shanghai surprise

Marlene Dietrich in Shanghai Express, 1932

I've explained how "Where in the World Wednesday" works (I need a where and when from you), but here's my example. Recently I received an invite to attend my very first mystery party, a themed affair involving costumes and playacting. The title: "Missing Brushstrokes in Beijing." The scenario: "The US Ambassador to China and his wife invite you to a night of crime-solving adventure. Join us as we seek to uncover who has stolen a prized painting from the embassy, a gift from China's Paramount Leader..." How genius are my friends! The party's not for a few weeks, but it did get me thinking-- China, embassy, crime, political intrigue, hmmm... 

Where: The American embassy, Shanghai (because it conjures up more mystique for me than Beijing)
When: 1930s (was any era more glamorous?)

What: General Xiao Li has been murdered! (because my mind runs to violent crime?)

Who: a cast of Mystery Ladies, guests of the Ambassador, any one of whom could be a lethal murderess. (with a killer wardrobe to match!) Can you guess whodunit? Keep reading below to find out.



The gracious hostess Madam Ambassador mixed the drinks for the General. Did she stir in a little Poison?

The Maharani was not a woman easily scorned-- in business or in love.

Who was she, this scarlet-lipped Secret Agent? No one knew... except the General. And he's no longer talking.

Shanghai Lily and the General were old friends. Or deadly enemies. Now their relationship's gone up in smoke.

There you have it! Your "Where in the World Wednesday" outfit inspiration of the week: 1930s Shanghai, 4 variants. What's your flavour?? And more importantly, who's the murderer?! Would love to hear your thoughts below. :) xo.