When crafting a character, every detail matters—not just what they say or do, but what they wear. Style as subtext is so much more than fabric and fashion—it reveals personality, status, mood, and occupation. Even hidden truths. Regardless of the type of book you’re writing—a cozy mystery, a historical romance, or a modern thriller—your character’s wardrobe is one of the most powerful yet often overlooked tools in your writer’s toolkit.
Employ some of the following strategies and use your character’s clothing not only to illustrate who they really are but also hint as to what they may be hiding.
🌂 1. Personality on Display
If your character is of the practical and no-nonsense variety, consider outfitting them in good practical shoes or sturdy boots. Keep their wardrobe in neutrals or muted colors. Cardigans are perfect for layering.
If, on the other hand, they are flamboyant and fearless, think of bold patterns and bright colors. A rebellious teenager might wear ripped jeans, eclectic earrings, or t-shirts featuring social commentary.
Remember that the way you dress your characters tells readers something about them before they ever say a word.
Tip: You don’t need to describe every item in a character’s wardrobe. Focus on distinctive details, such as Michelle’s worn leather bag or T.J.’s meticulously ironed shirts. A well-chosen detail can convey a great deal about a character.
🔐 2. Hiding in Plain Sight
Do you want to hide something about your character, such as insecurities or a hidden past? Clothing can be a clever tool.
- Oversized layers can provide a sense of invisibility.
- Is your character insecure? Have them overcompensate by always wearing perfectly styled outfits.
- Someone who always dresses in sequins and heels might be masking financial difficulties.
Changes in clothing choices can also signal shifts in a character’s emotional state—think about how revealing it would be if T.J.’s usual crisp shirts were suddenly replaced with disheveled attire, indicating a potential struggle with depression.
🛍️ 3. Occupation, Status, and Setting
Clothing is a straightforward way to reveal to readers a character’s job or social class.
- A college student might have ink smudges on their fingers.
- A wealthy socialite is always dressed in the latest Parisian fashion trends.
- A bakery owner might don a uniform for the job but always wears a meaningful necklace with it.
These details root the reader within your story and illustrate how your characters navigate their worlds.
⚡ 4. Mood and Motivation
What a character wears gives insight into their mood.
- A woman in mourning may dress entirely in black.
- A person eager to make a good impression might overdress for a casual gathering.
- A nervous journalism student could rely on a “lucky sweater” before an important interview.
Alter a character’s attire to convey a change in their mood or a significant change in their life.
🕵️♀️ 5. Clothing as a Clue
The fun thing about mysteries is that clothing choices can go beyond personality insights—they can be part of the plot.
- A missing button from a suspect’s coat.
- A scarf made from a particular fabric in a distinctive color.
- A character suddenly changes their style in an attempt to disguise themselves.
Think of these fashion elements as subtle breadcrumbs that enhance your narrative.
🌟 Final Thoughts
As powerful as style as subtext can be in shaping your characters and telling their stories, avoid information dumps by only mentioning details that are pertinent to the narrative. Use your clothing choices to enrich context and add depth to your scenes. Your readers will thank you.
