Costume - The Basics

The Strangehaven setting is a fully integrated part of the Shards world background and players may choose to play characters who are from anywhere in the Shards world.

Shards (and Strangehaven), is a high fantasy setting with each region in the Shards representing a selection of different peoples which roughly mirror similar cultures which may have been found at various periods throughout Earth history while also incorporating an element of fantasy, myth and legend. Dependent on a character's Shard (or continent) of origin, cultural influences and any twists either introduced in play or written into your background, you should choose your costume to reflect the personality and background of the character you are playing.

Obviously, if you look like the type of character you are playing, NPCs and other player characters are more likely to react accordingly, which can make portraying the character a lot easier. How far you as a player go in achieving your character's look is left entirely to your discretion but if you do need specific advice please contact us as to what is or is not appropriate.

Some very basic tips for those new to costuming for a LARP event are...

• Invest in a simple cotton shirt, in either white or black and a pair of black trousers or leggings as the basic under layer for your costume. For the ladies, a plain, full, ankle or floor length skirt can also come in handy as an alternative to trousers.
• Avoid jeans if you can.
• Similarly, avoid trainers or similar sports shoes, instead opt for plain black or brown shoes or boots; leather walking boots are ideal.

Once you have your basic under layer of clothing, you can dress it with outer layers appropriate to the character you are portraying and in-keeping with your background.

Roleplayers are usually on a continuous lookout for new 'kit' which can be used to portray any character they have in mind, but the following are your basic options when engaged in the search for more kit...

• Charity Shops can sometimes turn up some gems for those who are looking to outfit a particular look.
• Specialist clothing suppliers aimed at niche markets often base their garments on historical clothing and so you may turn up something appropriate there.
• Re-enactment or living history costumers do exist, who make costume to supply the re-enactment market. These suppliers usually stock generic items and will make up any specialist costume if commissioned to do so.
• Make your own, is always an option for those who are skilled in needlecrafts or feeling adventurous and want something custom made, just for them.

Links to specialist suppliers of costume and kit can be found in the Shards wiki.