Getting Started

The clothing is the first thing that people will note when you start in the Society for Creative Anachronism.  Most people begin by borrowing clothing and accessories until they determine what kind of persona they with to have.  Before long, however, its good to have a start on your own clothing.  Clothing, not a costume.  

Most people don't recognize the difference between a "costume" and "clothing".  That's fine.  You have to trust me though, that clothing is much more comfortable and useful than a costume. I often see young women showing up in the SCA in prom type princess dresses and you can tell that they are so excited, and also hot, sweaty, and uncomfortable.  

The most basic level of medieval clothing are tunics.  Tunics aren't hard to make, can be fitted to most figures (or left loose) and work for many different time periods in Europe.  My favorite pattern is a basic geometric tunic with triangular gores running up the front and back.  Here is a great tutorial by Alianora Ravenglass. Most SCA folk can walk you through how to make one of these if you aren't comfortable doing your own sewing.

The next step is head covering.  One of my favorite video bloggers with help on this topic is Edyth Miller.  She has a great step by step video on how to put on a basic veil.  

If you've ever tried to wear a veil you can find quickly that they slide off, won't stay where you put them and can be a total pain in the...tush.  This method holds your hair and the veil in place more comfortably.  Remember to make your veil out of a breathable fabric like linen or cotton.  Silk is pretty but if it's hot outside do know that silk is an insulator and while it's lightweight it holds heat in. That's nice when it's chilly but on a hot day it's pretty miserable.

The final element you will need are shoes.  Most people are scared to make shoes and I know, because I've failed on multiple occasions.  If you think you will be participating in the long term, go to a war.  Most wars have vendors such as Bohemond's Boots who can get you outfitted with footwear.  If you want to be brave and try sewing your own, look up Marc Carlson.  He's got a ton of resources and patterns on his website.

So, this is the quick and dirty version of getting together an outfit.  Later on, we will discuss specific 14th century women's clothing and how to produce it for reenactment.  We will also eventually get to other accessories, the great veil debate, and household sundries.  I can't wait!

In Service,

Elianor