Debating on color scheme

[RoboRob]

Hello!!

I've been "morphing" my basic attire over the past few years and want to know if going all black is always the best way to go.  I'm debating on getting a white shirt to wear under my sleeveless black surcoat, jsut to add some contrast to the whole garb.  any sugestions or thoughts would be appreciative.

[Lady Kathleen of Olmsted]

Welcome to the community, RoboRob.

Some questions to ask in order to offer assistance.....

What type of garb do you wear?

What is your Character persona?

How often do you dress up in garb?

This will help us help you in choosing a color scheme for garb that best fits you.

[isabelladangelo]

Yes, white shirt!

Two reasons:  One, it's more H/A.   The only two colors known to e worn -in period- against the skin (ie, shifts, shirts, underwear, ect) was white and safforn yellow.  Only the Irish are said to have worn the safforn.  The reason is very simple - dyes were known to bleed.   If you sweat into your shirt, like you are supposed to, and it had any color, that color would end up on your skin.  Not a big deal if you are pale as can be and you have yellow on but it is a big deal if you wear black against your skin.   It has sort of that permanent marker affect. 

Second one is actually safety.   Most faires go until it's dark.  Imagine stumbling out into the parking lot, at night, in all black garb.   The cars will not be able to see you until they are right on top of you. 

The visual contrast will also help for other people to see you better as well and take more notice of the details in your outfit. 

[amy]

Most agreed.. White is completely correct.. but if you are not worried about accuracy and just want to look GREAT, then feel free to use what you like!   Show us a shot of the garb to this point and lets suggest maybe something to go with another piece or maybe your eyes!

[DonaCatalina]

Got any photos?
It would probably help us suggest something. Black may not be your color after all. 
But yes, I think at least a white shirt is the way to go.

[RoboRob]

Here are two pictures I could find taht have me completely in the picture.  Granted, I was a bit heavier during this time but you see the garb nonetheless.
The staples in my garb are my hat, the boots and pants.
I try to go with the cavalier or highwayman personal, but think I may be too dark for that.  My wife jokes that I look like a "Musketeer reject"..still trying to figure that out.
The TRF runs from Oct. through Nov.  I usually get to go at least twice during that time.
hope some of this helps.

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/15343_1055868332206_1690793608_105662_161452_n.jpg
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/15343_1055868572212_1690793608_105668_3962400_n.jpg

[operafantomet]

I think it's largely your tall black boots and the shape of the hat that gives 17th century Musketeer vibes. You can play these up by adding more decorations.

I'm seeing white shirt (for the many reasons Isabella mentioned) and large ostrich feathers in your hat. Maybe a large, white collar and white cuffs. A dramatic silk sash belt in your waist, or a belt with large buckle. Could you also fold the top of your boots down a bit? Think these: 



http://lisahistory.net/hist104/pw/fashion/1630.jpg

[DonaCatalina]

This portrait would be about the same time frame as the one posted above.

You can see the similarity in styling....white shirt, colorful sash and white collar.

[isabelladangelo]

http://www.peterpaulrubens.org/Self-Portrait.html  You'll probably want to go similar to this.  Although his cape is in the way, what he's wearing is a large ruff, a white shirt, a doublet, and matching black sleeves.  Sleeves were meant to be laced on or off as the weather changed. 

http://www.peterpaulrubens.org/Self-Portrait-1628-30.html   You might like this one as well since there isn't any ruff.   He just has on a collared shirt beneath his doublet and sleeves.   

Check out the entire site there since there are a lot of paintings that should be good for inspiration. 

[amy]

Yep.. White would be perfect.. but I like color too, so might suggest something like a saffron gold.  That might add to the devil may care attitude.  Buckles and Sashes and feathers will be fun to add to this basic set too.   Have fun!

[RoboRob]

Wow...Im feelin the love here!  Thank you all for the feedback!!
I actually decided on purchasing a white shirt, so that is done.  I like the idea of the sash and wonder if I should go with a silver color to compliment the trim on the hat and whatever silver buckles I may have. 
Again, thank you all and I'm getting really excited!!

[CecilyWilkins]

Wow...Im feelin the love here!  Thank you all for the feedback!!
I actually decided on purchasing a white shirt, so that is done.  I like the idea of the sash and wonder if I should go with a silver color to compliment the trim on the hat and whatever silver buckles I may have. 
Again, thank you all and I'm getting really excited!!

Let us know when you get the rest of your new garb. I'd love to see it, as I'm sure everyone else would!

[RoboRob]

Best picture of myself completely in the picture, I'm on the left. Tried a silver and black silk sash and a friend let me borrow thier silver pendant.  Wasn't sure it would work out but I figured what the heck!  This was during All Hallows Eve weekend at Texas RenFest.

[DonaCatalina]

Looks like it works to me !

[Marietta Graziella]

The best part about having a black base is your accessories and detail pieces can be any color! 

Find something splashy and wonderful for a sash, choose a complimentary feather for your hat.
Accent with a stunning pouch and matching hat band.
Tie a bold silk scarf at your knee or on your boot and a contrasting beaded broach for your doublet.

Don't worry so much about matching your buttons or trim, find something you love and go with it!