I'm in need of ideas for simple garb. Most of what I wear seems to consist of at least 5-8 pieces and some days that just more effort than I want to put forth. I'd love ideas for a simple dress or 2-3 piece garb ideas. I'm open to just about anything. My current garb list includes steampunk explorer, bellydancer, fairy pirate, steampunk bellydancer & pirate.
I wore this to Bristol last year in the one weekend of dreadful heat. A long chemise with an overdress that was open up the sides and just had grommets underneath the arms and laced on both sides. It was so easy. No hoop skirt, no tight bodice, using the privies was never easier.
Mine was a black velvet dress that I bought at Goodwill for $4. You can add trim to dress up or keep it simple. If you make it in twill or lightweight material, it will be even cooler than the velvet.
I hear you, Cowgrrl! A few years ago now, I decided to make a dress that was super easy to get on and comfortable to wear on the hottest, yuckiest days. I made an "Irish style" dress of linen with clasps up the front (LOTS easier than laces!):
(http://pic50.picturetrail.com/VOL417/1033223/17691164/275717820.jpg)
Chemise, dress, DONE. It's almost *too* easy! I've worn the heck out of it, and it's really my go-to garb.
I've never seen a commercially-sold Irish gown with clasps instead of laces, but there are *lots* of places that sell the "Irish" style overgown. One I know of from KCRF is T'ger Toggs (http://www.tgertoggs.com/index.shtml):
(http://www.tgertoggs.com/pics/products/yoke2_l.jpg)
I 2nd the Irish style of dress. I have made 3 so far, all with laces, but still so very very simple to wear. I do wear underskirts but you certainly don't have to. Cool, comfortable, and oh so very simple.
I really want to see like harem pants or something with an irish dress it make sense in my head.. haven't gotten around to getting/making a pair for my friend who has the dress for it to look right, but i'd need to accessorize her too...
When I don't feel like dealing with a corset and farthingale and all the layers I wear one of my linen Italian dresses that I made for SCA camping. When it's really hot I just wear my black gauze lace trimmed Moresca chemise top and bloomers with a lighter corset style bodice and rope sandals and call myself a pirate!