Purchasing proper renaissance garb can be expensive, and it's much more economical to make garb yourself. You can purchase a simple pattern, or simply let your imagination guide you.
1Research the fashion of the Renaissance so you can accurately copy the looks of the time period when making a costume.Ad
2Choose a time period and region. Most Renaissance fairs and festivals concentrate on England, France, or Italy.
3Decide your social rank and class. Renaissance clothing varied according to the social classes. Prices for making a Renaissance outfit will vary accordingly. Consider starting with a simple costume of a lower class or peasant person if this is your first attempt at making garb. They require less intricate sewing. Additionally, lower class outfits can be made with simple linen and few embellishments, while costumes of the upper or noble classes should be made with richer fabrics and more accessories.
4Utilize a premade pattern. Having a template or pattern to follow can be helpful, especially if you're making a costume for the first time. Purchase a pattern from a fabric or craft store or find one online at a specialty renaissance website.
5Purchase inexpensive accessories. Some elements of costumes, such as period-appropriate shoes, will be easier and less expensive to purchase than to try to recreate them yourself. Look at online Renaissance garb vendors or at costume shops for inexpensive pieces to complement your outfit.
6Reclaim clothing. Find over sized shirts and solid color floor length skirts from second hand stores. Bloomers can be made by sewing elastic into the bottom of cotton pants.
7Include under-layers. Men's and women's Renaissance costumes should include layers of under-clothing appropriate to the time period. This usually includes an undershirt to go under men's vests or coats and chemises and petticoats or under-dresses to go under bodices and skirts for women.
8Make a head covering. It was considered improper to be seen in public without a hat or head covering during Renaissance times, so be sure to include one when making your costume. Head coverings will vary from simple to elaborate depending on the social class you've chosen like the rest of your costume. Research popular hats and veils to create one that you like.
9Know your measurements. Some elements of Renaissance clothing,such as bodices and corsets, should fit snugly. Be sure to take measurements of your chest, bust, hips and waist before beginning to make your costume so it fits properly.Ad
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- It is wrong to call a Historical Re-enactor's clothing a costume. It's called garb.
- It is improper to confuse Renaissance with Medieval.
- Only royalty may wear purple.
- Don't wear printed fabric, as that wasn't invented yet. Neither were pockets.
- Sleeves are not attached to dresses. They tie or button on.
- Everyone needs belt and a hat.
- Corsets go on the 'inside', bodices are on the outside.
- Lace shirt fronts, waist clincher, three corner hats, and top hats are not period.
- Bright colors that are only made from synthetic dyes are not period.
- Many Renaissance fairs and festivals that are open to the public prohibit weapons or require them to be peace tied or covered with blade guards, even if they are part of a costume. Check to see whether you can bring weapons before you include them in your costume.
- Do not over tighten bodices and corsets. They are meant to shape, not constrict breathing.
Sources and Citations
- Work experience; Entertainer at a Renaissance Festival
Categories: Historical Costumes
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