Sunday, September 16, 2007

Classic Medieval and Renaissance Costumes For Renaissance Fairs

Classic Medieval and Renaissance Costumes For Renaissance Fairs
by Susan West

Remember those Renaissance fairs that the Jr. High would hold each year? The airy music and elaborate medieval costumes made for an interesting and creative atmosphere. Why not take a break from the everyday and visit a Renaissance fair as an adult? If you don't have a Renaissance costume, don't worry. The fair will have clothing shops that cater to people of all sizes and age. If anything, go into one of these shops just to enjoy the craftsmanship and intricacy of the beautiful garbs.
"Garb" is the official terminology used by Renaissance fans for anyone dressed in costume. Those that attend without costume are called "mundane." If attending your first Renaissance fair, you may be taken aback by the amount of people. These fairs are known to attract loyal visitors year after year. These regular, every day people enjoy taking a few days out of the year and "spicing it up" by donning a favorite Renaissance costume or medieval costume.
One of the biggest reasons for so many individuals to be attracted to medieval costumes and renaissance costumes is because of their origin in time. It is a moment in history when radical change was taking place. Beginning in the middle ages or the medieval era, Kings, Queens, knights, jesters, wizards and wenches come to mind. Though royal, they were not elegant, however a classical society.
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 instance, wearing a servant girl or wench costume lends an air, which is scandalous according to the costumes medieval or renaissance. On the other hand, the Maid Marian costume is more innocent and demure, while Robin Hood leans more to a brave and fearless man. Taking on the appearance of Merlin and other wizards brings power and ethereal wisdom to mind.
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.
I do want to caution the females though. There is nothing quite like having to wear a corset. Make sure you take a deep breath before being laced up, for it will be the last deep breath you take before you are unlaced. I do not believe that women in the Renaissance Era were ever able to breathe deeply until they went to bed. This explains the tiny waist even on larger women. Have some fun, and really play the part, dress it up in a medieval costume.

About the Author
Why wait, go out and purchase a renaissance costume or a medieval costume online. They are not just Halloween costume s but perfect for medieval gatherings.

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