I am interested in garb and cosplay for local ren fairs and cons that come to my area. I have always been a fan of LOTR and ultimately I would like to build a kit that mimics Strider's style in the Fellowship of the Ring. I would like to at least get a good base to build off of first though as I source pieces from the web. I would prefer to buy as many pieces As possible due to my busy work schedule. My main problem at this point would be that I don't have a proper understanding of how base layering works all the way up to outer layers and leather. I can't tell from pictures what belongs where and would appreciate some insight on how to build a proper kit. I have been through a few of the approved websites but it's a little overwhelming. I know most of this stuff is trial and error so I figured I would ask the pros how they would do it. Like I said, I'd like to build a ranger/woodsman kit that would mimic strider in the first part of the fellowship( mostly black and dark Browns, very little leather armor) minus my weapon and other large accessories I am working with a budget of about 6 to 8 hundred dollars. Thank you and please help me spend my money wisely!
http://36.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m97zmsh2WF1rewapio1_1280.jpg (http://36.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m97zmsh2WF1rewapio1_1280.jpg)
Pic for reference
Greetings! Welcome to the RF forums!
From the reference photo christianjones provided-looks like 4 basic parts:
Black fitted breeches, black leather or canvas jerkin with frog closures, and a black leather duster length coat along with a pair of fold over pirate boots.
These are the only visible parts-what you wear under them is up to you; but I would invest in a simple natural fiber ren shirt so that you can ditch the jacket if needed and you aren't standing around in a T-shirt with a Jerkin over it.
All have been 'distressed' to look well used and dirty.
IMHO- Looks uncomfortably hot for summer.
I would find pair of cotton breeches like these:
http://www.osc.faireladiesfairelords.com/product_info.php?cPath=4&products_id=71&osCsid=8bu2b367498hp0eqmm5gb0gii7 (http://www.osc.faireladiesfairelords.com/product_info.php?cPath=4&products_id=71&osCsid=8bu2b367498hp0eqmm5gb0gii7)
Jerkin: http://www.tudorshoppe.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=A24-116&Category_Code=DJ (http://www.tudorshoppe.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=A24-116&Category_Code=DJ)
I would google the coat- there are a few leather makers who recreate movie pieces.
Do the same for the fold over boots-lots of vendors make them.
thanks for the reply. looking in to your suggestions
Hope I am not too late to chime in. This site is very helpful for LOTR fans. Check this site out for DIY Costumes. Information on detail, etc.
http://www.alleycatscratch.com/lotr/Human/Aragorn.htm (http://www.alleycatscratch.com/lotr/Human/Aragorn.htm)
(http://www.alleycatscratch.com/lotr/Human/Aragorn/Strider/Str_8583_TornLon_med.jpg)