You’ve picked the perfect murder mystery game. You’ve got the character names, the backstory, and maybe even a suspiciously specific prop that smells like gunpowder. Now comes the question every host eventually asks:

Should I make my guests wear costumes?

Let’s be honest—costumes are awesome. But they can also be intimidating, especially for first-timers or that friend who thinks “creative dress” means clean jeans. So how do you strike the right balance between immersive fun and low-pressure vibes? Here’s how to decide if you should go full masquerade… or let people wear whatever doesn’t wrinkle in the car.

First, Consider Your Group

Every group has its own flavor. Your book club that lives for Jane Austen retellings? They’re already checking Pinterest for Edwardian hats. Your brother-in-law’s bowling team? Not so much. Think about:

• Age range: Are there kids or teens who love dress-up? Older folks who might not want to fuss?
• Personality mix: Is your crowd made of theater kids or engineers? Extroverts or introverts?
• Previous experience: Have they done a murder mystery before or is this their first foray into theatrical deception?

Start with your guests, not just the theme. The goal is to make the night memorable—not stressful.

Option 1: Go Full Costume (for Maximum Fun)

If your group’s up for it, themed costumes can be incredible. Not only do they make the photos pop, but they also help everyone slip into character faster. When you hand someone a whip and a wide-brimmed hat, they don’t need much coaching to become a treasure hunter. Just ask anyone who’s played The Emerald Expedition.

In one playthrough, we had a stuffed snake (who knew they made snake stuffed animals? But our son ended up in the ER, as boys do, and they gave it to him) that one gentleman ended up using as a scarf, basically. He kept it wrapped around his neck the whole time. He was the hunter character, so I guess he counted it as a trophy.

When you go full costume, set your guests up for success. A few tips:

• Include costume ideas in your invitations—just a sentence or two is enough.
• Share simple inspiration: “Think safari chic,” or “Channel your inner 1930s train passenger.”
• Tell them it doesn’t have to be fancy. Accessories and vibes go further than exact replicas.

Many hosts even print out character cards ahead of time so guests can build their costume around it. (Hint: Every Megan’s Mysteries kit includes printable bios to make this easy.)

Option 2: Casual Dress Code with a Thematic Twist

Maybe your guests are less “costume box” and more “comfy shoes.” You can still set a great tone without going full theater production. Try:

• Encouraging everyone to wear a specific color palette (e.g., earth tones for a jungle theme, black-and-gold for a masquerade).
• Offering optional props at the door—scarves, hats, fake mustaches, or clip-on name tags.
• Having a themed backdrop or setting so even if they’re in regular clothes, the atmosphere still carries the night.

This option is perfect for family-friendly events or last-minute gatherings. Want ideas that strike the right balance? Check out the built-in guides in The Grand Gilded Express or Emerald Expedition. Both include party tone suggestions with or without costumes.

Option 3: Mixed Expectations (If You Dare)

We’re not saying it can’t work… but when half your guests show up in suspenders and fake blood while the other half are in Old Navy hoodies, it gets awkward fast.

If you must go mixed mode (maybe you’re hosting a large or open-invite event), make the expectations super clear. For example:

• “Costumes encouraged but totally optional—come however you’re comfortable!”
• “Dress code: Think ‘Indiana Jones meets the Jungle Cruise’—hats welcome, khakis not required.”

Then make sure you lead by example. Guests will look to the host to set the tone, so whatever you wear will define the vibe more than any printed invitation ever could.

Bonus Tips for Costume Success

Whether you go all-in or just dabble in accessories, here’s how to make sure costumes elevate the night instead of killing the mood:

• Keep it comfortable: If it itches, pinches, or causes heatstroke, no one’s having fun.
• Have extras: A basket of scarves, sunglasses, or costume jewelry can help underdressed guests jump in.
• Stay flexible: Some people will bring their A-game; others will bring the energy. Both are welcome.

What We Do at Megan’s Mysteries

All of our printable murder mystery games come with flexible design in mind. Whether your party is full of budding actors or just folks who love a good whodunnit, you’ll get:

• Detailed character bios to help with costume inspiration
• Theme-based suggestions for decor and tone
• Clear, optional guidance for dress codes

We’ve hosted jungle explorers, 1930s train passengers, and wild west outlaws—and each party had a unique energy because the tone was set early. This guide on hosting a jungle-themed mystery is a great place to see that in action.

The Bottom Line

Costumes can make a mystery night magical—but only if your guests are in on the fun. There’s no “right” level of dress-up, only what fits your crowd. So whether they come in thrifted tuxedos or T-shirts with paper name tags, your job is simple: give them a story worth stepping into.

And if you’re still not sure? Go halfway. Pick a theme, add a few props, and let the mystery do the rest.

Need help choosing the perfect murder mystery for your group? Head to our blog for themed hosting tips, party ideas, and more.