There’s something fun about dressing for a Hollywood-themed party – it gives everyone permission to turn things up a little. The right costume doesn’t try to make you an A-lister; it simply sets a mood. Confident. Polished. Just dramatic enough. And whether you’re heading to a red-carpet birthday, a themed work event, or hosting our very own Homicide in Hollywood murder mystery, choosing a look with intention helps shape the whole evening.
The costume ideas below are all curated Amazon picks with reliable reviews and quick delivery, so you can avoid rummaging through chaotic party stores. Each outfit also happens to pair neatly with one of the characters from our Hollywood murder mystery game. Even if you’re not playing the game, these looks work beautifully for any glitzy, old-school Hollywood vibe you’re aiming for.
Glamour & Red-Carpet Icons
Hollywood royalty isn’t subtle - and these outfits embrace that. Think sweeping gowns, iconic silhouettes and the kind of dramatic styling that looks just as good in photos as it does under party lights.
1. Chiffon-Sleeve Hollywood Evening Gown
Why we love it: This gown captures the kind of elegance that doesn’t need sequins to make an entrance. The chiffon sleeves add soft movement and the wrap-style bodice flatters without feeling fussy. It’s glamorous, but in a way that feels controlled and intentional.
Finish the look: Loose waves or a sleek bun, a delicate bracelet, and a slim evening clutch. A muted red or plum lip keeps the look classic without overshadowing the gown.
Great for: Camilla Rose - poised, composed and always camera-ready. This is the dress someone chooses when they know the room will be watching.
2. Silver-Screen Icon Halter Dress
Why we love it: This Marilyn-inspired halter dress leans fully into Hollywood drama. The sweeping pleats, bold neckline and bright white fabric are intentionally attention-grabbing. It’s playful, glamorous and perfect for guests who enjoy a high-impact silhouette.
Finish the look: Soft curls or a pinned faux bob, strappy heels and a touch of highlighter along the shoulders. Add pearl studs or a crystal clip if you want a little extra “spotlight-ready” shimmer.
Great for:
- Daisy Dior, who leans into glamorous perfection.
- Sophie Rose, who always finds her light.
- Lyric Keys, whose stage presence translates naturally onto any red carpet.
Directors, Reporters & Studio Power Players
Not every Hollywood role involves a glittering gown - some rule from behind the scenes, and their outfits should feel authoritative, stylish and unmistakably industry.
3. Press Pass Reporter Set
Why we love it: This journalist kit provides the finishing touches that make Drew unmistakably press - a prop microphone, press badge, glasses frame and cap. Perfect for guests who want the fun of dressing up without committing to a full outfit.
Finish the look: Pair with a blazer, button-down shirt or even a neat knit top. Add a notebook for bonus immersion.
Great for: Drew Daily - who spends the night gathering intel and stirring the pot with charm disguised as curiosity.
4. Vintage Hollywood Tuxedo
Why we love it: A classic tux with tails - sharp, dramatic and perfect for a director or old school industry veteran. The silhouette is instantly recognisable and looks great in photos, even if the character is feeling the pressure of the spotlight.
Finish the look: Slick hair, polished shoes and a confident walk. Add a prop cane or old-film clapperboard if you enjoy thematic details.
Great for: Loui Luhrmann - dramatic and flamboyant. If played by a man, this tux hits the right old-Hollywood director vibe. If played by a woman, look for an equally bold, tailored tux or statement suit to capture Loui’s flair.
5. Kingpin 3-Piece Suit
Why we love it: This three-piece suit nails polished entrepreneur energy. It's clean, sophisticated and comfortable enough for a multi-hour party.
Finish the look: Pocket square, subtle cufflinks or a textured tie. A confident smirk helps.
Great for: Ash Avalon, ever-strategic, ever-composed - the kind of person who’d absolutely show up dressed to command attention without making a fuss. If a female guest takes the role, look for a sharp, fitted suit in a similar style to get that same executive presence.
6. Hollywood Heartthrob Casual Suit
Why we love it: A softer take on a suit - tailored, breathable, and effortlessly stylish. It walks the line between “industry royalty doing press” and “professional athlete caught off-duty on TMZ.” Very appropriate for a character who brings charisma more than formality.
Finish the look: Open-collar shirt, layered necklace and tousled hair. Sunglasses if you’re committing to the persona.
Great for: Nico Cruz, whose easy charm shines through with a look that’s polished but not overdone.
Subtle Looks for Understated Roles
Some Hollywood looks are quieter by design. These options keep things simple and believable, making them ideal for guests who prefer a more understated costume or want something they can build from pieces they already own.
7. Button-Down Vest Set
Why we love it: Clean, versatile and sharp without being flashy. This vest works over any shirt and gives just enough structure to feel put-together for a Hollywood event.
Finish the look: White or black button-down, rolled sleeves, understated tie. Works with jeans or slacks depending on how “dressed up” you want to be.
Great for: Jamie Cross - observant and quietly strategic. Ideal if Jamie is played by a man. If Jamie is played by a woman, use the women’s vest style below for a cleaner, more tailored take on the same waitstaff look.
8. Tailored Waistcoat (Women’s)
Why we love it: A beautifully fitted women’s vest that instantly elevates any shirt or blouse. It’s a clever way to build a character look without needing a formal suit or dress.
Finish the look: White button-down, slim trousers, light jewellery. Hair up or slicked back gives a strong, confident vibe.
Great for: Jamie Cross, if she’s being played as sharp-minded, tough and not easily distracted by the Hollywood circus.
9. Secret-Service Style Security Kit
Why we love it: The sunglasses, tie, badge and earpiece instantly communicate professional protector. It's simple and effective - and ideal for guests who want something low-effort.
Finish the look: Black blazer, black pants and hair neatly styled. Keep a neutral expression for authenticity.
Great for: Lex Hardy, who takes their job far more seriously than the chaos around them!
Final Thoughts
The fun of Homicide in Hollywood is that the story starts long before the first line is spoken. Camilla gliding in with red-carpet grace feels different to Drew flashing a press badge; Loui in a dramatic tux radiates a different energy to Nico in an effortless suit jacket. Those choices help guests click into character early, which makes the mystery feel richer once tensions rise!
When assigning hollywood roles, encourage guests to choose the outfit that matches how they want to play the night - glamorous, guarded, ambitious or quietly observant. Use these costumes as a starting point, then let everyone shape their character with hair, makeup, props and attitude.
Lights, camera… accusation!
