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Are you male or female?
For myself, I wear a wooden pocket watch much like this one: https://www.etsy.com/listing/182909065/black-walnut-wooden-pocket-watch?ref=sr_gallery_3&ga_search_query=wooden+pocket+watch&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=handmade
I took it off the chain and threaded it onto a leather strap; it goes around my neck and tucks into my bodice when I'm not looking at it. So far it hasn't shown any sign of damage from boobsweat...
I have a pair similar to the ones linked that I used for four years at Sherwood and TRF before upgrading to some Son of Sandlar boots. You should also grab a sporran for that kilt, and make sure you know how to wear the kilt properly - over your belly and should fall at the knee (source: am Scottish). I see way to many people wearing them too low, or worse too short and end up looking like a school girl cosplay ;) Rant aside, that'll be some nice garb, I do something similar on hot days
Cloaks are really easy to make if you want to learn how to sew.
However, just a quick search on Amazon brought up this which looks like a nice very modern lightweight jacket type.
I’m a big guy too. I bought these Dagorhir Renaissance Cotton Trousers off of Amazon and they worked out really well. The cuffed bottoms fit well into my boots. Medieval Ankle Banded Viking Dagorhir Renaissance Pirate Men's Cotton Trousers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CHJSRQL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_2VSFRTZ6D2CHCF7K2Q56?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Bodice chillers are the best! But they’re so expensive!! I went to a cigar store and bought a cheap cigar in an aluminum tube. That allowed me to get a giant one, which is key for getting ice in. Spent maybe seven dollars, but depending on busy size, something like this might work: JPSOR 15pcs 110ml Clear Flat Plastic Test Tubes 140 x 35 mm with Screw Caps and 1 Brush https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MYRB6VW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_BDQQ0RNNH40AHRKBFP3Q
Either way, the drink people usually fill you up with ice for free if you’re pleasant and tip occasionally. They’re a life saver. There’s nothing like ice against your sternum. It’s the most glorious feeling.
I know it seems counter-intuitive, but leather armor can often be nearly as expensive as metal armor. But hey, you don't need to be cap a pied in armor to get the point across! You could likely buy a reasonably serviceable breastplate and helmet on Amazon for less than $200.
Another possibility for the more budget conscious: start with just the helmet. Even if you don't have a stitch of armor otherwise, something like a Norman helmet instantly conveys who you are and what you're supposed to be. You're not just another berk with a sword--fighting is your job. That's what I do personally, and I was very surprised how many positive reactions I got from everybody. Armor is great, but a good helm really says it all!
> Create a uniboob using a frozen bottle of water! Half joking half serious. But flattening can happen from both directions and that would be a cool option.
Do not do this. Having ice that close to your heart can and has caused people to go into hypothermia in the middle of summer. Instead, a handkerchief, dipped in ice water, around the neck is refreshing. Also, a regular old handheld fan (A circular one like this) works wonders.
Glued to water shoes and blended into my legs with athletic tape and latex. Finally hair from my husky dog
Unfortunately I was not blessed with the talent to crafting things by hand. However, I posted the link to where I got this look below if you’re interested. 😇
https://www.amazon.com/frawirshau-Steampunk-Corset-Overbust-Halloween/dp/B08SJC4Q9Q?th=1&psc=1
Thank you so much! If there is an opportunity to walk around in cosplay or medieval wear I’m in. Also (I’ll let you in on a secret) I got everything you see here on Amazon. Since I can’t craft my own things Etsy and Amazon act as my saving grace. 😅 The link to the corset and skirt is down below. ✨
https://www.amazon.com/frawirshau-Steampunk-Corset-Overbust-Halloween/dp/B08SJC4Q9Q?th=1&psc=1 ~corset and high low skirt
I’m planning on making a cloak out of this wool blanket: https://www.amazon.com/Olive-Green-Retardant-Blanket-Military/dp/B00D1AJVHY/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_sspa?crid=33HPIPI6E6AQB&keywords=66+x+90+wool+blanket&qid=1665384682&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIyLjAwIiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&sprefix...
It’s not the color you were looking for but it’s an idea for how to get the fabric you want potentially cheaper
Something like this is an excellent start. I'd look at the outfits at the renn fest but, unless you absolutely LOVE it and have to have it, I would not buy this weekend. If you are still thinking about the item when you go on the 22nd, buy it then. Just be prepared to budget for about $200~$300 for a decent "base" outfit from the renaissance festival.
As for mens boots something along the line of these I wore something like these for years
I think the crepe stand is the best value for money food wise at MDRF. I almost always get one. You can get anything you want in them and most of them are around $8 to $10, and it could easily feed two people. The queue is usually kinda long and you might wait fifteen or so minutes, but you can people watch while you wait.
You may want to also invest in a large folding fan like this to keep you cool. Also works as a sun shade.
For clothes, Moresca is really popular. Their gear tends to set the fashion trends for the rest of the festival. (Fun fact: Renaissance festivals have fashion trends.) There's a hat shop called Tall Toad on the boardwalk that is leaving the festival after this season so you should definitely go check them out before it's too late! Their hats are pretty well made. Mine is.... about eighteen years old? I think? The only thing I've ever had to do for it is replace the feathers once.
Take a look at the design of this hard hat liner. It's probably overkill for your needs. But the basic design spreads the weight over your entire head. You can make something similar of canvas or leather straps and and use that to support the skull, then cover the support with the fur.
Check these out some of the fairy’s at so cal faire wear something like these (I believe theirs are custom made) https://www.amazon.com/Amazon-Essentials-Womens-Belice-Ballet/dp/B07PS6L6PK/ref=sr_1_26?crid=3OZRVSBMQ0QJF&keywords=mary+jane+flat&qid=1660094847&sprefix=Mary+Jane+Flat%2Caps%2C125&sr=8-26
You may also want a hand fan, a large one. Having your own personal breeze can be a godsend during the sweatier months. Something like this. A cup is also practical. Metal mugs are popular, and Target has some copper plated ones for a good price. My husband found a set of metal wine glasses at a thrift shop years ago so I have one of those on my belt too.
Non practical fun things to hang from belts: tails and furs, if you have no objections to having them. A shawl or scarf, especially with a fringe; thinner fabrics drape the best. Strings of beads and bells, which can also be made at home. A lot of people have strips of fabric displaying pewter pins, since it's not always feasible to wear them on your clothes. Now that I'm actively trying to think about it, I've realised I don't actually carry a lot of purely decorative things on my belt. Even though it easily weighs like ten pounds. 😅
I don’t have faire specific tips but I am a nanny who takes 3 under 3 outside to the park every single day regardless of heat!
I strongly suggest you buy a battery operated fan. For baby wearing, I absolutely love love love neck fans like this one - they look like headphones around your neck but it’s a fan! Especially if you’re going to have a cloth over baby’s head for sun protection, having that airflow right where baby is makes a world of difference.
For when baby is in the stroller, make sure you have a fan that clips onto the stroller! Do bring a charger with one of those battery recharger thingies (my brain is mush this week but you know what I mean) so you don’t run out of fan juice right at the hottest part of the day.
Make sure YOU stay hydrated and sunscreened!
And finally, consider bringing a spray bottle with water so you can spritz baby’s clothes with water if it gets really hot (and your own, hey, if it works it works!). Many babies don’t sweat very effectively, so they can be more vulnerable to heat than we are, so spritzing some water on them can give them the same benefit of evaporative cooling.
Most of all, have fun!! You’re going to have a great time!!
It depends on how much effort you want to put into your outfit. A basic pirate outfit isn't very hard to do. You take a "Renaissance Shirt". Which is usually a loose shirt/blouse with a V-neck that is tied with string. Example
Next is Breeches/Trousers. These are baggy pants that taper down to your calves or ankles. Example
After pants, I'd get a sash or belt...maybe even both. A sash is just fabric wrapped around your waist. You tie it off and have some of it dangle off to the side. With your belt, you can wear a modern belt. I'd find a cool pirate-themed belt buckle to replace the modern buckle.
Also, footwear. Wear boots if possible. Try to avoid modern-looking footwear. You can always cover them with spats or gaiters. Honestly, wear what is comfortable for you.
Don't buy boots specifically for the faire and wear them for the first time there. Comfort is better than having a great costume.
Hats...You can go with the classic bandana over the head. You can also buy yourself a tricorn or do both.
Lastly, accessories! Go crazy! Rings, necklaces, earrings, really anything shiny and fancy looking. Pirates stole and plunder! Show what you've scored by wearing it! Maybe even throw on a vest!
Don't worry about having a perfect costume. Find a few cool items and wear them! Make your own outfit!
For a man or a woman? A woman can ware low shine or cloth covered Maryjanes, where a man can ware something like these https://www.amazon.com/Deer-Stags-Greenpoint-Slip-Loafer/dp/B0051NGFUA/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1OM4BQNX79D57&keywords=Deer+Stags+Men%27s+Greenpoint&qid=1655347608&sprefix=deer+stags+men%27s+greenpoint%2Caps%2C337&sr=8-2 again low shine both with over knee socks
Not boots, but if you can find something like "Romeo" slippers that fit https://www.amazon.com/Tamarac-Slippers-International-Romeo-Loafer/dp/B004IYWU0M you can remove the elastic in the side cut-outs, and add leather "latchets" to them to look like period-style "latchet shoes" https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0252/6727/3790/products/mil413203b_2000x.jpg I was able to find some slippers at Good Will to do that.
PRICING: How do you set pricing if you've no experience to align your work to? We never sell what we are worth, compare with your competitors
CASH: Our was mostly cash until I got square and my partner did paypal/venmo.
PICTURES: I asked the customer and tell them I will tag them on Facebook/instagram. If they don't want the pic, that's okay too :) I've given away (cheaper) merch to kids but will blur the face or send the pic to their parents or have a waiver JIC which is win/win.
REFUNDS: If so then what did you do? Asked if they wanted an exchange or the cash. All things are written in a notebook, If someone is iffy on buying, will hold aside until a certain time to hold off "buyers regret" No issue with refunds, but if it's clear the item is abused, I won't sell to them again.
REGISTERED(?): At things like LARPS this may be okay but EVERY fair we do (especially craft fairs) need your vendor ID which can be as simple as your SS number if you are a fairly low-key businesss. Insurance, super important.
SIGNS: Our signs are all hand-painted cloth (and even on the tent) but if you are going to be at indoor events, a good vinyl sign is a good idea for a table. Get a sign that can handle the weather. This has been a good investment
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01NBG3QDF/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1
​
Best of luck!
Simplicity 9577 is close to that second dress. As for the third dress, that's a little tougher. The closest I could find is maybe Simplicity 2573.
The bodice and overskirt on mine are hand made, but I have purchased this bodice on Amazon and it is very nice. I've worn it a lot and it's reversible. It is very lightly boned, and that helps keep its structure. I've even worn it over my green dress before, and they pair well together. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SH3CBGI/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_VF0WVTP6NCQ78Z3JF747?psc=1
My overskirt is actually a pattern for an 18th century petticoat in linen. It's a great hobbitlike skirt. You could get one on Etsy probably if you didn't want to make yourself. I will say my green dress was a little long, I ended up tucking it to stay up under my petticoat, but it gave my outer skirt more body, so it worked out!
1 more benefit to an 18th century petticoat, is that I could wear my 18th century pockets underneath and didn't have to carry a purse!
That’s so prettyyyy!
Since it’s long, you probably don’t have to worry about whether or not your boots have side zippers, too, since no one will see them!
These are pretty similar to the ones I wore for a few years!
The most important thing is that they’re comfortable, so I highly recommend wearing them around the house for a day before deciding if you wanna keep em. Nothing ruins Ren fest like a heel full of blisters.
This is the shirt
Men's Fashion Cotton Linen Shirt Long Sleeve Solid Color Ethnic Beach Yoga Top https://www.amazon.com/dp/B096ZJ4Z4X/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_CFQ8SJVRW35HMT03BS8V?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
My error I was on Alibaba when I saw them
This had a minimun order of 25 so it wasn't too bad
http://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/WOODEN-BEER-MUG_50030291485.html?spm=a2700.7724838.0.0.PNMDl9
I liked this one better, but it was a 300 minimum order. Ever thought about opening a shop at the faire?
Not a bad choice at all. :-) I'd honestly use the tunic top of that pattern, make it white, and maybe take a length of plaid fabric to make a baby kilt? It makes it much easier for diaper changing.
I'm thinking something like this.
Thank you!
Someone inquired about it before you, I gave them the specs and am waiting to hear back form them. If that falls through I'll let you know - but I'll give you the info.
The women's Italian gown is by Lynn McMasters and has the gown, underskirt, hat, and matching girdle jewelry, necklace and earrings. I'd let that go for $300.
And here is another link to the Lynn McMasters Italian women's costume:
The waist size for that is about 30", the bust is about 38". This is also in terrific shape - it was only worn once.
I do have other gowns of various sizes I'll be listing soon. If you're interested I can send you pictures when they're ready (they need a little ironing from being put away for a couple seasons).
Thanks!
I just reeved these boots last week and they appear to be very well made. I've only walked around the house in them a bit, but the arch support is very good and these would be comfortable for all-day walking.
They do run small though. I wear a size 9-9.5 and bought a size 10 with the intent to put in foam/gel insoles. These are a good fit but no room for an insole.
These shipped from India and took about a month to arrive.
I got these boots for my husband, expecting them to last just long enough to get to the faire and buy higher quality ones. Surprisingly they have lasted 4 seasons and counting and he hasn't found any boots he likes better. Apparently they're quite comfortable.
Yes Layers! I have a particular skirt I love from Amazon, https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01EYHRI18/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 looks really good layered over a dress, I just did that for a Ren faire I went to, and a simple corset works well on top of that and belt, pouches, bags etc. A simple looking ren faire costume being, skirt, belt, dress or flowy top and a leatherish looked bag (:
Something like this is reasonably affordable, and looks the part. And linen handles high temps really well, for those hot faire days!
I never knew such a thing existed! This is where Reddit really shines, thanks so much!
Is this the kind of stuff you have used?
It would be pretty easy to hide a NeoPixel under the straps on the bottom to have a potion that shimmers and changes colors.
If worse comes to worst, get a copy of The Ditty Bag Book, learn to stitch canvas, and make your own.
Even if you find new walls elsewhere, it isn't a bad thing to be able to make on-site repairs.
Hi! Glad to hear you'll be doing your first garb! If I can make a suggestion- the step up from costume-y clothes and some better stuff is in my opinion is worth putting a little money into it. Mostly because of comfort and reusability factors.
For example I went with more affordable stuff the first time I went- it was a good time and I realized I wanted to so it again in following years. However my first garb was kind of uncomfortable because it wasn't very breathable, it shifted awkwardly throughout the day, when I washed it it didn't wash well, and once I started wanting to add accessories it wasn't great for building on top of. So I ended up starting from scratch (example) which meant what I spent the year prior was pretty much sunk.
If this may be your thing (i.e. You may want to go back more than once) or even if you might want to use it again for other costumed events (Halloween is always a great excuse to wear garb lol) get yourself a good base that will last you longer/feel good/you can add to. Or get stuff that you can wear in your everyday but can be dressed up to be fun garb (peasant blouses, a long flowy skirt, or a maxi dress in an earthy tone)! I think thrifting is a great idea too and you can always check out sites like Thredup for that stuff.
Hope this is helpful!
How much are you looking to spend? I have a very similar dress to this (link below). I bought mine on Amazon a few years ago, but the design looks the same. It would accommodate pregnant boobs/tummy without question. The under-dress (chemise?) is extremely loose. There are laces in front and back of the over-dress, so you can make the fit as loose as needed. Look at the review pictures of women wearing it - could definitely lace high in front so it doesn't interfere with your stomach at all.
https://www.amazon.com/Mythic-Renaissance-Medieval-Costume-Chemise/dp/B01DDC8EYK/
I wear moisture wicking headband and bandanna under mine helps out a lot. https://www.amazon.com/Value-2-Pack-Mens-Headband-Cross-Train/dp/B071S3VJZS/ref=mp_s_a_1_9?dchild=1&keywords=wicking+headbands+for+men&qid=1627401044&smid=A2GNZBLZXX41FW&sprefix=wicking+headband&sr=8-9
Thank you!! I am not 100% sure what the fabric is, I bought it over a year ago on clearance at Hobby Lobby. It’s heavy, I would look at upholstery or curtain fabrics! I think people also often use brocade. The inside lining is just cotton. The skirt and white underdress are both from Amazon! I highly recommend the skirt, I have it in a few colors! Here are the links in you’re interested: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06X9QM747/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_791MWJW0WQ0E3F38ZPMT?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Good luck!!
I used this: 50 Yards Polyester Boning for Sewing - Sew-Through Low Density Boning for Corsets, Nursing Caps, Bridal Gowns (6mm, White) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07T82R8DV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_0WR4239ZBHJ6V9HSYSY9?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
It’s very light weight but did help to add structure.
You could always Amazon a long dagger. Go for a hilt you like, MiRF requires weapons be peace-tied so it's never coming out of that sheath anyway.
My husband wears a long dagger we bought at faire from a blacksmith, but for the cost of a cheap one you can have the look you want and plan for the future when you're shopping there.
Example:
There are some fair options on amazon. These are what I've been wearing the past couple seasons. Good insoles are must, but they've held up surprisingly well to the dirt and mud. They come up to about mid-calf, so your hose and flashes will still show, which is nice.
Something that might help is the official TRF smartphone app. It is available for free on both iOS and Android.
It's not yet updated for this season, but once it is, it will have the schedules for all the performers and stages, and a map of the grounds. (Also the menus at all the food vendors, names and general categories of all the shops, etc.) You can then use it to help plan out your day in advance.
Such great answers! Thanks so much!
As far as bell sleeves, I was wondering about this:
I recently had this A-line, 2-hoop recommended to me by a seller. She makes and sells full renaissance skirts and corsets of pretty good quality, so I trusted her judgement.
I haven’t worn it long term yet (fair season begins next month for me) but it has an adjustable, tied waistline and held up decently while I ran around my apartment to test my costume.
I have a stainless steel I picked up at another faire, and then snagged a leather mug cover/lid from these guys earlier this year at the KY Highland faire. It's stainless, so you can toss it in the dishwasher or hand wash. I've dinged it in a few places, but it's still got character. I usually do cold drinks, but it can take hot drinks. I'm just a klutz and spill on myself since I walk and drink at the same time.
I have a fabric cover on a similar one for my spouse since he didn't like the look of all that brightness - it's more like the leather wrapped ones that Griffin Leather has but fabric over the metal.
If you want cheap and easy, amazon has some Peasant Dresses. Clothing from a faire is going to last a lifetime, but be very expensive. If you want to buy handmade, last-a-lifetime things rather than fall aparty stuff, I would google the Festival's website and check out their artisans. A lot of their artisans have either facebook pages, websites, or etsys.
I quickly checked amazon for a ballpark on what an actual metal axe would cost. Here's the cheapest but best looking one I could find.
search results in amazon for "Viking axe"
I'm usually the first to advocate for buying from local artists but this should get you started. You can always work your way up to a more complex set of gear if you continue to go. I started dressing up in 2007 and my first costume was from some cheap online store. I made due with what I had being a freshly graduated college kid. Now I've made dressing up in garb a regular hobby... It's a slippery but fun slope you're about to venture down. Good luck putting together your kit! I hope you love your time dressed at the fest. Hopefully we'll see you post again with an update.
Employed by the faire (The Renaissance Faire at Sleepy Hollow), definitely, at least as a volunteer. I've contacted who I thought was the owner and they forwarded my email to the current showrunners, apparently the faire is being run by a different company this year. So, I haven't heard back yet. I've already purchased a pack of Distressed Expert playing cards to see how they handle, which would be made more authentic if the number indexes were removed.