Article Fashion

Whether you're attending a Renaissance or medieval faire
a Renaissance costume party
or participating in a reenactment or chivalry sports event from a certain period in history
it's important to buy a costume that fits comfortably. Wearing Renaissance costumes is fun and exciting
but only if the costume allows you to move and breathe freely. These tips on fitting and sizing will help you find just the right costume for the occasion.

Fitting for Online Purchases

Many people buy Renaissance costumes or medieval garb online
so proper fitting is extremely important. Order far in advance of your event in case it doesn't fit properly and you need to make an exchange or get alterations. Also
pay attention to the sizing instructions provided by the online costume retailer. Sizing varies from one store or brand to the next. Some medieval or Renaissance costume pieces may be designed to fit loosely while others may have a snug fit. Look for words like "tight or close fit" or "generous fit" and take into consideration your body shape
height
if you are short waisted
have long or short legs
etc. Ask a close friend or relative to help you with measurements so your sizing will be as accurate as possible.

How to Take Accurate Measurements

All measurements should be taken in "inches." Using a tape measure
the bust area should be measured under your arms and around the fullest part of your chest
with your arms at your sides. The waist should be measured around the natural waistline
with the measuring tape a bit loose. For hips
measure the fullest part of the hips. For skirt length
measure from the back part of your waist to the floor.

Trouser measurements for the inseam should be taken from the crotch to the desired length of the trousers (with shoes on). The outseam measurement should be taken from the natural waistline (below the belly button) to the desired trouser length (with shoes on). The neck measurement is the full circumference at the base of the neck.

Critical Measurements for Women's Renaissance Costumes

For women
the critical measurements are the bust
waist
hips
height
and skirt length. Sizes usually range from small to 3X. For leather bodices
the bust and waist measurements are needed
but the waist measurement is the most important. Girl sizes usually come in small
medium
and large and are often comparable to store sizes.

Fitting for Men's Renaissance Costumes

For men
critical measurements are the waist
chest
hips
neck
and height. Men's sizes usually range from small to 3X
and boy's sizes usually come in small
medium
and large based on store size ranges.

Minnetonka hat measurements should be taken around the circumference of the head just above the ears
where the hat will rest. Women should consider the type of wig they will wear and measure accordingly with a little room to spare. Hat sizes typically come in small
medium
large
or extra large.

Look for a detailed sizing chart when ordering online. The company should provide measurement instructions and/or customer assistance to ensure that your Renaissance costume and accompanying gear fit properly. Also
shop where you can buy all your costume items and accessories together to save on shipping. Items offered can include medieval swords or other weapons
SCA (Society for Creative Anachronism
Inc.) armor
SCA garb
medieval wedding accessories for weddings
pirate costumes
medieval jewelry
games
costume patterns
tights
boots
or shoes.

With the right fit
you'll be able to enjoy the Renaissance costume event to the fullest!