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

Tuesday 16 October 2012

Contributions of Medici Family in Renaissance Movement


Medici Family in Renaissance

There is no doubt that a lot of political, economical, cultural and artistic activities took place in the renaissance age. A number of renaissance men and women gave their contributions in the flourish of different fields of art and science. Sculpture, painting, renaissance clothing and there were many other aspects, in which the society progressed. On the other hand, a huge growth had also been witnessed during that period.

Medici was unquestionably one of the big names during that period, whose contribution in the renaissance era can never be overlooked. It was a banking family, a political dynasty and later on became a royal family. Prominent contribution of this family is recognized in the economic growth of the society; however, it has some other contributions also. For instance, four popes of Roman Catholic Church were produced by this family. The popes from Medici family included Pope Leo X from 1513 to 1521, Pope Clement VII from 1523 to 1534, Pope Pius IV from 1559 to 1565, and Pope Leo XI  in 1605. So, this family had a great role in papacy also. Moreover, Catherine de' Medici (1547–1559) and Marie de' Medici (1600–1610) were two regent queens of France, who were from Medici Dynasty. The family also became hereditary Dukes of Florence in 1531 A.D.

Besides, the Medici family gained prominence in the wool trade in 14th century. It will be significant to mention that wool was used in manufacturing the medieval clothing as well as some renaissance costumes. France and Spain were two major centers of the wool trade. Besides, the family also rose to power through its social network with elite families by means of partnership, employment and the marriage of convenience. Some of the big families of that period included Salviati, Bardi, Cavalcanti and the Tornabuoni. The foundation of this family is thought to be done by Averardo de' Medici. His son Giovanni di Bicci created the Medici Bank and became the one of the richest men in Florence. Besides, he gained the good support for introduction of proportional taxing system. His son Cosimo the Elder, Pater Patriae, became the unofficial head of states of the Florentine Republic in 1434. Florence was ruled by three successive generations of Medici in a big part of 15th Century. They altogether abolished representative government, still they clearly dominated it.

Medici is supposed to be one of the contributors in the commencement of proper banking system. Today also, many of the facets of the renaissance age influence the modern age including the banking system. This is the reason why renaissance period is supposed to be the era, which showed the path to the modern times.

Wednesday 22 August 2012

A Brief Life History of Tudor Monarchs in England



A Brief Life History of Tudor Monarchs in England

Tudor era has gained a huge significance in the history of England. This was the era of flamboyance. The popular renaissance age also took place during that period, which awakened the cultural instinct of the people. The medieval clothing of that era is a perfect example of this cultural instinct. Besides, the Tudor dynasty established its kingdom, which ruled over more than a century.

Six monarchs were witnessed by the English people during that era, from Henry VII to Elizabeth I. The dynasty comprised of both positive and negative traits. Henry VII, Henry VIII, Edward VI, Mary Jane Gray Mary I and Elizabeth I were the monarchs of this dynasty.
Henry VII: Henry VII was the first king from this dynasty, who was born in Pembroke. He defeated Richard III at the battle of Bosworth Field in 1485 and claimed the throne. He restored the stability in England and ruled for 24 years. The policy of Henry VII was to maintain peace and economic prosperity. He married Elizabeth of York who was the niece of Richard III.

Henry VIII: Henry VIII was the son of Henry VII, who was declared king after the death of his father in 1509. In the early years, Henry was known for his friendliness. He was a companion more than a king. He was generous in his affection and gifts. But, in the later years people started describing the king for his fatigue and cruelty. Henry broke his alliance with Rome and declared himself as the head of Church of England. He made an alliance with Protestant German states by marrying the daughter of a Protestant German Duke. He married six girls in distinct periods. Mary I, Elizabeth I and Edward VI were his three children of Henry VIII, who were born through different wives. Edward VI was the youngest, but was declared as his first heir, because he was the only male among them. Mary I and Elizabeth I were given place after him in the line of succession.

Edward VI: Henry VIII died in 1547, when Edward was only 9-years old. He was declared king in this small age. Surprisingly, Edward would take an interest in religious matters. He was a believer of Protestantism, and “Book of Common Prayer” was published during his reign. But, he found his succession problematic. His elder sister Mary I was a devout catholic and Edward was afraid that she would reverse the protestant reforms made by him and his father. So, he removed Mary and Elizabeth from the line of succession. Elizabeth was a protestant, but it was necessary to remove both of them to expel one as per the law. He changed his father’s will and gave the succession to his cousin sister Lady Jane Gray. Edward died in the small age of 15, in the year in 1553.
Lady Jane Gray: Lady Jane Gray was a proclaimed queen after Edward, but her support was lost in 9 days.

Mary I: Mary I was the next monarch from the Tudor dynasty, but she proved to be a troubled queen. She used all means to restore the catholic faith, and burnt many innocent Protestants in stake. Because of this, she is dubbed as ‘Bloody Mary’. She married Philip of Spain to produce a catholic heir, but could not be successful. Finally, she had to declare her sister Elizabeth as her successor. Mary died in 1558, in the age of 42.

Elizabeth I: Elizabeth I was the most famous monarchs of Tudor dynasty. She never let anyone challenge her authority as a monarch. She also faced the pressures to marry, which she never accepted. She was also fond of fashion. During her era, flamboyant renaissance shirt were gaining popularity. Her clothes beaded with ornaments had the special allure. She died in 1558, which was the end of Tudor era.

Wednesday 15 February 2012

Medieval Costumes Fashion in Modern Style

Renaissance costumes has become a fashion statement in this modern world. Dresses for men and women are being inspired by the Renaissance dresses from Europe. Mediaeval costumes provide an elegant and graceful look to the wearer. Portraits of aristocratic men and ladies from Europe have provided the inspiration for the design of these costumes meant for modern men and women.

Renaissance dresses for women include long gowns covering the feet, but without the flow of gathers. These modern Renaissance-style gowns are figure-hugging. Cotton, linen and laces are used to enhance the visual appeal. Cuts and shapes follow the trends popular in the mediaeval costumes as we see in the paintings of those eras.

An important dress for women is inspired by the mediaeval chemise. Chemise was a long and lose cotton or linen tunic worn in mediaeval times by the ladies under all their dresses. Its chief function was to provide an elegant fall to the outer garment and to absorb perspiration. Modern dress inspired by the chemise can be worn as the main dress in a stylish mediaeval fashion. It comes in white, black, patterned fabric or even in bright colours such as burgundy red. Sleeves are long and may be detached in some costumes.

Cloaks, robes and capes are other pieces of dresses inspired by the mediaeval costumes. They provide a regal look to the wearer and may be made from cotton, silk, satin, velvet and synthetic fabric.

Pirate clothing is very popular for men interested in these costumes. Men’s clothing has a full ensemble in the form of pirate shirts, capes, cloaks, coats, tunics and vests. Dresses for men in the form of coats and tunics may be in bold colours such as maroon, blue or black and may be embroidered with brocade. Caps may have gems, brocade and feathers adorning them. Swords and daggers complete the clothing accessories for men’s costumes.

Sunday 5 February 2012

Renaissance Clothing – In Control of Church and Rulers

Renaissance CostumesIt was textile industry of Florence in Italy and banking sector who bought revolution in renaissance clothing. These medieval costumes were so popularized that they spread like a wildfire and became a milestone of renaissance period and inspiration for many modern age fashion designers. medieval clothing could be distinguished by short upper garment for men and tend of making close fitting clothes which was opposite to style prevailing during Tudor Era. We can see the numerous images found in historical books, archeological sources and tapestries as evidence in support of fitted clothing.
There was one great way of distinguishing ‘haves’ from ‘have nots ‘- renaissance dresses. Wealth of people and their social ranking was differentiated on basis of garments. Medieval clothing was means of public display – as much of extravagant and expensive outfit you could carry; the higher would be your status. It means even if someone living a miserable life but wearing right attire in an elegant way then the person was socially accepted.
After noticing the growing influence of renaissance dresses church came into play. They criticize latest fashion trend of the era and those who worn it. People who heavily focused on fashion was seen as sinner by church and labeled them as conceited people. Anyone who was wearing renaissance outfits was termed as conceited people because such clothing separate them from others who were perfect civilians, following each and every rules of land in which clothing also included. Preachers and other guardians of society took these acts as a threat to Christianity, a danger for their religion and original way of their living. During the period of 14th century and 15th century laws were created to restrict the flourishing trends of Renaissance costume.
These were created in order to re-establish their position as ruling class. To get control over general public such laws were forcefully implemented. In new laws each and every aspect of clothing was included whether it was cuts, colors or material of fabrics. But the fact was these laws were tools of luxury legislation and made under the influence of church. One such law was passed in England according to which employees of urban craftsmen, grooms and servants could spend small amount of their income on clothing.Renaissance Dresses
Colors were given certain meanings in renaissance dresses so that people could wear them accordingly. For instance green was for love, gray for sorrow, red for nobility, blue for fidelity, yellow for hostility and black and gray for people of lower status. But blue was also a color of adulterous wives in Low Countries. It was an irony that royalties and aristocrats who considered black and gray colors as symbol of sorrow, with the starting of 15th century they started to wear these two colors to show rich embellishing elements on their attires like beautiful embroideries, costly jewelries and other embedded metals and ornate.
Although renaissance costume and renaissance dresses has classicism and left glorious history for us but its rich and colorful part was accessible to fewer people only, others were forced to wear what might be they don’t want to wear.

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.

Thursday 1 December 2011

Elegance Looks in Renaissance Costumes

Renaissance CostumesRenaissance costume had some really interesting designs for both men and women; the designs were more of lavish as well as sophisticated. Furs and silks were mainly used as it depicted luxury and status. It was kind of showing of one’s social status through means of clothing. It is generally believed that fashion came into existence with the era and nothing like style or trend was seen before this. Initially these renaissance clothes restricted the movement but later it changed eventually. Layers were generally preferred and women costumes included skirt, vest, bodice, collar and an underskirt. Men’s wear consisted of coats and clothes that gave a square look to man’s body. Lots of padding was done to make the shoulder broader. They also wore long tunics which went down to the knees. Men’s fashion focused on material that had a bold look, long sleeves were preferred, tight body garments, brimmed caps and leather jackets.

Pirate Clothing also gets its emergence during that phase and people still follow it. It is one section of clothing that fits well for both the genders and it is gaining popularity in social events and Halloween parties. These costumes are getting a huge come back and you can even get them at local stores at a very low price or even on sale. When thinking of buying pirate clothes, pirate shirt is a must and you need to accessorize it with chains, rugged piece of cloth and eye patches. On for your special occasion if you really want to impress people by your pirate look the look is incomplete without a trendy pirate hat. Renaissance clothes are generally loose-fitted clothes, and there is a lot of variation in it. With growing fashion you can add the latest accessories to enhance the pirate or the renaissance look. Color variation varied for whites to blacks and dark brown. If today you want to try the same look, choose a pant that is two sizes bigger.Pirate Clothing

With the influence of today’s you can complete a pirate look or your Renaissance Clothing with a smartly tied bandana on the head, silver loop earring and a sword. Today you can buy all these clothing and suitable accessories online and have a changed look on your special occasion. Kids very much prefer this look for their school functions and birthdays party moreover this is a hot favorite theme for adults. Some fun loving couples experiment with the pirate look or renaissance costume on their weddings as well.

Wearing Renaissance Clothing and Pirate Clothing has always been a matter of prestige during that era and it continues even today. You feel like kings and queens and women specially flaunt their figure on the occasion they wear those fitted gown that enhances their beauty.