DRESSING A DETECTIVE: THE ART OF CHARACTER FASHION

How Geography, Rain, and PNW Style Shape the Look of Sean "Mick" McPherson

There are so many fascinating layers to building a story from scratch. One of my absolute favorite stages is the initial character conception. I love diving deep into their psychology—mapping out how they think, how they speak, and the unique rhythms of their voice. I find myself asking endless questions: Are they a dog person or a cat person? What comfort food do they crave? What hobbies keep them up at night?

But one of the most revealing details is always their wardrobe. How a character dresses tells the reader exactly who they are before they even speak. Of course, style is heavily dictated by geography. You can’t wear a beachside linen shirt when you are battling the elements of the mountains.

This is especially true for Sean "Mick" McPherson. Mick lives at a writing retreat tucked away on a thickly wooded property in Bellingham, Washington, right on the edge of Bellingham Bay. In the Pacific Northwest, fashion isn't just about aesthetics—it’s about survival. For most of the year, the weather is cold, windy, and relentlessly rainy.

Mick’s look reflects that rugged, functional Pacific Northwest vibe. Think layers that can withstand a sudden downpour, sturdy boots built for muddy trails, and heavy jackets that look just as natural in a local coffee shop as they do on a misty shoreline. His clothes are practical, timeless, and uniquely tied to the landscape he calls home.

What about you? When you read a novel, do you pay attention to what the characters are wearing?