What to Wear to a Murder Mystery Night in New Orleans (and Why It Matters)

Because nothing says “innocent” like sequins and a suspicious alibi.

So, you’ve scored tickets to a murder mystery night in New Orleans. First of all: excellent choice. You’re about to step into a world of jazz, deception, and theatrical mischief. But before you start accusing strangers of murder over cocktails, let’s address the most important question of the night:

What are you wearing?

This isn’t just a party—it’s a performance. And in a city like New Orleans, showing up underdressed to a murder is the real crime.

🎩 Dress the Part, Play the Part

Murder mystery shows aren’t passive entertainment. You’re not just watching—you’re in it. Whether you're a shady speakeasy owner or a scandalous socialite, how you dress sets the tone for your character and boosts the immersion for everyone around you.

Pro tip: The more effort you put into your look, the more people assume you're either guilty... or fabulous.

🕵️‍♀️ Theme Check: Know Your Era

At Killer Theater NOLA, many of our shows are set in the Roaring Twenties—aka the golden age of jazz, bootlegging, and dramatic eyeliner. Here’s how to nail the look without needing a costume designer on speed dial:

For the Ladies:

Flapper dresses with fringe or sequins
Feathered headbands, long pearl necklaces, and opera gloves
Bonus points for a faux fur stole and a secret motive

For the Gents:

Three-piece suits, suspenders, and wingtip shoes
Fedoras or newsboy caps (no baseball hats, we beg you)
Add a pocket watch or fake cigar for full mobster vibes

For the Bold:

Detectives, divas, and double-crossers—don't be afraid to get theatrical. If you’ve always wanted to wear a monocle, this is your moment.

💃 But Make It NOLA

This is New Orleans, after all. Expect a little extra flair. Think:

Glitter, feathers, rhinestones (murder, but make it fashion)
Bold makeup, dark lips, dramatic eyes
That vintage velvet number in the back of your closet? This is its time to shine.

Remember, in New Orleans, more is more—and subtlety is suspicious.

🧥 Layers of Mystery

Don’t forget practicality. New Orleans weather is a mystery of its own. It could be balmy, breezy, or both. A lightweight shawl, capelet, or trench coat can double as costume and cover.

Also: pockets. Pockets are perfect for clues, lipstick, or mysterious handwritten notes you dramatically pass across the table.

🎭 Why It Matters

Immersion: Dressing up makes the experience feel real—for you and everyone else.
Confidence: Costumes give you permission to be bolder, sassier, and suspiciously over-the-top.
Photos: Let’s be honest—you’re going to want evidence of how good you looked when you falsely accused your best friend.
Plot Twists: Sometimes, the most glamorous guest has the darkest secrets...

🔪 Final Look: Killer Style Meets Killer Theater

At the end of the day, what you wear to a murder mystery night is about more than style. It’s your entrance into a world of drama, danger, and delight. Whether you’re rocking vintage elegance or full-on theatrical flair, dress like the plot depends on it—because it just might.

And remember: Innocent people don’t usually wear that much sparkle.

🎟️ Ready to dress to kill?

Join us at Killer Theater NOLA every Saturday night at The Maison on Frenchmen Street—costumes encouraged, secrets expected, and murder... inevitable.