FIT FOR THE FAIRE

by Macy Kissel

What should thine wear to a festival of Renaissance? First ye need to decide where ye belong in the social order.

 

Would ye be a grand lord or lady?

Those who could afford it wore a rich range of colourful silks, velvets, taffetas, tapestry, and fine wools. The gentry were not outfit repeaters, often throwing out dresses after one use. In fact, the aristocracy may have been the first fast-fashion influencers. Since there were no Urban Outfitters in the 15th century, many of the fabrics were plain and in one color. This lead to accessorizing becoming the name of the game, prompting beautiful embroidery, applique, quilting, braiding, button work, and lace that added texture and detail to the many outfits. 

Under Elizabethan law, every person over the age of 13 was required to wear a hat in public; they were a sign of high class and rank.

 

Good ‘morrow to you, good squire or dame!

The Renaissance Era’s middle class was made out of merchants and tradesmen who rose high in skill and therefore had a bit more money to spend than the common folk. Their dressing textures were a mix of their surrounding classes. 

Headware in this class was more of wrapped headcloths, small caps, and woven headbands. On festival days, it was common for young unmarried girls to wear flower garlands in their hair. 

 

Greetings, patient herdsman and sultry milkmaid. 

Many a peasant did not have the money to afford to stay with the trends and often wore clothes passed down century after century. It was difficult to distinguish the country folk from the 1400s and 1500s, as their dressings are exactly the same. Clothing materials included hand woven wools, linens, cottons, and leathers. Dyes came from natural materials like vegetables, flowers, and minerals. 

Feathers were a great touch to any hat. The lower class wore plain feathers such as goose, duck, chicken, or grouse. Pheasants were considered a delicacy and any commoner caught wearing one would be labeled a ‘poacher’ and could be put to death. So much for yankee doodle. 

We invite thee to peruse our fine selection of Renaissance clothing fit for any Queen, merchant, or lowly peasant. Fare thee well; we must away!