Here you can learn about what garb is, how to create it, and how to put it all together.

At my first Faire, I went in the simplest possible garb for a woman.  I wore a long, ankle brushing skirt, a poet's blouse with a drawstring neckline, soft shoes and carried a fabric purse. 

Seeing the actors and patrons in their fabulous costumes inspired me.  I began looking in Salvation Army stores, fabric stores, and even the local shopping malls for sale items.

Slowly I pieced together my first home-made garb.  You can see it here, with instructions on constructing the dress.  In my searching at Salvation Army, I came up with a very loose necked blouse with a little ruffle at the hems in a sheer soft white fabric.  It's not a full length chemise, but it gives the impression of one.  I also found a pair of black shoes that had some lacing over the instep, perfect for my Scottish character.  Underneath I wore a pair of bike shorts - they aren't period, but the are more comfortable than going completely bare legged all day!

As I continued to enjoy Faire, I decided to make a more period outfit and work on creating a character.  You can see the transition on these pages.  Every step of the way I'll guide you though what I did.  The dress looks like a lot of work went into it - and basically, it did.  But I am no sewing genius, in fact, I used a great product called hot glue to attach most of the trim!

Now I am in the midst of looking to buy more garb and work on different characters.  On my links page you will find links to several merchants, once I get their permission.  I want to get a good boned bodice and skirts for a more wenchly persona, as well as a better chemise for Lady Kirvin.

Enjoy these pages and be inspired.  Garb is a creative process in itself.

Garb basics Overview

My entrance to the world of garb; my Basic Dress page

The second year: a new modified dress and accessories

1999: Now in my 3rd year of garb creation, I modified
         the second year dress and added more accessories

Pattern references: There are many mass produced and easily accessible patterns out there.  This is a guide to the best, though at the moment it focuses on Simplicity brand patterns.

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