How To Dress Like Jessica Fletcher From ‘Murder, She Wrote’
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You know those old favorite tv shows that immediately put you in a state of cozy happiness? Well, Murder, She Wrote is one of those for me. Sure, the topic doesn’t necessarily shout “cozy,” but I assure you, time spent in the world of the inimitable J.B. Fletcher (played to perfection by the late Dame Angela Lansbury) is just that.
A former high school English teacher turned world-renowned mystery writer, J.B. (Jessica Beatrice) has a level head, an observant eye, and unimpeachable manners. Far from being cold and formal, her warm demeanor and “nosy aunt” habits are often what help her dig up clues to solve mysteries all over the globe. Every time I watch, I wind up fantasizing about being as gracious, charming, talented, and stylish as Jessica.
Yes, stylish! If your impression of J.B. is “80’s grandmotherly,” you’ll have to look again. Not only do her international engagements require some pretty stunning frocks, Jessica’s day-to-day looks are made up of classic pieces and chic accessories, all made to seem totally effortless. In fact, with a few updates to cuts, many of her outfits stand the test of time. Mimicking her style is definitely the easiest way to follow in my heroine’s footsteps, so here are a few outfits that work for everyday life as well as solving a mystery or two.
Look 01 | Cozy WFH
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Even in an age well before Zoom meetings, J.B.’s work-from-home style is the perfect balance of comfortable and put-together. Follow suit in a tone-on-tone oversized popover and soft flannel. Khakis and sneakers will have you ready to pop out the door to walk out a knotty plotline—or to problem-solve with the local sheriff—in a jiff.
Get the look:
Look 02 | New England Coastal
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One of my favorite parts of the show is seeing snaps of life in Cabot Cove, the fictional Maine town where J.B. (or Jess, as she’s known to her friends there) has lived for 30+ years. A true “Downeaster,” Jess knows how to appreciate traditional New England activities, like boating in the harbor for fish and lobster! If you’re land-locked, think of this as a sunny and stylish way to keep the rain at bay.
Get the look:
Look 03 | Pedal Pusher
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Just because you’re riding your bike doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style! One of Jessica’s quirks is her lack of (and lack of interest in) a driver’s license, so we often see her pedaling into Cabot Cove for errands - or, more likely, a chat with her good friend Doc Hazlitt. Fend off the breeze in a chunky cardigan and go with skinny jeans to stay out of the bike chain. Sporty trainers complete the look.
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Look 04 | Chic Sleuth
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What good detective would be without a classic trench coat? Initially designed to withstand the elements, the androgynous style makes it ideal for poking around without being recognized. Take a page from J.B.’s file and pair it with a silk scarf — a gorgeous accessory that can cover your head in a pinch, from mist and wind or from prying eyes.
Get the look:
