Halloween Directory - Classic Medieval and Renaissance Costume

Classic Medieval and Renaissance Costumes For Renaissance Fairs

Remember those Renaissance fairs that the Jr. High would hold each year? The airy music and elaborate medieval costumes made for an interesting and creative atmosphere. Why not take a break from the everyday and visit a Renaissance fair as an adult? If you don't have a Renaissance costume, don't worry. The fair will have clothing shops that cater to people of all sizes and age. If anything, go into one of these shops just to enjoy the craftsmanship and intricacy of the beautiful garbs.

"Garb" is the official terminology used by Renaissance fans for anyone dressed in costume. Those that attend without costume are called "mundane." If attending your first Renaissance fair, you may be taken aback by the amount of people. These fairs are known to attract loyal visitors year after year. These regular, every day people enjoy taking a few days out of the year and "spicing it up" by donning a favorite Renaissance costume or medieval costume.

One of the biggest reasons for so many individuals to be attracted to medieval costumes and renaissance costumes is because of their origin in time. It is a moment in history when radical change was taking place. Beginning in the middle ages or the medieval era, Kings, Queens, knights, jesters, wizards and wenches come to mind. Though royal, they were not elegant, however a classical society.

Clothing or garb was a signal as to your social and economic status. Medieval costumes will range from ragged to quite elaborate, depending on society member imitated. As the medieval period lead the Renaissance clothing continued to signal societal status, but in general also took on more of an elegant air.

For instance, wearing a servant girl or wench costume lends an air, which is scandalous according to the costumes medieval or renaissance. On the other hand, the Maid Marian costume is more innocent and demure, while Robin Hood leans more to a brave and fearless man. Taking on the appearance of Merlin and other wizards brings power and ethereal wisdom to mind.

If you ever get a chance to attend either a Renaissance fair or party do it! When else will you have the opportunity to truly be Queen for the day? In fact, why relegate yourself to a general costume? Why not go as Leonardo da Vinci or Michelangelo? That's the beauty of these fairs; you can be whomever you desire.