Spectrum of Styles with Renaissance and Medieval Clothing

The 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.

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.

Interesting Facts about Medieval Renaissance Costumes and Weapons

Renaissance 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.

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.

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

We 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 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.

Characteristics of Medieval Clothing and Renaissance Costumes

Any 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.
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.

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

In 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.

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.

Renaissance Costumes - Renaissance Fairies and Events

Down 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.
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.

Various Ways to Wear Renaissance Clothing

Renaissance 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.
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.