How to Make a Norwegian Boy Costume
Norwegian costumes, both male and female, are recognizable by their old-world folk appearance. Norway's folk costumes, or bunad, are usually connected with an individual rural region. Characterized by elaborately embroidered designs, bunad is worn on holidays and special occasions. Male outfits for adults and children usually consist of a shirt, double-breasted vest and jacket, black hat, tassels on knickers that fall just below the knee, white stockings and buckled shoes. A combination of unique pieces and easy substitutions will help you make a convincing Norwegian boy costume.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Long-sleeved white shirt
- Black knickers
- Vest
- Jacket
- Black hat
- Long white socks
- Black shoes
- Strip of embroidered trim
- 2 tassels
Instructions
-
-
1
Get a long-sleeved white shirt with a stand-up collar. Puffy sleeves and a rounded collar are preferable but not necessary, since most of the shirt is hidden beneath the jacket. You can cut off the collar points on a regular white shirt.
-
2
Find a pair of black knickers. If you can't find knickers, buy full-length trousers in a thrift shop, and cut off the legs just below the knees. Turn over the fabric at the ends, and run a long thin strip of leftover black fabric through so you can tighten the legs. Sew red tassels to the side of either pant leg. You can also add an embroidered strip of fabric to the bottom of the pant legs.
-
-
3
Take a black jacket, squaring off the bottom edges so it falls to the waist. It should be double-breasted with two rows of buttons. Sew on two matching rows of buttons if necessary.
-
4
Create an authentic-looking Norwegian vest by using a plain dark vest. Add two rows of buttons to make it double-breasted. You can also add embroidered trim anywhere on the vest. Turn down the collar into two points, adding trim or buttons to the collar if you like.
-
5
Make a black hat using a round straight brim and flat crown. Buy one and cut it to the correct shape. Add a band of embroidery at the base of the crown.
-
6
Get a pair of heavy black shoes. Attach a silver buckle to the tops, or use cardboard and tinfoil to make buckles. Add a pair of long white socks or white stockings to complete the look.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Red plaid is another authentic option for a boy's vest. Touches of embroidery can be added almost anywhere on the bunad for authenticity. Designs vary and include flowers and plaids.
