Article Fashion

Perhaps she first caught your eye dressed in SCA garb
or maybe he looked dashing in his SCA armor. It could be that you were both wearing Renaissance costumes and enjoying a stroll through your local Faire when he captured your heart. Since then
time has passed and you're ready to tie the knot. If you're a fan of olden times
perhaps you're thinking of having a medieval wedding.

If so
you're not alone. More couples than ever are celebrating the beginning of their life together in full Renaissance costumes. And even the guests are getting in on the act
playing their parts and dressing in period garb. If your nuptials will have a medieval flair
you need the proper clothing and accessories. Here are some guidelines to get you started.

For Him

One of the most romantic looks for the groom is a cotton lace-up wedding shirt. For extra elegance
look for a shirt with rows of tiny tucks going down the sleeves and below the lace-up front. The shirts usually come in natural
black
and white
so he can wear the color appropriate to the season and time of day of your wedding. If he prefers a button front or you want a greater selection of colors
you can find a wedding shirt replete with tiny tucks that has three buttons going down the neckline. These shirts are often available in navy
grey
brown
mustard
teal
plum
wine
and forest green - one of which is sure to go with your wedding color scheme.

As for pants
depending on the season and time of day
you can opt for long twill breeches or knee-length twill breeches. The former are baggy
and usually feature both a button front and a drawstring at the waist
as well as drawstring cuffs. As the name implies
knee-length twill breeches have cuffs that tie just below the knee. You can typically buy them in a wide variety of colors
such as royal blue
tan
black
burgundy
or forest green.

For Her

For the Renaissance bride
it starts with the chemise. There are a wide variety of styles from which to choose
but one that's popular features sheer fabric that has demi sleeves and a sweetheart rose at the center of the neckline. For a more formal touch
there are chemises that feature extraordinarily long
hanging sheer sleeves and a gathered neckline. Similarly
a chemise with metallic gold trim at the square neckline is eye-catching.

As for your gown
you can go with something as simple as a cotton twill surcoat or as ornate as an Irish dress with a fleur-de-lis brocade bodice. You may even want to create your own gown; if so
there are numerous patterns from which you can choose.

For Both of You

If you're planning a medieval wedding
you'll also need the proper accessories. Dragons symbolize passion
monogamy
and love
so incorporating dragons into the ceremony or reception is wonderfully appropriate. Perhaps you'd like to wear a dragon double heart pendant
or you would like to use two dragon goblets for your toast.

If you're having a traditional ceremony
you'll most likely need handfasting cords
which will be used to bind you and your beloved's hands together with each promise you make to one another.

With the right planning
there are many ways to incorporate Renaissance themes and costumes into your special day. Celebrate with gusto!