First Timer - Need Advice

[Aelynn of Georgina]

Hello!  I have always been interesting in garbing and attending faires, but have never had the time (or nerve) to go.  I am finally taking the plunge and have plans to attend my first Ren Faire.   I have made a costume (http://www.mccallpattern.com/item/M4490.htm?tab=costumes&page=5 - the bottom right, with the long sleeves).  I've added a little bit of simple trim around the collar and sleeves, but now that I read here, I realize it may be more appropriate for a Medieval Faire than Ren Faire.  My personal style leans more toward fantasy, but I don't want to be snarked, especially behind my back.  Is there anything I can do to add or alter (simply) this costume to make it more period appropriate? 

Any help will be appreciated. Thanks!

[Celtic_Fae]

The nice thing about Renaissance faires is that there is a lot of fantasy there: fae, wizards, elves, we had Ents at ours this past year. I don't think you have to worry. Yes, at any faire there will be garb snarks. That is just a fact of life: there are mean-spirited people anywhere you go. But the main point is to find and surround yourself with good people and friends and to have fun (and STAY HYDRATED...lol).

[Genievea Brookstone]

Hi there! I wear a similar dress to this and was given more compliments than i would have imagined. I made a simple belt with the left over trim I had wore a simple rose necklace on a length of leather ,boots and a fan.

I will have to attach photos later.

[Aelynn of Georgina]

Thanks for the quick responses! I feel much better now.  I'll be sure to post pics after the faire.

[Celtic Lady]

The pattern has long sleeves that are very similar to the ones on my wedding dress that is being made. I like it.

[Bonny Pearl]

Snark schmark I say!  Faire IS fantasy.  Wear what you like and are most comfy in. 

[Lady Renee Buchanan]

I bought that same pattern (and have been going to Renaissance Faires since 1980).  When I finally learn to sew - I've been talking about it for 3 years already - I plan to make that and wear it to our faire, which is Renaissance and not Medieval.  It's so pretty, enjoy yourself looking beautiful in it and have fun!   

[LadyShadow]

I've debated about getting that pattern.  Or do I already own it?  Either way.  I usually just make whatever I like and want and everyone else can just kiss off.  I dont feel that I'm going to faire to impress someone or make them happy.  I'm going cuse I enjoy it.  So do what makes you happy.   And I cant wait to see finished pics.

[Genievea Brookstone]

These aren't the best but gives you an idea what that dress looks like, though the sleeves on mine are 2 parts.  Sorry I don't have a better picture of the dress on.

[Lady Anne Clare]

That is a beautiful gown!  I love the color combination and the trim.

[Genievea Brookstone]

Thank you!

I was really worried that when I made it that it was too *costume* like.  But many of the merchants and faire *cast* made lots of possitive comments on it so I was thrilled!

[Auryn]

Don't even worry about it.

the people that gripe about other ppl not being Historically accurate at faire are few and far between and not worth your time or thought.
I second the feeling that you should wear what you like and feel comfortable in.

Genievea
beautiful dress, love the trim.

[Sitara]

I made that same dress, sans sleeves for my step-daughter. It is lovely and she receives many compliments when she wears it.

[Anna Iram]

I agree it really doesn't matter so long as you enjoy wearing it. Most faires have a mix of all different styles worn by fairgoers.

I'm posting this link to give you an idea of how you might trim it. You might also want to make a belt using the trim as a simple solution or if you are really feeling adventursome you could fashion a belt from beadwork and chain.

http://www.pearsonsrenaissanceshoppe.com/FairLadyDress.html

Have fun.

[DragonWing]

I agree with everyone else. Go as you want to go and enjoy. I go as a wizard and I have no problems doing so. I may try HA some time but right now I am good with my persona.