Classic Medieval and Renaissance Costumes For Renaissance Fairs
by Susan West
Let us all be honest right now and admit the fact that we, as adults, still enjoy dressing up. The possibility of being someone else for a few hours is an exciting escape for the everyday mundane. Speaking of mundane, have you ever gone to a Renaissance Fair and seen all of the people dressed in medieval and renaissance garb? I am sure that if you have, you have also wandered into the shops there that sell the clothing. Yes, they are a bit pricey. The costumes themselves, though beautiful, dictate a certain attitude that should accompany the person wearing it.
Curious of the terminology that I am using, it comes from going to Renaissance Fairs. I say mundane, because that is what a person that is not in costume is called. They do not use the term costume either in reference to the medieval and renaissance clothing, it is called garb. It is also an interesting little factoid that half of the people that you see at such events do not work for the fair, they are average everyday people dressed up in renaissance and medieval costume to celebrate and take part in the ambiance of the era.
There are few times in history that mirror the dynamic era of the Renaissance. Actually, none equal this explosive time in creative discovery and social change. The middle ages are ripe with great costume potential. A medieval costume ranges from a daring knight, mystical wizard, simple servant girl, and not to forget the regal King and Queen.
Clothing or garb was a signal as to your social and economic status. Medieval costumes will range from ragged to quite elaborate, depending on society member imitated. As the medieval period lead the Renaissance clothing continued to signal societal status, but in general also took on more of an elegant air.
For example, if you were to wear a wench costume or servant girl, the general attitude that goes along with those costumes medieval or renaissance is still, shall we say scandalous. If you are going more the Maid Marian look, then demure and innocent, while Robin Hood would want a fearless and brave man. Deciding to take on the role of Merlin or other wizard then evokes mystery and power and possibly darkness.
If you ever get a chance to attend either a Renaissance fair or party do it! When else will you have the opportunity to truly be Queen for the day? In fact, why relegate yourself to a general costume? Why not go as Leonardo da Vinci or Michelangelo? That's the beauty of these fairs; you can be whomever you desire.
Word of warning ladies! Before you strap on that corset remember to take a big, deep breath. This will be your last until the corset comes of. Those Renaissance ladies were not naturally small waisted, oh no. This is how even the more plump ladies were able to achieve the coveted small waist. So make your costume comfortable. After all, the point is to have fun, right?!
Get started today and buy a renaissance costume or a medieval costume online. They are not just Halloween costume s but great items for the fair. Get your own completely unique content version of this article.
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