Planning your look for a murder mystery night? Getting your hair and makeup right can be the secret weapon that truly brings your character to life, no matter how complex of a character it is!

Here’s how to channel the drama, fun, and flair of your character without spending hours in front of the mirror (unless you want to, of course)

💇‍♀️ 1. Match the Era, Not Just the Outfit

Your costume might say “Hollywood starlet,” but it’s the vintage waves, red lips, and dramatic lashes that sell the fantasy.

Here are a few hair cues by era:

• 1920s Gatsby Glam: Soft finger waves, faux bobs, and sparkly headbands. (Tip: Use a curling wand or triple barrel, mist it with setting spray and scrunch to mimic structured waves.)
  
• 1950s Rockabilly: Victory rolls or a classic ponytail with a voluminous curl. Pair with classic red lipstick and cat-eye liner.
  
• 1970s Disco Diva: Think big curls, curtain bangs, and loads of volume. Don’t forget the extra glitter.
  
• 1980s Pop Queen: Teased hair, crimping, and side ponytails. More is more.
  

If you’re not sure where to start, this is where professional hair can save the day, many hair salons offer quick party styling for events just like these.

💄 2. Go Bold or Go Home (It’s a Party, After All)

This isn’t the time for your everyday mascara. Amp it up with character-focused beauty details:

• For Villains & Vamps: Smoky eyes, dramatic contour, and bold brows.
  
• For Innocents & Heiresses: Soft blush, rosy lips, and glowing skin.
  
• For Detectives & Spies: Keep it mysterious – think matte tones, subtle shadow, and a strong eyeliner wing.
  

Pro tip: Use setting spray and long-wear products to keep your look intact through hours of clue-solving.

🎭 3. Accessories Are Everything

Hair accessories can help transform your everyday style into character magic:

• Pearl clips or feathered headbands for vintage characters.
  
• Bandanas or neon scrunchies for ‘80s icons.
  
• Berets, fedoras, or detective-style hats for mysterious sleuths.
  

✨ 4. Don’t Forget the Details

Sometimes, the smallest beauty decisions make the biggest impact. Think about your character’s persona: would they wear a bold fragrance? Dramatic nails? A signature hair color? You might want to:

• Add temporary hair color spray for a fun, commitment-free pop of personality
  
• Match your nail polish to your character’s vibe (deep red for a femme fatale, glitter for a disco queen)
  
• Apply a little shimmer to the collarbones and shoulders for extra glamour
  

These tiny touches help you step out of the everyday and fully into your role.

👯‍♀️ 5. Make It a Group Effort

Heading to a party with friends? Planning your looks together can be half the fun. Book a group hair and makeup session at your local salon and turn it into a mini pre-party. Some stylists even offer mobile services so they can come to you while you sip champagne and get in the mood for mystery.

If your group is playing characters from the same era or theme (e.g. roaring ’20s or ’80s pop icons), coordinated hairstyles can make your entrance even more striking.

Even a single accessory can tie your whole look together and make you feel instantly in character.

👏 Bonus Tip: Book a Pre-Party Style Session

If your regular curling iron won’t cut it (or you’re short on time), consider a quick salon visit. A professional hairdresser can:

• Create a hairstyle that matches your costume’s theme.
  
• Add braids, volume, or curls that last all night.
  
• Help you look and feel your character from the minute you walk in.
  

Some salons even offer express party styling or themed hair-and-makeup packages-  perfect for groups heading to a mystery party together.

So, Who Will You Be?

A seductive spy? A roaring ‘20s flapper? A no-nonsense detective with perfect eyeliner? Whatever your role, your hair and beauty look will help set the stage.After all, the clues might be fake, but the glamour? Totally real.