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Ever felt a little out of place, or maybe out of time?? Many people that have visited Renaissance Faires and other Medieval Events have felt this way. If you happen to arrive in an ancient world dressed in twenty first century attire, please don't fret. If you do get some strange looks, it is only because some of us really enjoy being "a part of the past" and are pretending that you are the one in odd clothing. You are totally welcome (and I hope we make you feel that way) if you'd like to be (or arrive) as part of the 'ambiance', the look and feel of the Faire - it's time and culture... here are some tips.

What is the Period and Culture of the Event? - Ask (or find out) what time-frame does the Event take place? Dark ages, Roman Empire, Viking/Norse migration, Feudalistic, Late Renaissance, Elizabethan, etc. just to name a few... this will give a clue as to the types of clothing, armor and manor of people that would be found there.

    Is it in a particular place or culture? Nomadic with the Huns on the Steppes, Ming Dynasty in China, Celtic Spring Festival on the Isle, Jousting Tournament in Germany, etc. this will further help determine how people will be acting, what they will be eating and what language is most dominant.

What works for You? - You need to ask yourself what (or who) you'd like to be for the day. decide what type of character suites your style but keep in mind that there were only a few members of Royalty, some land owners (Lords and Ladies), a handful of Knights or high ranking military, a large amount of working craftsmen (Smiths, Furriers, Maids, Merchants, Sailors, Carpenters, Farmers, Stone Masons, etc.), a ton of Foot-soldiers, Wives and Kids of all these... and of course there were Peasants, Beggars and various homeless types but do you really want to go around scratching fleas all day?

How do I make it fit? - Most of the time you can through in a phony accent or a few words in a chosen language and others will get the idea, "Wee' Mo-Sherri?","Aye, Cap-e-tan", "Darrr es Drinkin' to bay done!!" 

 The look you give yourself should reflect the culture you are portraying  as well as the class of person you are (ie. a ruffled collar and large pantaloons is typical for a wealthy Spaniard or a simple tunic with nice trim could be a trading Scandinavian). Props help also like a shovel for a Farmer, a ring of large keys for the Lady of the house or a tankard of ale for someone trying to enjoy a day off. The best thing to do is some research, at the Library or online there are multiple avenues you can explore. The human race is very divers, there has got to be a point of interest for everyone. Remember if you can't make your character match the event where you are going... people did a lot of traveling, exploring, pilgrimage, trading, and fighting in lands foreign to them, so to find a Viking in Jerusalem or an Arab in Sweden wasn't unheard of.

Tips to make Garb. - The inexpensive route; visit the local thrift shop, second-hand store, or rummage sale, there you may find the peaces needed to complete your Elizabethan Gown (from a couple of old prom dresses) or a Monks Robe (from some brown curtains), Cloaks, Tights, Knickers, Pantaloons, Kilts (from clothes that have fallen out of fashion and other material) it is only limited by your imagination.

    The Authentic way - To some, using the same methods and materials that were used 'back then' is essential. Of course that also means sewing them by hand. Cotton is a natural fiber but wasn't found until Europeans discovered America, Linen was used by those that could afford it, Wool was plentiful but makes today's summer events unbearable, Silk was traded very early on but was as expensive then as it is now. With time, effort and a little cash anything is possible, so if you want them 'Oo-ing and Ah-ing when you walk in, do some research, save your pennies and take your time to come up with the masterpiece you've envisioned... and we'll see you at the Faire!

E-mail us at lsrf@up.net for any help or suggestions.

PERFORMERS & ACTIVITIES   PICTURE GALLERY  INFO FOR VENDORS & VOLUNTEERS  CONTRIBUTORS  ACCOMMODATIONS  HOME  FRIENDS OF THE FAIRE  2007 VENDORS