by Tiffany Turner

Created on: February 20, 2007   Last Updated: March 04, 2011

Garbing for Renaissance Faire

So you want to dress for Ren. Faire and you don't know where to begin? Or maybe you want to join a guild, but don't know how to get started? Starting your costume for Renaissance Faire will get you noticed for guilds and start you on a path to the Renaissance Faire world. It is also a great way to join in on the fun at your local Faire. Here are some ways to help you find the right garb.

The Basics for Garbing Decisions

When trying to decide on a Renaissance costume, the best place to start is what class you intend to play. This will start building character and direct you to what costume pieces to invest in. Also, styles may vary for the kind of Renaissance Faire you may be attending. Faires now have English themes or Celtic Themes. English faires will have the style of 16th century England. Celtic or Scottish Faires will have Scottish and Irish dress as their garb. Class and the faire you attend can be a good starting point for any garb choice.

It All Comes Down to Class

The two main classes portrayed at Renaissance faires are peasantry and nobles. A peasant is your basic Renaissance costume found at most faires. It does vary on whether playing English/Irish/Scottish by what accessories you may have, but mostly there are some common pieces. I will divide this into the male and female categories.

Female Peasant Costume Pieces:
1) Chemise: The undergarment for the costume. Similar to a nightgown. They come in half size and full size. Half size is like a blouse, while full size is like a long nightgown.
2) Bodice: Similar to a corset but worn on the outside of the chemise. They are often laced and come in different colors and patterns.
3) Skirt: A basic cotton or linen skirt. Can be double layered.
4) Snood: This is a hair net that holds back your hair. Most faires are in the summer, and most US summers are hotter than the British summers. Having your hair up helps keep you cool.
5) Belt: Ren. belts have become specialized and have evolved to hold all your belongings as you walk about faire. Some can clasp, others pull through a loop. You can start with a regular leather belt from a thrift store or your closet to get started.
6) Pouch: A place to carry all those bothersome 21st century items. Pouches can be leather, velvet, or hand-sewn from material. A basket can be used instead of a pouch until you can make or purchase one. Any basket with a material napkin to cover the items can be used.
7) Cup: Faires are thirsty work. Mostly all the

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