How to Make a Gypsy Outfit

A gypsy outfit includes bright colors and various accessories.

As nomadic wanderers of the world, gypsies are secretive and intriguing people with a distinct wardrobe. Wearing colorful clothing, gypsies are easily recognizable, but often considered outsiders by locals. If you want to stand out, borrow some fashion ideas from gypsies or put on a gypsy outfit for your next costume party. Scour your closets and head to the thrift store to get all you need for this vibrant outfit.

Things You'll Need

• 2 long skirts
• Peasant blouse
• Corset or vest
• Large scarf
• Head scarf
• Accessories
• Sandals
• Button-up shirt
• Vest
• Pants
• Rectangular scarf
• Bandanna
• Boots, sandals or shoes

Instructions

Female Gypsy Outfit

1. Put on a long colorful flowing skirt. Layer on another long skirt of a different color. Cotton and chiffon are ideal fabrics.

2. Put on a colorful peasant blouse with puffed sleeves, with either long sleeves or short sleeves. Tuck the blouse into your skirt.

3. Put on a corset or vest over your blouse.

4. Take a large colorful or patterned square scarf and fold it in half diagonally. Wrap the folded scarf around your waist and tie it in a knot at your side.

5. Braid your hair if it's long enough. If not, leave your hair down.

6. Fold a large square scarf in half diagonally. Place the folded edge of the scarf against your forehead and wrap the scarf around your head. Tie the two wrapped ends of the scarf around the back of your head.

7. Accessorize your outfit with metallic bangles, beaded bracelets and anklets. Put on a pair of strapped sandals.

Male Gypsy Outfit

1. Put on a colorful, loose-fitting button-up shirt with a collar. Put on a leather or thick cotton vest over your shirt. Leave the vest unbuttoned.

2. Put on a pair of cotton, polyester or linen pants that fit loosely around the legs. Tuck in your shirt.

3. Take a long, brightly colored rectangular scarf or piece of fabric and wrap it around your waist. Tie the ends of the scarf together at your side and let the ends hang.

4. Fold a large solid-colored bandanna in half diagonally. Place the folded edge of the bandanna against your forehead and wrap it around your head. Tie the two wrapped ends of the bandanna around the back of your head.

5. Put on a pair of leather boots, sandals or shoes. If you have pierced ears, put one hoop earring in one ear.

Tips & Warnings

• Experiment with bright colors for your outfit, but stay away from earth tones and neon shades.

• Avoid wearing bright red, because gypsies associate it with blood. Dark red is acceptable.

References

• Westwood; A Basic Guide to Period Gypsy Costuming for Renaissance Faires; Matthew Duvall; 2003
• Larp: The Gypsy!
• Larp: Clothing and Food