Re: [h-cost] clothing for the reluctant husband

[michael tartaglio]

Hi. Since I am one of those folks firing off cannon at SCA events, 
perhaps I can help. First, before even discussing styles, let me say 
that I would not only recommend, but practically insist, that everything 
worn be of a natural material. I don't wear potential napalm on my body 
and don't suggest it for anyone else. Wool, even in the summer, has 
protected me from burns and ignition on many occasions. This said, the 
later the historical period, the closer to modern clothing, and the more 
likely your hubby will be willing to wear it. I would recommend late 
Elizabethan, with a shirt, breeches a doublet (sleeveless, if need be 
for comfort), and a coat or cassock. The broad-brimmed hat (pretty 
ubiquitous around the SCA) could round out the look. Breeches don't have 
to be pumpkin pants, venetians or nautical wide legged breeches can 
work. If your hubby has thick calves, rather than trying to find cotton 
knit hose (improper for the period anyway), just make cuthose of linen 
following directions for 15th C hose but only making the part from a 
little above the knee down. Use a garter at the knee and you are set. 
Sleeveless doublet can be of leather, slashed or pinked, and that will 
protect from burns too. Some of the 16th C men's stuff looks pretty 
butch, avoiding the  *ugh, that looks girly* effect. Good Luck, Mike T.  
PS you can try clothing up to about 1650,  99% of the folks in the SCA 
don't know the difference anyway...

 

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