Medieval and Renaissance Costumes

Are you at a loss for the right Medieval and Renaissance costume to wear for that themed party, faire or festival that you have been invited to? Fear not! Here are some Medieval and Renaissance costumes that will surely make you blend in, while still being unique and special.

Movies are great references for Medieval and Renaissance costumes. To give you some ideas on what Medieval costumes to wear, check out the movies Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, King Arthur and A Knight’s Tale. If you’re looking for Renaissance costumes, watch William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and Elizabeth for some inspiration. You can also go for movies with Roman themes, such as Gladiator or 300.

Medieval Costumes and Renaissance Costumes For Men

For an authentic Medieval or Renaissance look for men, get costumes in natural fibers, specifically linen, wool or silk. You can dress up as a peasant man and wear dark-colored baggy pants and a peasant shirt. If you plan to dress up as gentry, choose something much more fancy and ornate, which have designs on the neckline and hemline. Also, wear hose, a cotehardie and a houppelande. Don’t forget the tunic, which can vary in length.

If you want to exude a manly and strong character, consider wearing a Roman warrior costume. The gladiator costume typically includes a red-and-black tunic with a black knee-length cape. Together with this, wear a helmet and shin guards, and carry a sword and shield. For something even more specific, wear a Marc Antony costume. Wear a white tunic with brown accents around the neck and bottom area. Combine this with a red cape, gladiator sandals and bronze wristlets. This especially works well if you have a partner going as Cleopatra.

Medieval Costumes and Renaissance Costumes For Women

For women, the traditional costume is a peasant blouse or chemise that can be tied around the neck. This is used with a bodice that can support the bust. The full skirt is floor-length, and is worn over a hose. If you want something more elaborate and elegant, you can choose petticoat gowns with multiple layers, combined with tight corsets. You can also choose different headdresses, such as the hennin or the coif.

If you want something that will definitely stand out, a Cleopatra costume will do that for you. This typically includes an all-white dress, embellished with gold bands and details at the waist and the neck. Top it off with a golden beaded head piece and dark, bold make-up. For a more seductive look, you can also go as the goddess Aphrodite. Simply wear a white asymmetric dress with gold details for an elegant but sexy look.

Costume Accessories

Medieval and Renaissance costumes will not be complete without the right accessories! The right wig can give you a more realistic appeal. For men, bring the right weapons for a more authentic look. Choose from different swords, daggers or maces. Pair it up with a properly-fitting armor, which includes a helmet, armor bags and surcoats. For women, golden fancy jewelry can be used, such as rings, necklaces, pendants and anklets. You can also wear chain belts and brooches to enhance your look, and decorate your hair with golden clips and wreaths.

Make your costume more realistic by learning to speak the way people spoke in that era. There are a variety of online resources that can help you understand the history and teach you to speak in a similar manner and dialect.

Wearing a costume has never been this educational and this much fun!