Showing posts with label renaissance costumes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label renaissance costumes. Show all posts

Sunday 9 December 2012

Era of Tudors - Golden Era with Both Negative and Positive Sides


Era of Tudors

The era of Tudors – there is no doubt that it is accepted as one of the golden ages of England. The Tudor dynasty ruled the nation for the long duration of 118 years.

When we pay heed towards the era of Tudors, we find the mixed traits, which were both positive and negative. The most positive thing during that era was the beginning of the renaissance age in England. It was the era when a great flourish in the cultural activities was witnessed not only in England, but in the entire Europe. Science and arts flourished, which paved the way for the modern era. The prominent thing that put the influence on the modern times is the renaissance clothing. This was the new age clothing, in which a lot of flamboyance was added.

In addition, some new style dances and music styles also came in the limelight as a result of the artistic development. Volta and galliard were two famous renaissance dances. Samples of the Volta dances have been given in the two such films – “Elizabeth” and “Elizabeth: The Golden Age”.

In addition, paintings and architectures were also flourished up to some extent, and the role of Tudor monarchs can also not be denied in this regard. King Henry VIII’s interest in architecture is well-known. His daughter, Queen Elizabeth I had her own collection of paintings.

But, there is no doubt that the era of Tudors had some negative sides also. The most negative side was witnessed at the time of Queen Mary I. Queen Mary was a devout catholic and was desperate about reestablishing the catholic faith in England. She not only showed the strictness, but also burnt the innocent Protestants in stakes. It made the queen highly unpopular and gave a bad name to the Tudor dynasty. Mary was dubbed as “Bloody Mary” for this act.

With the end of the era of Queen Mary, the dark era of Tudor dynasty ended and Queen Elizabeth gave the equal respect to both the faiths during her reign. Moreover, she encouraged the art and culture and was also a great fond of fashion. The flamboyant renaissance costumes worn by her were widely popular. Her dresses were beaded by the ornaments. The dresses of the Queen Elizabeth are popular today also and are worn by the brides as the wedding gowns. These costumes are also put on by a lot of people in the themed events.

The era of Tudors will definitely be popular up to the coming scenario.

Thursday 29 November 2012

Anne Boleyn - Tudor Queen Who Ruled the Hearts of Modern People



English history is full of mysteries, and there are a number of facts, which are still the subject of research. Anne Boleyn, the queen consort of King Henry VIII of England, is one of the famous names that we can take as an example in this regard. She was the second wife of the king and was recognized as a key figure of English Reformation after her marriage and subsequent execution. The era of English Reformation was the time, when England progressed in various fields, such as art, culture, medieval costumes and more.

But, the word ‘reformation’ refers to the religious reformation against the dogmatism of Roman Catholic Church during that period. First, the king broke with Church of Rome in order to marry her and declared himself the head of Church of England. In this way, Anne indirectly contributed in reformation. Moreover, she was an open minded lady, which can be estimated with the fact that she argued to distribute the revenues to the charitable and educational institutions instead of giving them to church. She made this argument to Thomas Cromwell, 1st Earl of Essex. It is claimed that Thomas conspired against Anne because of his dispute with her.

Anne Boleyn born in the year 1501, and was the daughter of Thomas Boleyn, 1st Earl of Wiltshire, and his wife Lady Elizabeth Howard. She got the education in Netherlands and France, and returned to England in the year 1522 for marrying her Irish cousin, James Butler, 9th Earl of Ormond. But, the plans of her marriage with James failed, and she found the place as maid of Honor to Henry VIII’s first queen consort, Catherine of Aragon. In the year 1523, there was a secret betrothal between her and Henry Percy, son of the fifth Earl of Northumberland. But, the betrothal was broken in 1524, and she was sent back home to Hever Castle. King Henry tried to seduce her, which was one of the absorbing factors for his desire to marry her.
King annulled his marriage his first queen for marrying Anne. Roman Catholic Church declared it as illegal, but the king broke his relations with the church and declared himself the head of Church of England. There is no doubt that it seems that the relation was broken because of the selfish motive of the king. Still, it put some great impacts on the nation. He married Anne on 25th January 1933. She gave birth to Elizabeth on 7th September and could not give birth to son.

The relation of the two could not be continued for the long. She was found guilty for high treason in April 1536. Moreover, she was also accused of adultery and incest. There were no sufficient evidence found against her, but still she was beheaded on 19th May, 1536.

Despite the small time span of her existence as a queen, she became widely popular in England. Her renaissance clothing styles are copied by women in today’s scenario also. Moreover, some films have also been made on her biography. Interestingly, some researchers of occultism claim the existence of the ghost of Anne today also.

Wednesday 14 November 2012

Communities of the Renaissance Age and Their Lifestyles



The renaissance age in Europe is undoubtedly an unforgettable era for the people of the western world. It was the era, when a great cultural and artistic rebirth was witnessed in the society. A stunning evolution took place in various fields, such as paintings, sculptures, renaissance costumes and so on. Besides, the lifestyles of that era became the source of inspiration of the modern times also.

An interesting thing about that era was that it was full of diverse cultures. A number of cultures were present during that period, which had their unique lifestyles. The commoners of that era used to constitute the mainstream society. Besides, the communities of serfs, royals/nobles/aristocrats and pirates were some other communities, which were making the societies.

Commoners:  They were the modest people of the society. They gained the huge interest in art and culture, which was reflected in his clothing styles also. The styles of these people were very much inspired with gothic and Germanic traditions. In the renaissance age, the massive clothes became prominent during the renaissance age. The popular women’s costumes of that era include linen chemises adorned with lace edges, lengthened breaches and heavy gowns etc. On the other hand, puffed trunk hose, padded doublet and balloon sleeves were the outfits of the men during that period. On the other hand, they had the healthy eating styles. Some of the eatables they would consume included roasts, soups, pastas, pastries and cheeses etc.

Serfs: Serfs, otherwise known as peasants, were the labor-class people of that era. They would work on the lands of the lords. Most of them would work on the lands of the lords, and they had to do hard labor in order to pay the dues. Sometimes, they also had to pay the rent in the form of money to the lords, apart from the labor. The clothing styles of these people were simple. They would wear a blouse that would be fastened with leather belt round the waist, and an overcoat or mental which was made up of thick woolen material.

Royals/Nobles/Aristocrats: These were the upper class communities of that era. They would wear the dresses beaded with the jewels. Moreover, their outfits were extravagant, many of which are fashion-statements for today’s people also. The dresses of Queen Elizabeth I were the best examples in this regard. Besides, they would eat the luxurious foods.

Pirates: Mainstream pirates were not part of lawful communities. They would wear the disorganized styles of outfits, which they would loot from the ships. The pirate clothing developed during that era is also the fashion statement of the people of today’s scenario. Their lifestyles were very much like the sailors. They would eat fresh veggies, eggs, meats and cheeses. Moreover, dice, cards, dance and singing were the leisure activities of these raiders, which they would use for fun. There was another class of pirates also, which belonged to the lawful raiders authorized by the government. Such raiders were known as privateers, and their work was to loot the treasure ships of the enemy nations. The privateers would live the lifestyles like nobles as they had the full support of the kingdom.

Monday 20 February 2012

Sensation of Renaissance Festivals

Renaissance CostumesVillage fairs and festivals were important occasions in the life of the common people in Europe, when they could socialize at these public venues and also market their handicrafts and other home-made products. This was an occasion for them to dress up in gaiety in the best of their clothes, to add to the festive atmosphere.
Today’s sub-culture borrows its fashion from the styles of Renaissance costumes. The flowing lines of long full length gowns, corset-shaped jackets with drawstrings, pirate-style shirts, skirts with trimmings, frills and laces with loose tops lined with brocades and frills are favorite themes of costumes inspired by the Mediaeval clothing styles. These styles are mixed with punk styles and contemporary looks to create a new style.
This sub-culture also borrows the theme of fairs from the mediaeval period. However, unlike the fairs of the period, the contemporary sub-cultural fairs are occasions to show off the Sub-cultural costumes. People dress up in their costumes, dye their hair black, shade their nails and lips in dark shades and also a=carry accessories from the mediaeval clothing such as swords gilded and studded with semi-precious stones.Medieval Clothing
In these fairs, people who follow his sub-culture also wear the specific costumes related to the famous characters from the mediaeval history and English literature. Invitations are sent out using archaic English, mentioning the names of fictional characters from literature and special gala evens to recreate the mood of Renaissance festival. This event is very popular all over the United States and especially the state of Florida is famous for these kinds of festivals.
A festival thus, is a sub-cultural expression of the people’s desire to break free of formatted lives created by the industrialized societies. At the same time, it is an occasion for the garment industry to promote the sub-cultural costumes.

Renaissance Costumes and its Sub-Culture

Renaissance was the age when set ideals of society in Europe were broken and new ways of thinking emerged and supported. This period has given rise to inspiration for the modern world, for people who want to make a change in the traditional ideas and lifestyles. This is also reflected in the degree of freedom the Renaissance society had in its dress, the range of colours, outfits and patterns of clothing. Renaissance costumes had a variety of clothing for men and women. A Renaissance outfit included cloaks, robes, capes, tunics, shirts and trousers. Renaissance costumes could be made of velvet, silk, satin and lined with fur and brocade for the nobility. On the other hand, common people’s Renaissance clothing was made of cotton, linen, flannel and sheepskin.

In contrast, our industrialised societies have much less freedom in forms of dress, colours and styles. As traditional societies become industrialised, the wide range of clothes gradually becomes less in use in such industrialised societies. However, as opposed to the Renaissance society, dress is not class-bound in modern society. Hence, some people in modern times are trying to combine the freedom in the wide range of dresses from the Renaissance period with the freedom from class in modern society. Of course, it means that only those can wear a certain dress who have the money to afford it. Hence, a complete freedom from class is not possible in this attempt.

Pirate clothing is an important of this experiment described above. It has become fashionable with the notion that an outlaw of history can be perceived as a person trying to redefine his or her society. This dress projects this image by using the fashions from the pirate clothing of history, but in a modern setting by men who are not really living in contradiction to the law, but live outside the mainstream culture. The most popular dress from the Pirates’ costume is the shirt.

These are usually long and loose-sleeved with frills and brocades and available in dark and white shades. Accessories with pirates’ costume often include a carved, embossed and engraved sword. It gives a mediaeval look to the Pirate clothing ensemble, eventhough it is no longer required to carry a sword in the modern world.

The renaissance sub-culture of clothing and accessories underline the fact that a historical aspect of culture can be re-defined in a different environment to make a completely different and even opposite statement.

Friday 17 February 2012

Renaissance Costumes Use in Traditional Society


Renaissance was called the period when set notions of traditional society in Europe were broken and new ways of thinking a new world was imagined, argued and propounded. This period evokes sentiment and inspiration for the people of today, who want to bring in a change in the traditional ways of thought, behavior and actions. This is also reflected in the degree of freedom the Renaissance society had in the way it dressed, the range of colours and styles and patterns of clothing. Renaissance period in mediaeval Europe had many diverse kinds of clothing for men and women. A mediaeval ensemble included cloaks, robes, capes, tunics, shirts and trousers. Renaissance dresses could be made of rich fabric such as velvet, silk, satin and lined with fur and brocade for the aristocratic men. On the other hand, common men’s mediaeval clothing could be made of cotton, linen, flannel and sheepskin.

In comparison, modern industrialised societies have much less choices open to them in forms of dress, colours and styles. As traditional societies industrialise, the diversity in clothes gradually disappears from such industrialised societies. However, as opposed to the Renaissance society, dressing styles are not class-bound in our own society. Hence, some people in our times are attempting to combine the freedom of choice in the diversity of dresses from the Renaissance period with the freedom from class in our own times. Of course, it means that only those can wear a certain dress who can afford it. Hence, a complete freedom from class is not possible in this experiment.

Still, in our own times, these Renaissance style dresses inspired by the mediaeval era have become fashionable amongst the men of class and taste. Unlike contemporary clothing for men, these dresses come in a wide range of colours, including some bright colours such as red and maroon and have frills, gather and brocade embroidery. White, black and grey are other colours in vogue in these dresses. Contemporary synthetic fabrics such as rayon are also used along with the traditional fabrics for these dresses.


Women’s dress inspired by the Renaissance Europe uses long gown as the most popular basic design, but with much less gathers than in the original mediaeval ladies’ gown. Renaissance-inspired costume thus makes the dress bold, unique and attention-catching in contemporary world.

Thus, while styles and patterns are taken from the Renaissance period, the usage of renaissance costumes and medieval clothing are completely modern in idea, practice and value system.

Thursday 16 February 2012

Wear Unique Designable Renaissance Costumes

Renaissance costumes from medieval European times are becoming popular for both men and women of young age. Some designer companies focus exclusively on Renaissance costumes, pirates’ shirts and swords knives, scabbards and other weapons from mediaeval European times. Renaissance clothing has become a fashion now. The flowing lines of women’s Renaissance-style clothing make them look graceful, while loose pirate shirts with gathers for men give them an aura of authority and nobility. To complement the Renaissance clothing outfit, medieval weapons and especially mediaeval swords are designed with carved metal handles to make the entire ensemble look arresting.

These clothes provide for bright coloured as well as pastel shades for women. Burgundy red is a very popular colour for women. Men’s pirate shirts may come in maroon, brown, white, black or grey. These shirts have loose ends hanging out of the belts. Cloaks, capes and robes with embroidery, fur and brocade complete the ensemble for men as well as women. Mediaeval sword handle may be gilded and embossed with many colours, with carving and gem set into the handle.

These swords may be big or small and single-edged or double-edged. Some swords also have a small compass set into the handle of the sword. This is to give a look of the navigator to the onlooker. There are different kinds of swords available. These include the pirate swords, Samurai swords, military swords and even wooden swords modelled on mediaeval lines. Some swords are named after famous kings and warriors from ancient period. These include King Arthur sword, Viking swords and Celtic swords.

Along with the swords also come shields, which have intricate design and embossments done on them. These may be made of leather or metal. Eventhough weapons are not needed in public today, mediaeval swords and other mediaeval weapons along with Renaissance clothing give a look of regalia to the wearer.

Tuesday 31 January 2012

Spectrum of Styles with Renaissance and Medieval Clothing

Renaissance CostumesThe Medieval Period lasted from 5th to the 14th century, giving way to the Renaissance. A defined class stucture and rigid laws applied to all walks of life including medieval clothing. Inappropriate clothing resulted in the wearer liable to pay fines. The common class made do with materials at hand while nobility had access to the finest fabrics from around the world. Peasants wore practical medieval clothing like a tight tunic with a rope or leather belt. Higher up the ladder nobility were free to wear clothes according to their rank like fancy robes, surcoats, belts with jewels, hose, robes with puff sleeves and fur trim. Women wore richly adorned, tight dresses usually consisting of a tight form fitting, tightly laced bodice matched with a high collar or low neck dress with a long train finished with a mantle or surcoat. Knights were the military with their unique suit of armor covering an outfit of linen shirt and trousers, woolen stockings and a padded coat. Royalty wore bright, vividly coloured, long sleeved tunics with a surcoat. Ends of the tunic or robe were finished with fur trim and hose and shoes completed the attire. Fancy velvet hats with jewel embellishments were the preferred form of headdress for royalty. Medieval costumes were elaborate and categorized according to classes following strict sumptuary laws.

The Renaissance era was more progressive, paving the way for more flamboyant and stylish renaissance clothing that built on styles of the previous era. While the peasant’s clothing was purely functional, made from available material, the nobility went overboard in the use of fine fabrics like muslin, silk and velvet. Typical Renaissance costumes comprised of long sleeved loose fitting shirts with a short leather or velvet jacket or sleeveless jerkins, sometimes topped off with a flowing, elaborate robe. Bottom renaissance costumes were made up of fitted breeches and cod pieces, stockings and heeled shoes. Renaissance costumes worn by noble women were layered. Over a shift women wore underskirts with a whalebone corset topped by a cone shaped hoop skirt with an embroidered petticoat sitting above it. A ruffled shirt added another layer at the top with a gown overlaying all these. Brightly coloured, embellished and embroidered, the gowns formed the focal point. Leather shoes and embroidered stockings completed the ensemble. Royalty wore similar but more expensive and more elaborately embellished renaissance costumes.Medieval Costumes

The peasants or gentry did not have much choice; nobility followed set patterns and pirates alone seemed to have the greatest latitude in wearing clothes they could lay their hands on. Today, pirate shirts have an exclusive style and charm of their own with loose flowing sleeves gathered at the wrist and collars to match. Accessories like a tricorn hat, wide sash and belt and a knife stuck in the belt give a rakish air.

Dressing up for a party or a themed event? Choose from a range of pirate clothing, renaissance costumes or medieval costumes. Period clothing has a spectrum of flamboyant styles to show you off at your best. All these are available at stores and online shops where you can pick, match and assemble your gear to perfection at the best prices.

Monday 30 January 2012

Interesting Facts about Medieval Renaissance Costumes and Weapons

Renaissance CostumesRenaissance costumes are now are the part of fun and play. Once considered as the costumes of masses and elite now find their place in themed events and parties. Renaissance fairs and events like pirate themed parties are the occasions where people have opportunity to wear these stinking clothes. Want to attend such events, you must have renaissance clothing and associated accessories.

Low quality fabric and poor construction of renaissance costume can spoil the fun of event. Therefore it is advised to seek for only authentic looking medieval clothes online or offline. For searching, type the keywords like medieval clothes, medieval clothing, medieval costumes, renaissance clothing etc on Google or Yahoo or any other web browsers. While shopping, thoroughly read the description, view the picture carefully and go through the customer’s reviews on product and service of seller in order to elude hiccups in future. However remember if you get a quality product from a seller than in future consider placing order with the same firm because firstly you are on satisfied customer of the firm. Second, firm will also leave no stone upturn for providing the quality service for its pleased customer.

By now we are finished on topic - how to shop for medieval renaissance outfits but what about weapons, they are equally important as other dresses, infact during medieval times weapons of medieval knights and warriors were the sign of dignity and supremacy. Therefore let us cast some light on medieval weapons.

* Swords – Most of the people don’t know the difference between swords and daggers, they find these two things in the same level however swords are more harmful than dagger or knives and bigger in size as well. A dagger or knives will leave only bruises on human body while a sword can cut them into pieces. We can see the extensive varieties in medieval swords for instance some had double blades on edge, some were curved, and some were straight. Scimitar, long-swords and spatha were popular swords of those times.

* Warships- During medieval era it was more of sea fighting than on land so warships were vital part of their weapons such as long-ship, junk and gallery.

* Ranged Weapons- Ranged weapons were used to arrack on enemy from distance. These weapons cause maximum damage to enemy without a sign of any minor injury on attacker. Battle axes, maces, Pole arms and spearheads, staffs and canes and war hammers were the part of this category of weapons.

* Blunt weapons – The name itself suggest that the main reason of developing such weapons were to give enemy severe injury. The sole purpose of using of blunt weapons over enemies were to torture, not killing them and make their life worst than hell. Horseman’s pick, the morning star, de Corbin and mace were famous blunt weapons of medieval era.

What we know till now is each medieval weapon has some specific purpose that is why when you dress like a character from middle age, take the weapon accordingly. Do not forget eye patch and rope for extra effect if you are playing a pirate.Medieval Weapons

What we know till now is each medieval weapon has some specific purpose that is why when you dress like a character from middle age, take the weapon accordingly. Do not forget eye patch and rope for extra effect if you are playing a pirate. For more information about renaissance costumes, medieval clothing and renaissance clothes you can visit our site tudordressing.com.

Thursday 19 January 2012

The mark of richness in medieval clothing and tips of decorating your room with medieval weapons

Medieval CostumesWe now live in a highly fashion conscious society, different type of dresses are available here. Medieval clothing is preferred by all and numerous plans to dress like kings and queens from the heritage time. Medieval costumes have a distinct style and fashion of its own, their authentic style, great quality and lavish display reminds us of the costumes that were specifically tailored in accordance with the social background of the citizens.

Renaissance or rebirth was that time in Europe when people enjoyed celebration. It was the time when extravagance and richness dominated the lifestyle. Men loved flaunting pirate shirts and boots while women chose long silk gowns and brocades to charm with their femininity. As mentioned, it was the age of quest men expressed their style not only through their attire, but also with their weapons. Medieval weapons not only reminded us of wars and battle, but also enhance the masculine charm that reminds us of a protector, valor, a knight or a pirate from the dark sea. Today, these medieval weapons have become an important piece of decorative items, and many prefer to choose the medieval helmet of the knights to bask in the lost glory of the era.

Varieties of Medieval Weapons

Today we only have the replica from the original, these are much light in weight and are just used as decorative items on walls and rooms. The most commonly used weapons include medieval helmet, axes, shield, crossbow and armor. These weapons are now crafted in steel and then decorated perfectly to give the look of the medieval age. Medieval weapons epitomize the lavish lifestyle of the age and recollect the glorious past. Few popular medieval weapons that are easily available, includes, a sword, dagger, katana, dirk, scimitar, katana and etc. If you are a collector, you may search through internet and collect these items. You may use these props to decorate your room or enhance your collection. In special theme parties, like “Pirate knight out” or on Halloween Night you may carry these weapons with your fancy costume and make your look more convincing than just fancy dresses.

All about buying medieval weaponsMedieval Weapons

Thus if you plan to buy medieval weapons, you must visit the internet and go through various sites that sell such items. You will be happy to find that the online stores have different types of arms and they do not charge extra while selling. The best part is that, it is easy to buy from a web-store, since they take the responsibility of sending the purchased goods to your house. All you need to do is, just visit the store, then select the items and click to pay the bill. Pay through credit card and get your items delivered at the doorstep within a 7 days time.

It was the time in the history when clothes made the man, man used to dress ravishingly and probably even better than a man dresses today. It was about style and as the law of the time dictated that the clothes must be distinctly expressive about the social class or background he comes from. Adding to this was the quality, fabric, cut, color and materials also helped in identifying the society and his life style. Thus the period dressing accompanied with steel accessories may be chosen by those who dare to be different in the festive time.

Sunday 8 January 2012

Characteristics of Medieval Clothing and Renaissance Costumes

Medieval ClothingAny person in Tudor era was easily recognized by attire. During those periods every person had to follow the rules (whether rich or poor) imposed on clothing based upon the color and material of fabric. For Royal ladies fashion was important, they were the trend setter, great fashion icon for commoners. Medieval dress had many layers, over all it was a collection of different fabrics and other materials. The designing patterns and fabric used in making of costume were unmatched and at the peak. Let us consider a few peculiar points’ medieval clothing bearing in mind the fabric and designs.
* Materials and fabrics – Medieval costumes of royal and wealthier people were made from the fabrics of silk, satin, taffeta, sarcanet, scarlet and velvet. Scarlet a plain fabric and sarcanet was a form of delicate silk. If colors that give lustrous and rich shades to fabric weren’t available in the region then they were imported at great expense from Middle East countries. Most commonly worn clothes were of silk, satin, tinseled, and silver. They were made from blended fabric or pure fabric with engraved embroideries. Only upper class people were allowed to wear medieval clothing of rich fabric. Commoners were only allowed to use cotton, sheepskin and linen as fabric and black or grey color.
Slashing technique – Limiting fabric and color of costume to a particular section of society lead to the creation of new technique called slashing. This technique was a way of answering to rule makers who imposed restriction over the use of bright colors and luxuriant fabric on lower strata people. A cut was made on the outer surface of cloth from which inner lining popped out and creates a contracting effect. One more method was developed called ‘Pink’ in this method fabric was cut into diamond shape through which inner lining appeared. Picking was more delicate than clashing.
Geometric Shape – Rather than designing dress in natural shape of body, royal ladies chose to go for geometric shape. In order to get desired shape fabrics were quilted or padded and for stiffing, whalebone or buckram was used. To get flat triangular shape corsets were worn under the gown. Wearing medieval dress was difficult process for royal ladies and need atleast two helpers to fit into them but all was endure for the sake of fashion and beauty.Renaissance Costumes
Exquisite Sleeves – Sleeves were the most elaborate part of the medieval costumes. Designed with very fine details they were available in various styles, even in padded form too. Sleeves were separately sewed and attached to main outfit by tying or pinning. Padded wings on shoulder hide the joins of sleeves. Ruffs were added part of collar and sometime around cuffs also.
Tudor style of dressing had great degree of impact on renaissance costumes during later periods. Long voluminous dresses with funnel shaped sleeves and same old rule on clothing were derived from Tudor period. But the situation was not same for pirates. Pirate clothing was became more flamboyant and many new addition were introduced.
Medieval clothing of Tudor period and renaissance costume were almost had same approach in terms of fabrics and patterns with little changes designs.

Monday 2 January 2012

Go Ahead to Fulfill Your Dream of Childhood By Women's Renaissance Costumes

Renaissance CostumesIn her childhood every girl trust in make believe stories of princess and also believe that they are the princesses of the story. When you grow adult you find these stories far from realities but now no more, you can live your childhood dream of dressing like a princess. Don’t put those stories aside instead take part in costume based events like renaissance festivals or pirate themed parties. Such occasion will give you the ample opportunity to get dressed in renaissance costumes of princess theme.

The most eye catching part of these renaissance dresses are their voluminous structure. Long flowing gowns in various colors and shades, exquisitely designed long sleeves in funnel shape, frills or narrow shape give these gowns aesthetic look. Over to this, these dresses are made from soft materials like silk, brocade and velvet and are much comfortable and fabulous to wear. Detailing is much important for these larger than life size dresses because this thing is the main essence of classic clothing and completes the overall look. Detailing can be done by netting, frills, sequins and belt of colorful fabrics. Such fine work of art set a blend between cloth and its design thus the outcome we get is improved version of costume. In earlier era this type of clothing was only achievable to some small but high profile group of people but now people of any age belonging to any strata can enjoy feel of renaissance clothing.

If you feel incomplete in renaissance after wearing it then that must be a headpiece. It a good idea to wear a matching headgear to dresses like a lady of renaissance era. Numerous things are there to choose for instance hats, crowns, veils and wimple. Your choice of headwear depends on social status of character you want to portray. Also when you order for theses accessories you surly want them to long last that is why whenever you buy them purchase from established sellers whether they are offline or online sellers.

There style are varies in several numbers. You don’t have to settle for what rest are wearing. For varieties internet is best available medium to search for. You can select the design, color and fabric of material in which you are interested and still you will get your own space of individuality, this feature of internet shopping makes it pleasing experience.Pirate Costumes

Ladies you may have particular character in mind associated with this type of costumes like peasant or princesses but if you want to do something new and much more exciting then how about dressing like a pirate. Who says pirate character must be represented by men only. There were many famous women pirates too like Mary Read, Ann Bonney and Grace O’Malley.

So go and grab your favorite renaissance costumes and pirate costumes. You can make your set randomly also. Get a loose white colored full sleeve renaissance shirt and a loose black colored pant. For accessories golden loop, tricorn hat, a bandana, eye patch, exotic fur and thigh high boots are OK along with dark make-up.

Thursday 22 December 2011

Renaissance Costumes - Renaissance Fairies and Events

Renaissance CostumesDown the ages fashion has been evolving with the invention and development of various fabrics, colors and embellishments. The renaissance age is a glorious celebration of fashion statement, with extravagant and flamboyant styles emerging in this period. The royals and nobles led the brigade, vying with each other to show off their riches and status in the form of renaissance dresses that were made of costly fabrics and furs with rich brocade and lace trimmings further embellished with jewels and feathers. Stand a modern well dressed man next to a fully well dressed renaissance period courtier and he will look like a plain fowl next to a resplendent peacock. It is therefore not surprising that today renaissance fairies celebrate renaissance costume and renaissance dresses, giving people an opportunity to deck themselves in the finest period costumes and have a gala time recreating the gaiety of a time gone by. Hairstyles and head gear had just as much importance as the renaissance costume.
An invitation to attend a renaissance faire or an event with a medieval theme is an opportunity to display yourself at your flamboyant best. You could choose to dress like an Italian prince, a French Noble, an English courtier, a musketeer, a simple commoner or a dashing pirate in pirate clothing. Men and women can dress up and look extremely striking as well stylish in renaissance costumes. Women have a number of choices in renaissance dresses, ranging from a simple peasant dress to an elaborate princess gown with all the trappings and accessories to give a royal look.
Renaissance costumes you choose to attend a renaissance faire or event need not necessarily be made of the same expensive brocades, lace, furs and silks but there are modern versions that are just as striking in looks, color, appearance and feel to help you project the right image. Women will simply love to dress themselves in renaissance dresses with rich brocade, velvet bodice and matching embroidered skirt and sleeves with appropriate accessories or the other equally tempting and stylish options in renaissance dress designs. Among other designs women can opt for a gown and a skirt with a long train, cone shaped topped by a square neckline bodice edged with lace and jewels. Sleeves can be embellished in faux fur. Another choice is the late 1500s style with plenty of ruffs with plunging necklines, wasp waisted renaissance dresses.Pirate Clothes
When you choose a particular renaissance costume do not forget to accessorize it with the right articles. Arm garters give a unique look to your arms. Wands as well as scepters can add a magical or divine touch to the whole ensemble. Head gear is essential and choosing the right hat to complement your renaissance dress will set it off to a new level. Feathers can add a touch of gay insouciance.
Men can choose to be clad in richly royal renaissance dresses on the one hand or dress like a buccaneering pirate with the right pirate clothing including accessories for a flamboyant look.
There is a vast selection of renaissance costumes and pirate clothes available in stores as well as online and having a perfectly matched outfit sets you up for a perfectly enjoyable renaissance faire.

Wednesday 14 December 2011

Various Ways to Wear Renaissance Clothing

Renaissance CostumesRenaissance fair is the time when you get enough opportunity to express yourself. It’s time to strengthened the bonding among friends and families and enjoy medieval way of leaving. This festival provides you a chance to show your capability of enacting like the characters of medieval period. Started in early 1950’s, people in this festival get a chance to dress in renaissance costumes. They enjoy food, music and theatrical performance based on the life of legends of the bygone eras.
Many people attend these fests on regular basis but for some persons it is once in lifetime opportunity. If you are one of those lucky person who is about to attend such fair then apart from renaissance dresses there are other things provided below to consider.
First thing you need to do is - keep your sunglasses or eyeglasses at home while taking part. Obviously nobody in earlier period support sunglasses. They will look awkward and ruin the appearance of renaissance clothing. If it is important to use lens then use contact lenses.
After sunglasses, here comes the accessory second in list. They are the most vital part in shaping the whole appearance and give finishing touch to look. Accessory provides the room of improvement for medieval dress and its range varies from embellishing medieval clothing to headgears to armor and many others. No matter from where and what you purchase, accessories have tendency to personalize the ‘brought costumes’. To get an accurate look apart from medieval outfit, a little make up and require accessory will do a great job.Medieval Clothing
Third one is hair, during middle age whether men or women most importantly noble women had their unique sense of styling hair. No women in those periods used to cut hair. All had long similar looking hair unlike today’s women who have freedom in to choose the length and style. Mostly the hair of married women was confined in a bun in the back of head. So when you have a few days on your hand before the feast, try to find out the perfect hairstyle.
The last here is shoes. No outfit is complete without them. Either you have wrong pair of shoes or you don’t have and in both the cases you end up ruining your look. If you don’t have time or budget to buy an appropriate pair of shoes then go for black shoes or crystal shoes. For instance, to look like a pirate not only pirate costumes even pirate shoes, bandana, sash, hat and sword are equally required. For adding more effect an eye-patch and rope are considered.
Above mentioned points will help you in achieving the desired look you want. Now-a-days designers know how to make period clothing environment friendly, versatile and in budget of consumers. They use various materials to make alluring and exquisite dresses of velvet, cotton, brocade and satin fabrics. These clothing along with accessories will adorn you with glamorous and elegant look.
For a right renaissance costume do research. Take ideas from magazine, newspaper, books and internet. While medieval themed costumes available offline too but buying online is far better idea as it can provide the same quality of outfit at a reasonable cost.

Wednesday 7 December 2011

Understand Renaissance Costumes and Renaissance Dresses

Renaissance clothing flourished in the middle of the medieval age. In theta period, people who were affluent and rich wore this kind of clothing. Costumes were woven from hands and were quite exquisite. The fabrics used for medieval costumes were expensive and luxurious. During that period clothing determined the social stature of the person. Renaissance costumes were worn by people who were financially sound. Since the fabric used in such kind of clothing was costly and classy therefore they were resold at a very high value. Materials used in the medieval clothing were silk, wool, cotton, brocade; velvet etc. fabrics were specially imported from other countries. The costumes were rich in designs and were highly polished. Costumes of medieval age had embellishments of sparking jewels, pearls, ribbons, gems that made them elaborate and stunning. Affluent people used to make sure that their clothing reflects their stature. Medieval clothing has rich and elegant embroidery of gold and silver which made them even more costly.

Women costumes in medieval period were simple as well as intricate. Simple clothing comprised of bodices, underskirts and robes while the intricate one were skirts, collars , over bodices etc. costumes were stitched in a way to give woman’ body an hourglass figure which enhanced their look. Royal or affluent ladies used to wear bright colors like reds, orange and purple etc while the wench in that period was seen in brown shades. Women used to accessorize their dresses with broach and lace. To make the renaissance look complete, hat was an essential item to wear. Hats were made of the same expensive material like that of their costumes. Shoes were made of leather and had wooden soles.

In men clothing, the costumes were designed in a way to give them curved and barrel appearance in order to enhance their shape of body. Fabrics used in men clothes were similar to that of women. Shirts were loose fitted and had beautiful patterns with cushioned shoulders. The trousers that were known as breeches at that time were till the knee. Shoes were similar to that of women and hats were strikingly beautiful with stunning and fancy embroidery.

Pirate clothes are a rage these days since they are designed in a unique and distinct style. Pirate clothes are preferred by people of all age groups. If you desire to wear costumes of pirates then select accessories of renaissance period as well. Pirate clothing comprises of knitted cap, breeches or trousers known as breeches, shirts, boots, and swords. Pirate eye patch is on the top of the desired items of pirate dressing.

Popularity of renaissance costume and renaissance dresses has not faded even today. People find opportunities to wear such kind of Halloween or medieval clothing when renaissance festivals or fairs are arranged.

Monday 22 August 2011

Online Shopping for Renaissance Costumes

It is very impressive to find the wide array of renaissance clothing to choose from but the situation was not same during renaissance period. People had limited number of options to wear during that era. A single costume was worn number of times and was dirty all because of lack of laundry facilities and poor hygiene. But thankfully this is 22th century and renaissance costumes lovers can choose from the costumes of royal levels to peasants. To create the magic of past one can opt for desired costume from past.

To make a selection from the diverse option seems to be quite a challenging task. Even during festive seasons, it becomes very hectic for every retailer to meet the requirement. After all it is not possible for them to make available their range of costumes at every mall. The problem of locating vendors could be solved if you haunt for the medieval costumes online.

There should be no worry about the look as choices are diverse when it comes to renaissance costumes. If you think, after searching mall to mall you are not getting the product that really maintain balance between quality and cost then leave the old fashion way of offline shopping. Online retail shop would make your shopping experience hazel free. Online retails shops offer very authentic and beautiful rage of medieval clothing with awesome quality of fabric. The quality of products of these retailers is on par with the offline retailers and also available at reasonable amount but they don’t charge less at the expense of quality. Online shopping can prove to be a great money saver as you could save money on purchase and also you don’t need to spend on transport.

So why people have such a craze for renaissance dresses, the reason behind this is many festivities based on medieval theme for instance medieval theme wedding, pirate theme events, Halloween party and renaissance fairs even you can throw a party on middle age theme. All you have to do is to invite your guest in renaissance clothing, decorate the place with medieval theme accessories and order foods that belong to magical era. To increase the level of enjoyment you can organize a play, music and other activity of renaissance period. All above mentioned occasions are a way to show love and respect to medieval era and its al medieval things. Whatever the character you want to portray online shop will fulfill.

Shopping on internet can deliver the exact costume what actually is in your mind from its diverse category. Visit 3 to 4 websites for a single product, this will help you to compare the cost or atleast you will get the idea of product’s price. This action of yours will assist you in acquiring a quality product at an affordable rate. But don’t search on any website blindly, haunt for products only on well know websites like PirateDropship.Com, Renaissance-Outfits.Com and TheMiddleAges.Co.Uk because not many websites could offer you the costumes in terms of options, quality, availability and customer service.

For more information on renaissance costumes and dresses, medieval accessories pirate swords, medieval swords and other replicas we recommend you to visit our website tudordressing.com

Article Source

Friday 22 July 2011

Shopping for medieval clothing & renaissance clothing

Posted by BuyPirateBoots

Online retailers has made the shopping of medieval costumes much easier and convenient task until then people have look for store to store but online shopping too comes with some hiccups. It is not easy to find a right dress from the vast collection and sometime it looks like a tricky task. It happens, often people get confused to select from the wide range of collections, so how will you make a choice. Here are a few tips to find a right renaissance outfit for you.

Looking for specialize medieval dress shop

Searching online will hardly take a few seconds to find a website that sells medieval clothing but not every other website sells the genuine renaissance clothing. Every online retailer claims about the authenticity of their products and loudly says that they sell the best product and buyers fell in their fake promises. It is not difficult to determine a website that has mastered in retailing medieval clothing and can be determined by number of products it sells and its shipping arrangement for worldwide delivery.

How to get a right suggestion

If you have zeroed on a website for purchasing your desired costume dress then the next part is to view the review for website. The best review you can get from customer’s testimonials. Their views on quality and look of product will help you to make a decision.

Go for the website that offers more options

Purchasing very low cost renaissance costume is an option when your budget doesn’t allow for expensive costume but in the long run the dress can cause problems. Your purchasing decision also gets affected by the number of varieties offered by a website for a particular dress. For instance, you want to buy a medieval costumes for a medieval theme based party and the website you have chosen to buy the dress only offers single option. What will you do? Don’t settle for a single option of product you liked because the more options make it easier to choose better dress. Leading online costume retailers have more options for a single outfit.

Look for the website that offers quality service

Here, the quality service is not only means that a store has to provide you renaissance costume but the same also has to satisfied you with a secure online transaction, cost effective shipping charges and transparency in exchange and return policy. Customer satisfaction should be the sole criteria of leading online stores. Reasonable shipping charge with excellent delivery service is good for both customer as well as retailer. The list of such facilities goes on and on that you will have to take care.

If you are looking for medieval clothing bear the above given points in mind to refrain from any kind of online fraud or if don’t want to get intimidated by any false claims. To browse renaissance costumes and medieval outfits we recommend you to visit tudordressing.com. We are the leading online retailers of Tudor outfits and renaissance clothing.