10 Essential Costume Accessories to Have for Renaissance Fair

June 25, 2024 4 min read

beautiful renaissance woman wearing jewelries

Ah, the Renaissance Fair! A magical time when we can all pretend we're living in a world of knights, ladies, and minstrels. But let's face it, half the fun is dressing up. You've got your basic outfit sorted, but what about those little extras that really make your costume pop? Fear not, fair gentles! We’re here to guide you through the essential accessories that'll transform you from a modern-day visitor to a true Renaissance reveler.

Headwear

Let's start at the top, shall we? Your head is prime real estate for Renaissance flair.

Circlets and Coronets

For the ladies (and some gents), a simple circlet or coronet can instantly elevate your look. Think delicate metal bands or intricate designs with faux gems. They're like tiaras, but cooler because they're historical.

Hats and Caps

Gentlemen, consider a jaunty cap or a wide-brimmed hat. Feathers optional, but highly recommended. Ladies, don't shy away from hats either - a nice wide-brimmed number can protect you from the sun and make you look incredibly elegant.

Jewelry

Now, let's talk bling. When it came to how women in the Renaissance dressed, they loved their jewelry, and so should you!

Necklaces and Pendants

A chunky pendant on a chain or a string of pearls can really complete your look. Don't be afraid to go big - subtlety wasn't really a thing back then.

Rings and Bracelets

Stack those rings and pile on the bracelets. Mix metals for an authentic look - they didn't have strict fashion rules about matching everything back then.

Belts and Pouches

Practical and stylish - what's not to love?

Decorative Belts

A wide belt cinched at the waist can completely change the silhouette of your outfit. Look for ones with intricate buckles or tooled leather designs.

Pouches and Purses

Where else are you going to keep your modern necessities? A leather pouch or drawstring bag hanging from your belt is both period-appropriate and useful.

Footwear

Now let's talk about shoes!

Boots

For both men and women, a good pair of boots is essential. Look for something with a slight heel and a pointed or rounded toe. Bonus points if they lace up!

Slippers and Flats

If boots aren't your thing, consider a pair of simple slip-on shoes or ballet-style flats. Just make sure they're comfortable - you'll be doing a lot of walking!

And let's not forget about the centerpiece of any Renaissance costume - the dress! If you're curvy and wondering how to find the perfect Renaissance dress for curvy women, check out our collection at Holy Clothing! We make all of our beautiful, flattering styles from hand and to exact size, so you can feel like a true Renaissance beauty.

Weapons and Props

Now, let's arm ourselves with some fun props!

Swords and Daggers

renaissance period weapons for costume accessories

Nothing says Renaissance quite like a sword at your hip. Just make sure it's obviously fake - we don't want any accidental duels breaking out!

Fans and Parasols

Ladies, a delicate fan or parasol can be both a practical accessory and a great prop for some playful flirting.

Cloaks and Capes

Because who doesn't want to dramatically swish around?

Full-Length Cloaks

A full-length cloak can add drama to any outfit. Plus, it's great for those chilly evenings at the fair.

Short Capes

For a less dramatic but equally stylish option, consider a short cape or capelet. It's like a cloak's sassy little sister.

Scarves and Sashes

These versatile accessories can be used in so many ways:

Neck Scarves

A simple scarf around the neck can add a pop of color and protect you from the sun.

Waist Sashes

A colorful sash tied at the waist can cinch in your outfit and add some flair.

Accessory Tips

Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about how to put it all together.

Theme Consideration

Think about what kind of character you're portraying. A noble lady will have different accessories than a tavern wench or a pirate.

Layering Effect

Don't be afraid to layer your accessories. A belt over a sash, multiple necklaces, stacked bracelets - it all adds to the rich, textured look of Renaissance fashion.

Functionality and Decoration

Remember, many Renaissance accessories served a purpose. A belt held things up, a pouch carried essentials, a cloak kept you warm. But they were also decorative. Try to strike a balance between the two.

If you're curious about how women really dressed during the Renaissance, you might want to do a bit of research on how women dress during renaissance. It's fascinating to see how fashion has evolved over the centuries!

Attention to Detail

Small details can make a big difference. A brooch pinning your cape, a ribbon tied around your wrist, or a feather tucked into your hat can all add that extra touch of authenticity.

Experimentation and Balance

Don't be afraid to try different combinations of accessories. But also remember that sometimes less is more. You want to look like a Renaissance character, not a walking jewelry box!

Final Thoughts

Remember, the most important accessory is your attitude! Embrace the spirit of the Renaissance - be bold, be merry, and have fun with your costume. Whether you're a seasoned fair-goer or a first-timer, these accessories will help you look the part and fully immerse yourself in the experience.

So go forth, my lords and ladies, armed with this knowledge of Renaissance accessories. May your outfits be splendid, your props be plenty, and your fair experience be truly magical.