How to Dress Like a Peasant for a Renaissance Faire

A Renaissance faire is more fun when you dress in costume, whether you are a knight, a princess or a peasant.

At least once in your life, go to a Renaissance faire and dress up. The choices of garb are abundant -- from pirate to princess to peasant. It's easy enough to dress like a peasant girl so you can enjoy your turkey leg in style.

Things You'll Need

• Chemise
• Bodice
• Skirts
• Roped belt
• Knickers

Instructions

1. Dress in layers. The first layer is a peasant gown. This would have served a dual purpose as nightgown and blouse. The sleeves are long and puffy, gathered at the wrists. These are usually white wool, although you can wear other muted colors such as pink.

2. Layer 2 is the skirts. Two different, muted earth tone colors of broomstick skirts will work. Cut the top skirt along the bottom into points if you like.

3. Layer 3 includes the belt and bodice. The belt is simply two or three layers of fabric braided or twisted into a rope. The bodice should be laced as tightly as you can bear. Huzzah! You are ready for the faire.

Tips & Warnings

• Use organic fabrics that would have been available at the time.

• Some women wear a muffin hat.

• Your hair can be braided, with the braids pinned up or tucked into the hat.

• Don't wear makeup.

• Do wear sunscreen. The outfits can produce unusual tan lines.

References

• Renaissance Clothing Patterns
• Tudor Links: Mapping Tudor England on the Web
• An Overview of 16th Century Fashions: In the Kitchen and Market