On 14th Century Attire

I have a new obsession. I wonder how long it will last. Oh well, whatever. In the meantime, I’m having a blast. (Hey! That rhymes!)

As any casual reader of this blog might notice, I have some interest in medieval times and the age of Chivalry. There’s a fascination with swordplay, knights, and the lives of the royals in their magnificent castles. I’ve always been interested in these things, but of late I’ve rather allowed my interests to ‘fester’ into a full-blown obsession. Maybe it isn’t such a great thing, since I’ve been buying book after book on this topic (spending more money that I should) and have been struggling to actually do what I’m paid to do because I’d rather think about medieval Europe.

But hey, it’s not all bad. With my thoughts and focus on topics outside of the daily grind, I’ve rediscovered myself. You know, that person I was when I was younger and didn’t need to worry about mortgages or child care. My relationship with my husband has improved and I’ve actually lost a significant amount of weight. I actually feel pretty damn good! And I’m still accomplishing my daily tasks at work, it’s just the ‘extras’ that are suffering a bit. It’s all good.

So to celebrate my self-rediscovery and my 10-year anniversary, my husband and I will be attending a renewal of vows ceremony at the local Renaissance Festival. And I, in my brilliance, decided that I would prepare period costumes for my husband and me. (I thought it would be less expensive. Yeah, more on that in a moment.) I decided to go with the 14th century, as this was the peak of knightly virtues and tournaments, of kings and castles, but preceded the advent of muskets or the discovery of the New World.

Well, wouldn’t you know it, 14th century costumes are complicated. Well, not so complicated as 15th and 16th century costumes, but still complex. There are layers, and layers, and only a limited suite of textiles to choose from. The first two layers I managed to make with period materials or close facsimiles. The outermost garments, however, would require materials that I would have to special order and would be obscenely expensive, in addition to being hot, heavy, and potentially rather plain.

I finally decided to make the outer garments with 14th century style, but 21st century materials. They’re lovlier, anyway, with a silky sheen or a soft pile, and should wear better. They’re still just as heavy and hot, but they are much, much less expensive! And speaking of cost, I’m sure I’m over $200 into this project with fabric alone. Then there’s the books (gotta know what I’m doing) and the tread and the pins and the marking pencils. And I need buttons, yet. And accessories, too. We need hats or hoods. Gasp! It goes on and on.

But stay posted. The renewal of vows ceremony is on July 23rd. I have a few weeks yet to finish the costumes. So far, they look great (even if that is only my opinion). I’ll post some photos when they’re all done.

Wish me luck!