So you’ve been invited to a jungle-themed murder mystery game night. You’re excited. You’re intrigued. But you’re also staring at your closet wondering, “Is this a cargo pants situation… or can I just wear green and call it a day?”

Whether you’re attending The Emerald Expedition or another jungle-inspired mystery game, what you wear helps set the tone—and unlocks some serious fun. Here’s your definitive guide to dressing for danger, discovery, and possibly a little light backstabbing (in character, of course).

Start with the Vibe: What Kind of Jungle Are We Talking About?

Not all jungles are created equal. Some parties lean realistic (think mud-stained explorers and mosquito nets), while others channel movie-style glamour with perfectly tousled hair and spotless safari boots.

Ask your host what kind of tone they’re going for. If they don’t specify, check out their invite or the event page for clues. If they’re using The Emerald Expedition, the theme leans “Indiana Jones meets classic adventure serial”—which means you’re free to go bold, vintage, or slightly ridiculous (in the best way).

Option 1: Go Full Explorer Mode

Want to commit? Here’s your jungle party starter pack:

• Khaki shirt or vest with lots of pockets (bonus if you actually fill them with “ancient” maps and fake snakes.. little ones.. a fake anaconda would be weird)
• Cargo pants or shorts—because mystery solving requires mobility
• Sturdy boots or hiking shoes (don’t worry, you won’t need to outrun a boulder… probably)
• Accessories like a wide-brimmed hat, compass, leather satchel, or binoculars

This look works great for characters like expedition leaders, survivalists, big-game hunters, or treasure seekers. If your host gave you a character bio, build around that. If they didn’t, no one ever regrets dressing like they’re ready to dodge booby traps.

Option 2: Jungle Chic (Yes, That’s a Thing)

Maybe you want a little style with your storytelling. Jungle chic blends adventure aesthetics with a dash of flair:

• Animal prints (subtle or loud—your call)
• Linen shirts or jumpsuits in earthy tones
• Gold or wood accessories—think “I discovered this in a temple, but make it fashion”
• Strappy sandals, faux-leather boots, or barefoot gladiator vibes

This style works well for characters like journalists, treasure hunters with a flair for the dramatic, or even mysterious linguists fluent in ancient texts. And if you’re playing someone like Rosetta Stone or Penny Press from our jungle mystery, you’ve got full license to glam it up while staying on-theme.

Option 3: Low-Key, On-Theme

Not everyone wants to go full cosplay, and that’s totally okay. You can still be in-theme with minimal effort:

• Wear greens, browns, or tan tones—think “forest floor” or “canopy chic”
• Add a single accessory like a fake snake bracelet, leaf-patterned scarf, or explorer’s notebook
• Repurpose Halloween costume bits—pirate pants, safari hats, or anything vaguely exotic-looking
• Clip-on name tag with your character’s name (especially helpful for guests going low-effort)

A little goes a long way. The goal is to support the setting without adding pressure. If you’re unsure how far to go, share this costume guide with fellow guests so everyone’s on the same page.

What to Avoid (Unless It’s a Joke)

There’s a fine line between clever and confusing. Here’s what to maybe skip—unless you’re intentionally going for laughs:

• Head-to-toe camo—your character might disappear mid-game
• Actual expedition gear with 20 pounds of utility clips—save your back
• Anything offensive or culturally appropriative (skip the tribal face paint and focus on fictional flair)
• Clothes that can’t handle sitting, standing, and dramatically gasping

The best outfit is the one you can move, snack, and sleuth in.

For Kids and Family-Friendly Games

If you’re attending a kid-friendly version of the mystery—like a toned-down jungle quest—keep it simple and fun:

• Let kids wear explorer hats, binoculars, or animal ears
• Make a craft station where they can decorate their own “field guide”
• Use face paint to draw vines or bug bites (with parent approval)

Costumes should never become a barrier to fun—especially for younger players. Let the imagination do the heavy lifting.

Group Coordinated Looks (If You’re Extra Like That)

Want to show up as the most coordinated camp on the expedition? Get a group theme going:

• One person is the expedition leader, others are crew
• Family groups can match by color or role (botanist, hunter, mapmaker, chef)
• Friends can each represent a different part of the jungle (flora, fauna, predator, explorer)

You don’t have to go this far. But if you do… expect compliments. Lots of them.

Last-Minute Outfit Rescue Plan

Totally forgot until an hour before the party? Here’s what to grab in five minutes:

• Green or khaki shirt (bonus if it has buttons or pockets)
• Brown pants or jeans
• Any kind of hat (especially wide-brimmed)
• Sunglasses and a “serious explorer face”

Print out a fake map or glue some string to a stick and call it a jungle tool. You’re in.

Final Thoughts: Your Outfit Sets the Tone

You don’t need a Hollywood budget to dress the part. In fact, most of the charm comes from guests getting into character using what they already have. Whether you’re a hat-wearing treasure hunter or a botanist in Birkenstocks, your outfit brings the jungle to life.

If you’re hosting, check out our guide on how to host a jungle mystery night—it includes decor tips, menu ideas, and ways to set the scene so your guests feel immersed even before they arrive.

And remember: the best jungle mystery party outfit is one you can laugh, snack, and accuse people in. Choose wisely—and don’t forget to watch your back.

For more dress code tips, see our guide to costume expectations so your guests don’t overthink (or underdress) their big debut.