10 Medieval Fantasy Costume MISTAKES (and how to AVOID them)

[@LivingAnachronism]

Join the brand new Discord!: discord.gg/dJyzMgmZ2p And if you are interested, help support me on Patreon! 🔰🔰 www.patreon.com/LivingAnachronism ****Don't forget your Patreon and Discord have to be linked if you want to recieve the appropriate roles!

[@SianiAnne]

Joined up on Discord. Patreon has to wait a bit, sorry.

[@wildweekly7304]

Gandalf the grey: it has blown up

[@Matsudai]

Joined and posting stuff. Lol

[@dannietuggle8954]

Ok I’m new to discord. I only know one definition. I’m sure that not how they are using it. My questions are, is it an app? Is there a monthly fee to join discord? (I know to join you is free) is it like Facebook or MySpace?

[@dannietuggle8954]

Are you on basic discord or do I need nitro?

[@valkyrie1066]

I fell down a ravine in borrowed armor. Not only could I not see; but I ended up with a lot of bruises, pinches and soft tissue damage FROM the armor. I was carried off the field with all the equipment the bored EMT's had to offer....paraded through the event on a stretcher. The embarrassment was real. I returned to work on crutches. When they asked what happened, I told them I was injured in battle. I got weird ENOUGH looks without telling them it was the armor that actually damaged me. Now, that said, the following year I returned with a Squire's Belt. I don't fight anymore; I can't risk the damage on my aging body.But YES DEAR GODS battle in armor that FITS you, or it could in and of itself, be your greatest downfall!!!!

[@rangereview4590]

You're that person that was sent to ask the Spartan team if they wanted to surrender right?

[@A_Medieval_Shadow]

I had similar experiences. I bought secondhand armorpieces from all fleemarkets I could find on FB and wearing them was sobering. Some pieces pinched my skin needlessly, my motions were limited because of the "One size fits all"measurements of the armor pieces and overall, it really felt like a burden. Nowadays, after spending a good amount of money into armor thats fitted to my measurement I can say, it is really worth the money. There is another kind of satisfaction in wearing it. Even the Protection feels better because everything is in place where it is supposed to be.👍

[@valkyrie1066]

@@A_Medieval_Shadow You !got it! I know I'm not the only one, armor bites are a common problem!

[@valkyrie1066]

@@rangereview4590 Nope, wasn't me. Darius asked me to do it and I threw myself off a mountain to avoid the errand....

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

I'm sorry that happened to you. I'm an armourer and do live steel exhibition fighting in mine, I won't lend it to someone it doesn't fit them acceptably, it's adjustable to a certain extent but a lot of my pieces are custom-sized because I'm small. My husband's armour is also custom-sized in the opposite direction, I used the "standard" elbow piece for my knees, and he used the "standard" knee piece for his elbows, and I can put his knee armour on my head... Every suit of armour we make is customized to the wearer, but even having made my own armour, I won't do certain things in it, like a backroll, and I let anyone borrowing it know to let their opponent know its limitations for safety reasons. I know I don't have the mobility to take the falls I can do without, and there's no way I'd get on a horse in it if there was any chance I'd come off. I know it would hurt me more to land in my armour than without. I still get the odd armour bite if I'm not very clear to my squire how to put on the bits I can't reach myself, but that's on me, not them.

[@ScribeAdept]

First (second and third) impression of Version 1 of the larp kit - the hat made you look like a fresh-faced, newly minted officer who'd never served in the field but was determined to look spiffy. Version 2 with the hood - more practical, seasoned, and at ease. Your headgear really did make that much of a visual difference.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Agreed

[@karladenton5034]

Totally agree. The hat reminds me of the Army beret that we love to hate LOL. My Marines (my son and his buddies) mock that headgear mercilessly.

[@Wirrn]

Interesting, I actually thought it was the opposite direction, the hat made him look too much like a professional mercenary for me

[@lucyp1371]

Addition to point 7: practice going to the loo in your kit, as you would do at the event! Nothing sucks worse than going for your first visit to the toilet and realising you have to take off four layers of belts, shirts, cloaks etc just to do your business. Especially if you’re at a festival LARP with portaloos, and they’re gross and muddy with no space to manoeuvre and nowhere clean to put your removed items.

[@audoldends6799]

God, you're so real for this 😂😭

[@zxyatiywariii8]

Absolutely. I think it's a bit easier for women (like me) even with multiple layers of skirts and underskirts, but it's still a good idea to practice. No one wants to end up trailing part of their carefully-acquired clothing into a loo, especially towards the end of the day, when they're quite full.

[@toompyfloyd4074]

As an armourer and blacksmith, this was quite good! good on you brother.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thanks! Great to hear I'm on the right track!

[@ThePageTurnerPT]

The reason why Beryl's outfit looks better/more comfortable is because of the hood. The hat makes it look really formal, like he's a marine or something in his Class A uniform and is expected to be formal all the time. The hood instead of the hat really takes away that formal feeling and makes it seem more functional/practical and meant for field use and less like it's to look fancy

[@LivingAnachronism]

Really great analysis. Ineed felt very formal, and felt the need to be a soldier and follow orders, which stood in direct contrast to my also wanting to be a leader.

[@EricaSalzman]

That is so true. The hat does make it seem more formal, and less practical.

[@fauxmarmorer9544]

I would also say the layer over the breastplate, it looks less soldier and more wanderer

[@markfergerson2145]

I looked at that change and recognized something felt different but couldn't articulate it. You nailed it. That can carry over into other things like plain fabric vs brocade, plain leather vs engraved, plain vs fancy weapons and so forth to mark social class, and fancy dress vs work or traveling clothing and gear. Thanks for that.

[@AvenueStudios]

Amazing how just a piece or two can change the whole feel of the outfit! -Dan

[@englishlady9797]

I love how you use Rings of Power for your examples of poorly designed armour. Never stop bullying that series.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Yes

[@EricaSalzman]

I think that people simply using something popular and well-loved, like Tolkien, to simply make money (like Amazon seems to be doing) shows that they do not really care about being accurate...or that they do not care about Tolkien's world.

[@vojtablbosti747]

@@EricaSalzman It is {not intelligent} people without respect creating content so that they make money from Netflix in hope enough people will watch it there. JRRT is just a brand that is attracting people and they don't care about what was he saying. If the series didn't have the brand, nobody would care about it. Very sad...

[@EricaSalzman]

@@vojtablbosti747 That is true.

[@whyukraine]

Viva La Dirt League, a KZbin comedy channel, has better costuming than billion $ scamazon.

[@WARobertsonMMII]

1.Commenting for the algorithm. 2. Super excited for the discord server, can’t wait to talk with everyone there.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Replying for the algorithm. Can't wait!

[@imahoare4742]

Gotta say you're one of my favorite medieval channels on yt right now. Really like your style and aesthetic, as well as the information being presented in both historical and fictional context.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thank you so much Ima!

[@Anttimation]

@@LivingAnachronism I would like to add your presentation style being very pleasant, harsh criticism where it's justified but never coming across as arrogant or needlessly raging. Excellent stuff.

[@LuxisAlukard]

Pro tip for fantasy costumes: If you look like a character from RoP - you are doing everything wrong!

[@DH-xw6jp]

*[Mortal Kombat announcer]:* _Brutality!_

[@MiaogisTeas]

Or Wheel of Time, the Witcher... basically anything released in the past ten years. Everything looks brand new and poorly designed. It's terrible.

[@georgeoldsterd8994]

Unless you actually want to look like RoP, for whatever reason.

[@1SportyBoy]

@@georgeoldsterd8994 what is RoP?

[@georgeoldsterd8994]

@@1SportyBoy I don't know, really, people keep bringing it up as an example of bad everything, but I just can't put my finger on it. 🤔

[@merlynb2118]

You mentioned speaking to people that have gear and garb that you admire. As a long time re-creationist and SCAdian I have to encourage everyone to do this. Most people enjoy sharing about their experiences and talents and are happy to help out, if not totally enthusiastic to do so. It's a major part of what makes the whole thing so much fun. Events that have artisans and merchants also offer the opportunity to make connections with great sources for unique and custom made pieces. I have made life long friends with some of the ones I have met and even worked with a few.

[@samuelpierce639]

Aside from Halloween, I haven’t played dress up since I was a kid. But whenever I see a new video from this guy, I never select “watch later.” Love it!

[@shaunhall960]

So when I started playing in the SCA I was a teenager and didn't have a lot of money but thankfully people in the society helped me out and gave me what I needed to fight and be authentic at the same time. Don't be afraid to ask for help and talk with the veterans who run these types of organizations. They care deeply and want new people to experience the fun. Be safe, do your homework and above all be honorable!

[@jonathonsimons114]

First, I wanna say congrats on the success of the channel! I've been a long-time subscriber and I love to see how much the channel and community have grown. I've been working on the same kit for about one year now, mixing and matching pieces until it feels right and your videos on garb and costume design have really helped me with that. so, I'm glad to say that my first ever medieval "Viking" costume is entirely complete. Thanks again for all the help you've given with your videos, and please keep up the amazing work.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thanks so much for your support Jonathon, really glad my videos helped you!

[@seosaidh]

Really enjoyed this. I appreciate the “get going on it.” Warden Miller used to say about skiing “Get out there and do it. If you don’t, you’ll be one year older when you do.” Definitely applies here.

[@dragonobskuritas]

The 3 main differences that I recognised about your two versions of the cosume are: 1, having a sword seems more appropriate for a captain. 2, the hood is very practical for rangers (practical in general, to be honest). 3. the hat made you look more like a tradesman, rather than a ranger. Version two appears more practical for someone who works in the wilderness. That aside, awesome content, thank you for doing what you do. Big, strong and fluffy dragon hug for all of you.

[@denvergoudeau]

Fantastic video! I think we all can get caught in the trap of buying accessories before having a great base. I think a lot of it is because the accessories are usually more affordable (at least for me).

[@Stormageddon571]

That belt thing makes a lot of sense. It's the same place that you wear a kilt, and it's so comfortable.

[@Grandwigg]

I'm told it's also healthier (for men, specifically) than lower, in the hips.

[@VosperCDN]

Lots of great advice, thank you. The fully armoured knight running in slow-mo was cool, and would likely be intimidating to witness as a peasant levy.

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

When half a dozen of us have charged the crowd on the other side of a fence to stop at the fence, the crowd has backed up.... what you don't get from that video is how LOUD it is to run in plate mail.

[@ScribeAdept]

In order - Paused the video, joined the Discord, turned in my papers as a 'Man' at Arms, came back to finish video. ;) It is truly amazing to see the community you've helped to coalesce. :: sits back to enjoy ::

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thank you for your support!

[@ahtikai]

Good video once again! One thing I'd like to add here is that don't worry if you make mistakes: at least it can be a good learning experience. I've wasted I don't know how much money on products and materials I've realised later on were bad purchases (including basic cotton in too stark colours for tunics where I could've save by buying linen in muted colours in the first place etc.) but at each mistake I've also learnt how to not do the same mistake again, and what do I want of my outfits. The best advice I can give to newer people in LARP, reenactment etc. is to talk to people and have someone experienced help you - just like Cramer pointed out

[@Deus_Veil]

Thank you, Kramer. I have recently found your channel and love it. I am a dedicated renaissance fest go-er, and medieval-times enthusiast. I believe in being as authentic as possible within ones means. Your knowledge is forever helping me and folks like me who want to improve our appearance. Keep it cool.

[@goudeaulthyme]

Fantastic video! I think we all can get caught in the trap of buying accessories before having a great base. I think a lot of it is because the accessories are usually more affordable (at least for me). It hurts less to buy some nice accessories than it does to buy or make a full base outfit

[@LivingAnachronism]

I very much agree with this, it's absolutely something I always do. For some reason buying a new knife or pouch just seems way more exciting than buying a pair of pants. But after getting my hands on some proper historical pants, I can confirm, it is just as exciting.

[@goudeaulthyme]

@@LivingAnachronism I buy accessories then get my base layers next and realize that the accessories don’t actually geaux with the rest of the outfit. Or sometimes I find that I’m then kind of bottle-necked into getting pants or a shirt that specifically match my accessories rather than the other way around

[@alexmcgilvery3878]

Great advice, and useful to remember as a writer, that a beginning character will have beginning garb, but it will fit and do the job. I think one of my favourite off the cuff costumes was at a summer camp I worked at where they threw a courtly dinner into the mix. I couldn't not wear a costume, but nothing I had would work. I grabbed some burlap bags from the craft hall, made a really rough tunic, put a pillow under an undershirt covered by the burlap to give me a hump, then dusted up head to toe. I spent the evening begging food from the 'lord and ladies' at the table and had a blast. Like you said, character, then costume.

[@dyderich]

This is great advice. I especially liked the armor and wearing of belts advice. Well done.

[@tylerwaalen6963]

You have a very mature and bright mentality about this life. I really appreciate that.

[@gooses78]

Number 10 was so important, especially for new players. But, I'd like to add that I've never met an old timer that is going to judge a new player for the quality of their kit. I love my kit and I'm really proud of it. I think it looks amazing. I've also been playing the same character for 20 years. That means my kit represents 20 years of time and money to put together. My day 1 kit looked nothing like my current kit. I love helping new players refine their kit, but I'm never going to expect someone to show up to their first LARP in $1,000's of dollars worth of costuming.

[@LivingAnachronism]

I only had positive experiences back when I first started. It's important to get over that mental hurdle for new people though. Thank Kristin!

[@VictorianTimeTraveler]

I liked what you said in that other video about winter being the best time to do strength or dexterity training. So you can be in really good shape for the spring.

[@TheLungsman]

Thank you for this I took your advice to settle in for the winter for further traveling and and I need to make my kit better so thank you!

[@andrewbutton2039]

I can wholeheartedly recommend testing things out as much as possible before you have to rely on them. A few times last year I wanted to pack my motorbike for an event and go for a test ride to make sure everything was safe and secure. That never happened, so I had to stop a few times on the way to revise the packing slightly otherwise it may have fallen off. In fact, the first time I packed my shield for an event, it lasted where it was for about 50 miles (out of 164) and then tried to bite (not literally, it's just funnier to say that than acknowledge I messed up and could have hurt myself badly) my bike's chain. Fortunately I carry paracord and I figured out how to tie it on securely, and resumed my journey in less than 5 minutes.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Glad you're alright, that could have been a nasty situation. One of my reoccurring dreams is going to a larp and not being prepared.

[@andrewbutton2039]

@@LivingAnachronism I was expecting it to slip, but not how it did. I am a fairly experienced rider so the entire thing wasn't terribly harrowing, but it's a good story to encourage people to test a loadout in advance. I used more cord for the homeward journey so it couldn't move much on the backbox from mile 0, and entirely revised it for the next event so my backpack was strapped to the bike and the shield was on my back. It works very well that way, it felt kinda like I was Boromir carrying my shield and leaving all the extra kit on a pony, but actually riding the pony as well. I tend to badly overpack, taking far too many various assorted tools and materials for hypothetical demonstrations, making new kit, and any emergency repairs, that almost never happen because I run out of time. I intend to cut what I take down significantly so I can fit my new tent on and still get where I'm going as quickly as usual.

[@IodoDwarvenRanger]

nice sum up :) 10:36 the best advice that is spoken of far too little in costuming/LARP/reenactment community's

[@andeeanko7079]

Wow, I just love your content, your passion, your motivational and kind attitude! I used to attend Renaissance Faires regularly and worked for a summer at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire as a harper. That was a loooong time ago. I haven't done any garb related activities recently, but it's still something that fascinates and inspires me. I might get back into it, who knows.....I'll keep watching your channel in the meantime for inspiration.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thanks Andee! Welcome!

[@wilky1189]

Another super informative video. And I started laughing my ass off when Faramir faded in and out, so thanks for that 🤣

[@SkillTree]

Heeeeeeeeeeyyyy, he said my name!!! Nice ep my man!

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thanks bro!

[@CptJakeSpearow]

Some of the philosophy of your advice is actually really good advice for many aspects of normal day living as well.

[@suzannecooke2055]

When I was an apprentice costumer, my mentor told me - "Good clothes will cost a rock of money or a rock of time; great clothes will cost both"

[@bullockwagon5994]

Just recently found your channel and I love it! You’ve resparked my love for LARP and medieval info! I will say one other tip is to not rush your costume it will evolve in time. I’ve been piecing together my garb for a single character for probably 10 years, and my last renaissance trip I purchased a lovely leather hat. It’s finally complete I think!

[@aubreyjanuary9809]

First thing I noticed about the first version of the character was that you had black, brown, orange and red leathers, which I think is too many different colors (makes me think of the rule about mixing metals yk). But when you put the hood on it covered the more orangey top of the breast late and made it match the brown belt and bracers. So you had black and brown leather with the pop of the red belt and it looked much nicer. The hood also matches the green skirt better than the hat I think. The hat was three toned so with the hood it just brought all the colors together better. Also the Faramir fade as you described the character was hilarious.

[@LivingAnachronism]

I actually hadn't thought of Faramir while I was making this character, and only while writing this script did I realize that I was just describing him haha!

[@joshicus_saint_anger]

The fast, cheap, good (pick 2) model is a really good one to keep in mind when working with/as any kind of creator.

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

That is something we say in our armour shop too... also we charge extra to teach you to make your own, as it takes us longer to show you how to do it than to just complete it ourselves.

[@VictorNiss]

Very good info here and great advice. As somebody who has armor for their Ren Faire kit, I fully back what you say here. 100%. To anybody reading this, follow this advice when planning your garb!

[@bigspam22]

Love what you do man keep it up

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thanks Anthony!

[@Tam_Miri]

This video has so much information! Such fantastic suggestions and guidelines! :D

[@JD57R]

Sword moved from back to hip is a huge improvement. The mantle over the shoulders is another change that gives more weather comfort options.

[@SandraOrtmann1976]

What a wonderful video, very informative. Can fully confirm number 10.

[@eraphtasofstet8645]

Amazing video, and great channel! Your content helped my costume game so much last year and I can’t wait to see what else you got this year!

[@LivingAnachronism]

I've very excited for this year

[@karistasogare]

more into Sci-fy fandom these days , but used to belong to the SCA. that said, the advice you offered here, not only was very good, but also very applicable to both. I remember seeing people it GREAT garb, wear it in the wrong places and suffering for it. (think wearing a Tux to help move a friend) I also recall seeing a Master costumer complimenting a novice, when both had been at an event as the same character. As he said at the time (paraphrasing) "I have been doing this for over a decade, and was able to spend 300 hours on this. What you did after only costuming for a year, was beyond amazing, and I look forward to seeing what you achieve in the Future."

[@Benevolent_Fafnir]

It’s important to also note the time period you are wanting to replicate or inspire your kit… For example, the “muscle cuirass” of the classical period and antiquity did go past one’s waist and to the hips, so sometimes it’s okay to use older forms of armor to inspire more fantasy inspired sets.

[@Matsudai]

Yay! I'm glad to see a discord for you!

[@arx3516]

I wonder who had the "brilliant" idea(sarcastic quotes) to use belts to keep trousers up, when laces worked perfectly for centuries.

[@stephena1196]

It may come from sailors: wide belts were worn by sailors to support their back, because of all the heavy lifting involved hauling sails and anchors. In Europe trousers were first commonly worn by sailors and eventually replaced the usual breeches and hose of land lubbers. Like denim jeans only really started being ubiquitous because of their availability due to US Navy surplus after WW2. Same with T-shirts, watch film of US Navy seamen at work in the Pacific during WW2 and they are wearing jeans and T-shirt.

[@jeffhoyt5661]

I’ve been a Ren Faire performer for 25+ years, and I think that you did a very good job with this video - well done!

[@TheirishkingadventuresBlogspot]

I always love watching your videos before the ren faire comes up to refresh my mind and get some good ideas to bring my cosplay to the next level.

[@joshicus_saint_anger]

Great video! Loving the new set

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thanks!

[@Riceball01]

Another thing to look for in armor, particularly plate armor but can also apply to some leather armors, is that it needs to not hug your torso. Historical plate armor pretty much alweaeyts had a globular design with a slightly pot bellied look to it. The reason for this was a combination of fashion and functionality. Armor, in addition to offering protection ,was also fashion and the wearer often wanted armor that not only protected them, but looked good while doing so. The globular design of breastplates helps to deflect arrows, while they may have only been made from a few millimeters of steel, the rounded shape made it so that arrows would be more likely to glance off instead of penetrating like it would if it were flatter. The roundes also means that it creates pace between the armor and your body so that if an arrow does manage to penetrate, it might not actually hit your body. The space in between also means that a hit from a melee weapon is going to be felt as much. I should point out that this only applies to brreastplates. Back plates were generally more form fitting and arm and leg armor were too.

[@matthiuskoenig3378]

You are making something from a specific era (pot bellied armour) into a general rule. While all medieval breast plates are rounded, I would not describe all of them as pot bellied.

[@stevenschnepp576]

​@@matthiuskoenig3378 Too late, I'm gonna use it as an excuse for boobplate.

[@cosmosveil9355]

I'm so glad you mentioned cuirass length! I have a short torso and I have to get them custom made to fit me properly.

[@Fixup1000]

Thanks!

[@greysquatchthebard5080]

Love the new backdrop. Rwally takes your videos to the next level.

[@VictorianTimeTraveler]

It would be really cool to have a full suit of late medieval Gothic armor. That's currently just a bit outside my price range though, especially since I'd have it tailored to my body.

[@kuna129]

:) That would probably cost like Cadillac! Jason Kingsley from Modern History TV has custom armor, but he is reasonably wealthy guy.

[@Muljinn]

Dude’s literally got a knighthood. You don’t get one of those without having some accomplishments under your belt.

[@universe8607]

@@kuna129 having a full set of fancy plate armor probably was an alternative to the modern rich people flexing with their supercars

[@VictorianTimeTraveler]

@@universe8607 some rich people own tanks. But they're usually deranged and old Cold War and World War II designs. It's not really that much of a comparison

[@kuna129]

@@universe8607 :) Plus the good battle-ready stallion - definitely!

[@cheersbro7347]

Been a while since I watched ur videos. I love the new background. I am on a “dopamine detox” because I feel addicted to yt. The only entertainment channel that I allow myself to use is yours. One thing I would add is that not all breastplates are bad that go below your belt. Ancient greek musculata armor is really bad ass and it was used historically. No its not comfortable to wear outside of battle but its not out of the realm of possibilities.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thanks that's high praise! True, there are of course caveats, there is plenty of good armor that does go beneath the bellybutton. That was more a general rule for new people to get them thinking about armor in a functional way, since many will not do tons of historical research before buying something that looks cool at a good price.

[@calladricosplays]

I thought I was weird because I often knew the Etsy artists that were being imitated on those sites, especially since folks don't always appreciate when you link the source. It's a great comfort to know that you are also a patron of the arts!

[@notoriouswhitemoth]

The big change I noticed to the ranger captain outfit was replacing the hat (generally worn by out-of-touch elites who wouldn't dream of getting their hands dirty) with a gorget (to protect your neck and shoulders from shallow cuts, showing both the confidence to take risks and competence to preemptively minimize the harm from those risks)

[@festusthecat]

Good advice. Thank you

[@TheSwedishRanger]

Awesome video, great things to remember! Quick question, is that the Maron vest by Burgschneider? I have the same, only brown, for my Dúnedain outfit I've mentioned a few times.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Good eye! Yes it is!

[@raeshin13]

It's amazing what some very small changes can do to make a kit feel and look more complete. Definitely the shifting of the sword from the back to the hip. It gives it a completely different feel to me.

[@benjaminblack4345]

Great video! I enjoyed it quite well! And good encouragements at the end. I think the main difference is switching the somewhat bold and declarative hat (paired with the imposing leather cuirass) to the humbler ranger style hood, which also quiets the breastplate to a less obtrusive position by partially covering it. The sword being put in the slightly less obtrusive position at your side instead of over the shoulder also helped with that shift, and seeing your hair probably did as well (since Aragorn is the centerpiece of the Ranger in our minds, haha). (I love the Patreon options! I don't have the extra $ at the moment to upgrade my status on there, but I will when I start making some more, hopefully in the fairly near future.)

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thanks, as always, for your support Ben. Great analysis on the costume. I definitely felt very aggressive and unapproachable when I had that first out fit on. Not what I had envisioned.

[@benjaminblack4345]

@@LivingAnachronism not at all, thank you for the great content you create! Ah yes, it really is interesting how seemingly subtle shifts make a huge difference.

[@LightningNC]

11:36 -- That looks almost exactly like one of the Bridge Alliance soldiers from GreedFall.

[@dronesclubhighjinks]

Thank you for sharing your expertise! You said not to wear black. What would you recommend? How about Under Armour? 😂 sorry, I couldn't resist! You are completely correct about the fit of the torso and the waist. You mentioned muscle memory, and I cannot overstate the importance of this. I am sure there are a multiplicity of tools which a medieval man could have attached to his belt, but if anyone wants to use this efficiently and effectively, one must do more than familiarize oneself - one must become so comfortable that one can do it without looking down. This means doing it by feel. This will build muscle memory. What closures are used for the tools on the belt? Is there a medieval equivalent to metal snap closures or Velcro? You mentioned having to learn to open something while wearing gloves. Knowing one has the tool one needs to save one's life or a friend's life but one can't open the pouch of the tool one needs is a horrible feeling one would not want to experience even if it's not a real life and death situation. You may have covered this in a previous video, but one has to be very careful with what clothing one wears that can obstruct access to the toolbelt. One might need to have tools located at the back of the belt if one runs out of space. Make sure this is accessible. The last thing one wants in a dangerous situation is fumbling about with a cloak or tunic getting in the way. Sorry if this is a dumb question, but are there any women who participate in LARPing, wearing what you have described here? Thank you for the video! As usual, I learned a lot! I'm glad your channel is expanding!

[@Ravenick]

Awesome video as always. These sorts of "DIY" / advice on what to get tips and help are really useful for people just starting out.

[@oldguygames6861]

Well done! I've been larping for 21 yars now and I am always trying to make little improvements each year. I keep telling new players I meet that we are all just a bunch of nerds running arojund the woods hitting each other with plumbing supplies, so having a kit that would look normal in a movie is something to aspire too. You'll get there, just take the time to enjoy the hobby as you go

[@robertmiller6817]

Thank you so much for this video, this is fantastic advice. I just started doing this last year and want to improve.

[@hayleyhistorynerd2211]

Hello there! Thank-you so much for mentioning wearing belts on the waist for men. I've been involved in the SCA, Renaissance Fairs, since I was a teenager, and even some of the most passionate, and well researched garb makers/wears make this mistake. You hit the nail on the head, it's the belt-loops/belt placement given by modern jeans, that throws off the belt sitting place for men. I'm so happy you brought this up. It's both practical for having a belt with a pouch or a dagger, but it really pulls one's look away from looking modern. Great advice in this video all the way through! Hayley ^_^

[@jackccurbs]

If I may humbly submit an eleventh tip for those who create their own costumes: for the love of all things, try out patterns with paper or muslin before you use the fabric or material you've bought. I have had far too many sad days due to such negligence.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Seconded

[@OutlandStation]

I just bought two sets of jersey fabric bed-sheets yesterday in order to test ruana cloak designs. Fairly cheap as test patterns, but also functional in and of themselves as lightweight cloaks.

[@Shahjahani777]

Thirded. Used to sew for Renaissance faires. Do a mock up first. It'll save money and tears.

[@medievaldruidess]

I am so glad you are here to guide us 😊🦋

[@cheese6575]

Ayy I missed your videos! I have the bell on but I haven't gotten notifications for all your other recent uploads. Oh well, guess it's time for a binge watch

[@LivingAnachronism]

Hope you enjoy! And if you join my discord, you'll get notifications there, since KZbin is sus sometimes

[@trejartheprimagen5530]

im in the early stages of planning out and making a kit, watching some of the videos you have made with these mistakes as well as a few of the cloak videos has shown me im on a good track with my plans. though rather than buying pre-made components for the kit, I will be making a majority of it from scratch. ive got good designs that fit the character, though what ive not figured out quite yet is the under garments. im still working on things for it, but ive got just under a year to get most of it made.

[@christopherfisher128]

I love that in the picture of the greaves ( 16:08 ) it says it's real leather, but the first bullet point in the description is; "Machine Wash"

[@LivingAnachronism]

Yeah lol "machine washable armor"

[@christopherfisher128]

@@LivingAnachronism Well to be fair, we're not 100% on how cuir-bouilli was made. Maybe they just let it shrink in the wash ;)

[@korgan7779]

Very well done video with good reasonable advice! I would think another good recommendation, which you may have made in another video that I've yet to see being new to the channel would be to learn to craft your own, just like Nerds, Geeks, and Dorks of old. Obviously some things will be beyond most peoples means such as Blacksmithing but there is leather goods and other things one can learn and make on their journey. Making it can also allow you to customize things quicker than going in for a fitting. If you have access to a sewing machine or are good with your hands to do so by hand it can help develop patience and better understanding of your gear. As a guy who is big on DIY and personally enjoy obtaining knowledge I always try to promote the same. This is a quote that while popular to say these days is "Work smarter, Not harder". The thing that made me remember the quote was probably before your time but it was Scrooge McDuck on the cartoon DuckTales in the late 80s.

[@mr.s2005]

The Numenorean Navy uniforms never made sense to me. Everyone wearing armor isn't practical on a ship. Could see the officers still wearing their armor to help them be quickly identified, but the sailors are constantly having to climb up to the sails, doing a lot of manual labor, risk falling overboard, and unless they were expecting an immediate attack, they wouldn't even be wearing armor.....and it all looks cheap for a billion dollar series

[@kristinejohanek]

All excellent advice that we can tell has been learned from experience! Thanks

[@williampanagopoulos656]

A discord you say? Sign me the heck up Im mostly a reenactor primarily But ive said before your guide to upgrading and taking steps is something ive even seen reenactors barely follow.

[@LivingAnachronism]

I'd really like to see reenactment and larp blend more! I think that would hugely improve a lot of larp events!

[@joshicus_saint_anger]

As for the costume differences: the hat has a sort of city-dweller vibe to it that would work well for a merchant or noble, while that hood is much more practical for a ranger type, but the material is also very high quality so I think it insinuates that the ranger has access to expensive gear. So ultimately it's an improvement because it retains it's impressiveness (status-wise) while being a much more functional piece, which is what we'd expect from a ranger

[@RyuuKageDesu]

These were concerns I had, back when I was making my cosplay, and going to events. The comfort aspect was particularly important.

[@bulw4rk856]

My local LARP is a Belegarth game, so it's more on the boffer combat side of things, but we are encouraged heavily to act out a character and dress up. These videos of yours are helpful for building a nice kit and are truly appreciated.

[@cinderpsycho1985]

I feel called out hard on black base layer but I already knew I needed a new dress. Love this vid another one I can always rewatch

[@tommywolfe2706]

If you keep making these sorts of videos, even people who dont larp will be tuning in....you got some awesome quality content and this video alone changed my opinion of people who are into that sort of thing. Please dont throw a lot of hate my way lol, if you are in an area where this is not a thing or seen as "weird" then misconceptions are easy to come by. I am super impressed with his suggestion of focusing your energy and resources into individual items that are as authentic, and fit good, and are as functional as possible, for your best possible experience and worrying about them piece meal, instead of going all out at once and using up all your funds on a "complete package". No doubt that would change the game entirely. Even if you arent into cosplay or larping, the dedication and insistence on trying to perfect the look is a grind that I can 100% get behind.

[@nahkohese555]

I've been a reenactor for over 50 years now and I agree with everything you said. I do Renaissance as well as Early American and Cowboy time periods. I think the most important thing you said was create your character/personea first before you begin buying your garb and equipment. One additional thing I'd like to add is chain maille and leather armor. Not everyone could afford plate. You either had to be from a wealthy family or have a wealthy patron to have plate (or be in the service of the king). Chain and leather were actually more common, especially for unmounted warriors. Just an alternative to think about.

[@wingednomad8423]

Interesting! Im not a LARPer but im a leathercrafter looking to build my first set of armor. Thank you for the tips!

[@UriskOfTheFae]

Covering armour fitting was particularly great! I'm getting ready to join a LARP soon, and with having almost no budget and wanting to get a sense of their story before developing my character in it, I've already decided to be very under dressed and under equipped my first event. The goal is to make it clear at first glance that my character just stumbled unexpectedly out of his own secluded little forest-trapped village into a completely unfamiliar world.

[@aliciatopolnycky373]

This is a really awesome, practical video!! Thank you for offering such rich information and succinctly/clearly too. Love it (and just subscribed).

[@raysims4940]

Great video. You posted a lot of helpful information.

[@marissabulso6439]

Amazing video! Thank you so much for all the effort you put into your craft. It really shows. My friend and I are currently putting together an outfit for a fictional book character (versus larp, though we would like a real outfit for photos/cosplay and fine tuning the description). We are looking for that perfect balance between fantasy and history, aesthetic and pragmatism. Your video has given me really good food for thought. And I LOVE the suggestion to wear an ensemble a few times and build it up over time. We’ve both been wrapped up in getting it perfect before we craft it and nail down the written description. But it makes so much sense that we would gain a ton of information simply based on how the outfit feels and operates as she wears it. Even if all the details don’t make it into the story, it will make my heart sing to know those details inside and out. And I am just one of those writers who likes to describe things that would actually work and actually suit the character. 😂❤

[@LivingAnachronism]

That's awesome! Have fun making those! What book? If you don't mind my asking?

[@marissabulso6439]

It’s a story the two of us are writing together! A classic adventure quest, but with a great deal of focus on the growth of the characters as they learn necessary skills and more about themselves. We hope to reflect that growth in their garb. Have them pick up certain things along the way, and discard original pieces that no longer function. That sort of thing. ☺️ I studied a fair bit about the Middle Ages in college, so I love pulling from history. Especially since it’s a natural combination of form and function. Because humans are humans. 😂

[@cmpiepho]

Discord channel you say? Don't mind if I just *instantly* click that lil link lol. xD I'm so excited for you Kramer, I haven't been a member for super long but it's so nice to see your channel growing and you being able to branch out into new things. Can't wait to see what's next for you!

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thanks Carissa! I'll see you there!

[@Helliconia54]

very informative video, sure to be great help to those starting out.

[@hellaradusername]

Just found your channel, this is super cool. Your leather breastplate looks great and this is a really minor point, but medieval armor tended to have the straps facing the other way so the flappy bit gets in the way less. This was ages and ages ago but I made a leather covered coat of plates that buckled on both sides and it worked out pretty well.

[@LivingAnachronism]

I appreciate the note, thank you. On my part it was a conscious decision to break in the norm, because it would be easier to get in and out of it by myself. I ran a trial with the buckles reversed and had a lot of trouble putting it on without help

[@Ithirahad]

"Potions are not something I use [...] in my everyday life" ...lmao, one would hope not :D

[@Rokuns]

lol that typo at 04:19, sorry just one of my weird tendencies but an overall a really good video that will help newer fans avoid the costly mistakes many have made.

[@LivingAnachronism]

damn didn't catch it

[@Rokuns]

@@LivingAnachronism No worries, it's just one of those stupid ticks we all have, for me, one of them being able to pinpoint misspellings instantly no matter how hard I try not to!

[@brandonking849]

Loved this video, wish I had it when I started, amazing advice

[@pink_parade2900]

Ima be honest at 12:05 the og outfit totally gave me the vibes you were looking for. It seemed plucky, scrappy and optimistic but like they were still very new to everything.

[@authorkellylclark]

Character design is character personality from a art perspective. Thanks for bringing it up!

[@LivingAnachronism]

Very wisely put

[@EricaSalzman]

When you showed the second version of your LARP costume, I liked that one better. Since you were going for a ranger-type look, I think having the green hood instead of the green-striped hat made it look more like a ranger's garb. (Plus, no offense meant, the hat just looked really silly to me.)

[@LivingAnachronism]

No offense taken ;)

[@EricaSalzman]

@@LivingAnachronism Oh, that's good. Besides, I don't know if other people do, but when I think "ranger head-gear" I think of a hood.

[@JakinShaw]

Fantastic video! I’m looking forward to starting my new adventure!