LARP (live action role playing) costumes can get pricey. I recommend using one finely crafted (read: expensive) costuming item complemented by clothes you can find in your own closet or in second-hand stores.
Character Considerations
If you’re short on money, new to LARPing or aren’t sure whether you want to commit to a particular LARP, think about costuming when you determine your character. If you play a gypsy or a contemporary character, clothing will be less expensive.
Footwear
Footwear is essential and entirely necessary for your comfort. Women generally have an easier time with LARP-friendly footwear. If you’re in a medieval fantasy setting, you can find comfortable boots at stores (or online) like Payless for $50 or less.
Peasant Skirts
Peasant skirts are a staple of the LARP wardrobe for most women. They have elastic waistlines which means they won’t get too big or small if you gain or lose weight. If your sleeping area is in-game, they’re pretty comfortable—you won’t have to worry about getting up and roaming around in out-of-character pajamas.
You can find plenty of new and gently used peasant skirts on eBay, but second hand stores usually charge $2 to $10 for these items.
Leggings
Leggings are essential, especially if you go with a dress or peasant skirt option. Leggings protect your legs from thorns, chilly weather and ticks. They’re easy to clean and are relatively inexpensive. New at chain stores, they cost $7-$12 apiece; you can find them for $2-$5 at second hand stores.
Peasant or Poet Shirt
Light and flowing, peasant and poet shirts give that flowing romantic effect popular in medieval fantasy through modern genres. These are versatile wardrobe pieces, especially if you intend to frequent multiple LARPs. They’re a bit rarer than other types of clothing, but if you’re willing to check out a few second hand stores, you should be able to find them.
Peasant and poet shirts usually cost $3-$8 at second hand stores.
Camisole
To retain comfort and modesty, consider wearing a camisole or thermal beneath your flowing shirt. These are in the $2-$4 range at second hand stores.
Vests
It’s challenging to find fitted or figure-flattering clothing appropriate for LARPs at second hand stores. However, women’s vests provide a fitted look. They’re readily available at second-hand stores. You can also easily adapt a man’s vest by sewing together two points on the back of the vest near the small of your back.
Vests cost $2-$25 at second hand stores; the more expensive ones are made of materials such as leather and cashmere.
Belt
Another way to eliminate the baggy appearance of second hand store costuming involves adding a belt. Aside from holding pouches and other useful items on your person, belts help shape your figure by minimizing the baggy fabric.
Keeping the fabric close to your body also prevents tears in clothing and promotes safety during combat. Belts usually cost $3-$7 at second hand stores; don’t be afraid to check out the men’s section for belts as well.
When you’ve decided to invest more money into your costume or find that you no longer need your starter LARP costuming, consider donating it to a new LARPer or to your favorite LARP for NPC costume use.
You can also donate your used clothing to second hand stores. This earns you a tax break and you will help your local community.
Recommended second hand store chains:
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