Faires are for every body, and period-style clothing is kinder to real bodies than most modern fashion: laced fronts, drawstring waists, full skirts and loose shirts all adjust to fit. This guide covers how to find your size, which cuts help, and which of our pieces have the most room.
In short
- Buy by your measurements, not by a size letter. Charts differ from maker to maker.
- Look for lacing, drawstrings and ties. They give you extra range.
- A long open layer, such as an overcoat or cloak, makes a strong vertical line.
- Not sure? Send us your measurements and we'll suggest a size.
Start with your measurements
Measure your bust, waist and hips, and your height. Then compare them with the chart on the product page, and check whether it lists body measurements or garment measurements. Garment measurements should be a few centimetres bigger than your body, so the piece can move. If you are between two sizes, or plan to wear a blouse underneath, take the larger size. Our measuring guide shows how.
Pieces with the most room
- Square-Neck Lace-Up Renaissance Dress: XS to 3XL, bust up to 118 cm (46.5 in), with lacing down the front.
- Viking Satin Gown with Laced Bodice: XS to XXXL by body measurement, bust up to 120 cm (47.2 in) and hips up to 128 cm (50.4 in).
- Renaissance Shirt with Laced Sleeves: S to 5XL, bust up to 151 cm (59.4 in). Loose and long, for men and women.
- Short-Sleeve V-Neck Tunic: S to 3XL, chest up to 152 cm (59.8 in).
- Sleeveless Hooded Overcoat: S to 3XL, chest up to 144 cm, open at the front.
- Lace-Hem Cotton Petticoat: comes in a plus fit, in lengths from 75 to 100 cm.
- Drawstring Ramie Skirt: one size with a drawstring waist.
- Hooded cloaks such as the Hooded Ranger Cloak are one size and fit most bodies.
For belts, longer is better: the Multi-Cord Ring Belt is 158 cm long in total and the Embossed Waist Bag Belt is 145 cm. Some of our slim leather belts come in one shorter length, so check the length on the product page.
Pieces with room
Cuts that help
- Laced fronts adjust by several centimetres and give shape without squeezing.
- Full skirts move well and are comfortable to sit in all day.
- Open long layers such as an overcoat or a cloak make a long vertical line.
- A belt at the natural waist or just above it defines the outline. A low, loose belt works over tunics.
- Full sleeves on a shirt or blouse balance the shoulders and hips.
Comfort for a long day
- Wear light shorts or leggings under skirts to stop chafing.
- Choose cotton and linen blends on warm days. They breathe.
- Gaiters such as the Lace-Up Studded Gaiters fit calves from 31 to 45 cm and turn any boot into a costume boot.
Ask before you order
If a chart leaves you unsure, write to us at support@larplay.com with your measurements and the piece you like. We'll tell you which size to choose, or if it won't fit well.
Questions people ask
Where can I find plus-size Renaissance faire clothing?
Look for laced, drawstring and one-size pieces first, and always check the garment measurements. Many of our shirts, tunics and dresses go up to 3XL, and the laced shirt goes up to 5XL.
Should I size up?
If you're between sizes, or want to layer, yes. Period-style clothing is meant to be roomy.
