Tip:
Highlight text to annotate it
X
First of all, let's talk about why costuming is important.
Because without it you'd be naked. Nakedness is natural. Why not?
How terribly inappropriate! I meant why costuming is important besides
the fact that it keeps you clothed. It helps with character development.
You mean how a costume helps with role play? Yes. My outfit says a lot a out me to other
people. Yeah. Imagine is Lita's costume was all frilly
and full of lace. (Laughing) On second thought, you should keep
that on, Lita. It looks great on you. Your costume should fit your character. It
is like actors on a stage. Often you find the right costume makes it easier to fall
into the role. The more you differ from who you are in real life, the easier it becomes
to play a new person. Let us not forget that good costuming also
improves the immersion of a game. By wearing a costume that fits the environment,you are
making the game better for everyone. Does this not create a better experience than...this?
Malone, didn't we already argue about high and low immersion?
You don't have to spend a lot of money to have a decent costume. Putting effort into
your hobby can save us all a little embarrassment when society sees photos of LARPers dressed
like this. No wonder out hobby gets such a bad reputation
in the main stream media. They look like idiots. Your face looks like an idiot.
Very mature, Paradox. All I meant to say is that a little effort goes a long way to change
th estereotypes that plague our kind. It's not a terrible point, especially when
you consider the fact that your costume can improve your character development and immersion,
and not be perfect. A perfect costume is boring. No one is perfect.
No character should be perfect. No costume should be, either.
Great your costume as a work in progress. When you start your character, you may be
limited in what you can find or afford. Start with the basics and build toward an end goal
over time on your budget and comfort level. Find inspiration for your end vision by keeping
an inspirational collection. Start a Pinterest board or tumblr page and post photos of LARP
characters, movie character or other artwork that you think is cool or that fits your character
and share it! It's a good idea to evolve your costume over
time for a few reasons. If you start simple, you won't be far in the hole if you decide
you don't actually like playing that particular character. Also, you allow room in your costume
design for future character development to have an influence.
My own costume has changed a lot since I first started adventuring. I've even had to change
my race due to my storyline and my costume will continue to evolve as I gain experience!
Also consider these other examples of LARPers who have improved their costuming over time.
You may just need patience and some creativity. Finding a costume can be done in a few ways.
Firstly, you can make it yourself. If you know how to use a sewing machine, you can
save money and make your own basic costuming. If you have never lined now is a good time
to try! Costuming for a LARP is a good excuse to try new things and experiment.
Of you don't have thrive or the creativity to make it hourly, you can buy your costume.
Find shirts and pants at thrift shops and flea markets for cheap. You never know what
sort of things you will find, so go often. You can also find rat costuming online at
popular specialty sites, although you run the risk of running into players with the
same costumes. Find mor unique items by finding costume artists
throu Etsy, DeviantArt, or at Renaissance fairs. Although you want to be careful not
to be cheated. Renaissance fairs often charge more than necessary because people are willing
to pay. Just be aware and ask questions. Alternatively--and probably the best idea--is
to find people at your local LARP who a talented in such crafts. In this way you are supporting
your fellow LARPers and you are getting a good product with great service.
Of all th thing should should consider buying, I recommend a good pair of shoes. Spend th
most of your budget on good shoes, because if you are doing LARP correctly you will be
on your feet a lot. Also don't forget a costume includes things
like makeup and wigs. Investing in quality makeup is better for
your skin and makes argue aesthetic difference. A good wig can also cost a lot, but I've paid
maybe $30 or $40 for a wig on eBay and been very happy.
Also consider latex prosthetics. Elf ears and animals masks that are spirit glued to
your grace should be quality items if at all possible.
I've always felt putting more of your time and money into makeup was an easy way to improve
a simple costume. If you have any questions about where to find
a particular costuming item, drop me a comment. The LARP world is filled with creative and
talented people who should be able to find an answer for you!m also be us to share photos
of your costume with us. We would love to see what you have come up with.
Next time join me, the fun one, as I discuss how to prepare for your first overnight LARP.
It will be packed full of tips and tricks! As always, please like and subscribe to Larping.org
and Kristin's own channel. Also check out Larping.org's other great videos, including
LarpForge's "How to Play the Doctor" video. Thanks for watching and we will see you next
time on Stay in Character! Mi mi mi mi mi!
I think I keep looking over this way instead of at the camera.
Hello! I'm talking to you!
Yeah. Uuughhhhhh....my legs!