The best Renaissance faire outfit is one you can walk, sit and laugh in all day. These seven looks go from the classic blouse and laced dress to elf, ranger and Viking styles. Each one is built from a few pieces, so you can start simple and add more next time.
In short
- The classic look is a full-sleeved blouse under a laced dress or bodice, with a long skirt.
- Ankle-length hems are the easiest to live in on grass and dirt paths.
- A pouch on your belt replaces the pockets your garb doesn't have.
- Go by measurements, not the size letter, and size up if you plan to layer.
1. The classic: blouse and laced dress
This is the look most people picture. A white Flared-Sleeve Renaissance Blouse with its off-shoulder neckline sits under the Square-Neck Lace-Up Renaissance Dress, which laces down the front and comes in black, green, grey and red. Add a Thin Braided Leather Belt and a Leather Drawstring Coin Pouch, and you are ready.
2. The folk look: full skirt and laced vest
The Full-Skirt Dress and Laced Vest is a two-piece outfit on its own: a long-sleeved dress with a full skirt, and a short laced vest over it. Wear the Lace-Hem Cotton Petticoat underneath so a little lace shows at the hem. It adds fullness and a light extra layer on cool mornings.
3. Mix and match: blouse and skirt
The most flexible outfit of all. Pair the blouse with the Drawstring Ramie Skirt, which comes in fifteen colours and ties at the waist. Add a Slim Leather Tie Belt, or the Corset Belt Set with Bottle Holder if you want more shape at the waist. Change the skirt colour and you have a new outfit.
4. Elf
The Hooded Elf Dress Costume Set does it all in one order: a hooded dress with a high-low hem, a lace-up corset belt, a ring belt with pouch, laced bracers, socks, a head chain, elf ears and earrings. Swap the head chain for the Knotwork Circlet with Medallion for a more woodland feel. More ideas in the elf costume guide.
5. Ranger
A ranger outfit is practical, which makes it one of the most comfortable things to wear at a faire. Layer the Sleeveless Hooded Overcoat over a blouse and trousers, cinch it with a corset belt, and add a Laced Wrist Guard and Mid-Calf Lace-Up Boots. See the ranger outfit guide.
6. Viking or shieldmaiden
The Viking Satin Gown with Laced Bodice is a fantasy take on a Viking look rather than a historical copy, and it makes an entrance. Add a Wolf and Hammer Bracer and the Thin Celtic Knotwork Headband. Read more in the Viking women's clothing guide.
7. Witch or dark fantasy
Choose the laced dress in black, add a black Velvet Hooded Cloak and a Round Potion Bottle with Belt Holder. On a hot day, carry the cloak and wear it for photos.
Shop the classic pieces
Comfort tips for a full day
- Under the skirt: light shorts or leggings stop chafing on a long, warm walk.
- Fabric: the laced dress is a cotton-linen blend and the ramie skirt is a plant fibre, so both breathe. The flared blouse is polyester with a little stretch: easy to wash and pack, but warmer than cotton on a very hot day.
- Hem length: a hem that clears the ground stays clean. If a skirt is long for you, tie it a little higher at the waist.
- Shoes: flat boots or shoes you have already walked in. See the boots guide.
- Shape without a corset: a laced dress or a corset belt gives a defined waist and is far cooler than a full corset. More in corset vs bodice.
Getting the size right
Check the size chart on each product page against your own bust, waist and hips. The laced dress runs from XS to 3XL (bust 90 to 118 cm), and the satin gown from XS to XXXL. If you are between sizes, or want to wear a blouse underneath, choose the larger size. Our measuring guide takes five minutes. Looking for more room? Read plus-size Renaissance faire outfits.
Questions people ask
What should a woman wear to a Renaissance faire?
A loose blouse, a laced dress or skirt, a belt with a pouch and comfortable flat boots. Add a cloak, bracers or a circlet if you want a character.
Do I need a corset?
No. A laced dress or a corset belt gives the same outline, is easier to wear all day and is much cooler in summer.
Can I wear the same outfit to a LARP event?
Yes, especially the ranger, elf and Viking looks. Add sturdier boots for woods and fields.
