Costuming - On a budget or Off

Frankly, men have it easy, unless they are looking for a Victorian military uniform. Suits have changed very little since the Victorian era. Day suits tended to be brown or black, with or without vertical stripes. The typical shirt was white, with a detachable stand-up collar -- originally for ease in cleaning. Modern conveniences have allowed us to make it all one piece. A white, unruffled tuxedo shirt works perfectly. There is a little more adventure to be found in the waistcoat (vest) -- colors, patterns (remember that the Victorians invented paisley and bright colors), are all options.

Evening wear is also very similar to the modern day. A modern tuxedo, preferably with tails, can be found at many used clothing shops or rented at a tux shop.

Accessories include tie tacks for the cravat (not clips), cufflinks, the indubitable pocket watch on a chain from the vest pocket, and ... hats. Top hats for the upper classes. Beaver or wool for day wear, silk for evening, black or brown bowlers for the middle class. Newsboys caps were worn by just that--newsboys.

If you want to be completely authentic, and have the time and money to do so, there are several vintage pattern companies where you can order patterns for authentic garb, whether it is a military uniform, a dress suit or a ball gown. Folkwear has patterns that have been resized for modern folks (although I have noticed they do run small), and Amazon Drygoods carries patterns for everything from undergarments to shoes.

A Note on Authenticity for LARPs

Perfect authenticity is expensive, and really isn't all that important. Always remember that this is a game. But also be aware of where you get your ideas. Artwork in Comme Il Faut is mostly of the Edwardian period (1900-1910 or so)

See the resources section for more information and links to other resources on the web.

• Costuming - women
• Falkenstein LARP Homepage
• LARP Resources