Costuming Tips  

 

Remember we are together to have fun…there will be no costume requirements, Wear anything that makes you feel Piratey. Here are some ideas which might be of use to you.

 

Most pirates were just ordinary sailors. A very simple, ordinary sailor costume is a good place to start. While creating your costume, do remember how hot the summers can be and use light weight materials where you can.  Some suggestions are:

• A pair of breeches, either knee length or ankle length of striped, corduroy or plain fabric. Women may wear skirts.

• A shirt or blouse with long full sleeves.

• Footwear of period boots, shoes or sandals. Short "desert" type boots work well.

• A vest or jerkin, or a bodice for women.

• A scarf and/or hat for your head. Consider a woven straw hat, a flashy Cavalier-style hat, or a tricorn.

• Scarves, belts, striped socks, and pouches for accessories.

Modern fabrics should be avoided for reasons that should be obvious: lamé, shiny spandex, nylon, and polyester. You will be cooler and more comfortable if you stick with natural fibers that breathe: cotton, linen, wool, silk, ramie and even rayon. Also avoid neon colors, non-period prints, Velcro, and blue jeans (denim is period, but jeans are not).  Sunglasses are permitted but they should be wire framed or otherwise period looking when possible.

As you progress in your character, you might want to add fancier items:

• A frock coat

• Lace trims

• "Gold" buttons

• Feathers in your hat

Most characters would have personal weapons.

• Swords and knives are great, just be sure to keep bladed weapons sheathed and peace tied.

• Unloaded period firearms and cannons are also fine.

Additional personal props may include a drinking vessel, eating utensils, and a plate or bowl in period materials such as wood, metal, or ceramic. Even glass was used. "Venice-glass" was considered a protection since many believed that poison would cause it to shatter.

Researching period costumes is the best thing you can do, especially if you are portraying an actual historical person. But even if you're portraying a character you made up, it's still important that you do the research and have the proper costume for the era. If you're having trouble deciding on costume pieces or choosing "a look," talk to someone in the group whose costuming you like. They'll be flattered and you'll gain useful knowledge.