Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Renaissance Clothing History

When it comes to the history of Renaissance clothing, there is much to consider in terms of the expensive taste that certain individuals had at that time. Lots of rich fabrics were worn and the designs were cut to show fullness. Here is a look at two main articles of clothing that were worn during that time and how they are still worn today.

One part of this type of clothing for men is the codpiece. This was the precursor to the fly that is worn by men today. Back then, men wore it to cover the crotch area of their trousers. There were different designs that help to create a focal point in that region. It used to be held in place with strings or other fastenings that were used at the time.

The codpiece is worn today as a jock strap in sports and also in the costumes of many performers, particularly heavy metal and rock. Leather is the fabric of choice when creating this piece for entertainment purposes, and it usually resembles a jock strap except that it has metal studs on them which can draw attention to the wearer.

The corset has always been a source of controversy for many years and still has a major impact on fashion today. It was mainly used to create slim figure and to flatten the bust which created a flat torso overall. This helped to accentuate the waist and make it appear smaller in contrast to the full skirts that were worn.

This is one reason the corsets are worn today but there are other reasons as well. There are some women who are using the corset to help them eat less and keep their weight down. There are also many who are using in the entertainment industry and as a fashion statement. One can also find the corset worn at a number of costume parties.

In general the Renaissance clothing history was about extremes. The wealthy took advantage of this to show their position in society. So anything that was excessive was the norm. In some ways there is still a tendency for some people to do this today, as can be seen in the world of fashion.

About the author: David Lawson writes his thoughts and recommendations on children's medieval costumes and other topics at Shop Compare Costumes. Take in his Halloween costume price comparison web site for more on sexy Renaissance costumes.

Renaissance Wedding Dresses

Weddings are a very special day dreamed of by many women from the time they were young girls. As a young child most will dream of very elaborate ceremonies complete with story book style gowns. These wearable works of art are known as Renaissance wedding dresses.

No other style of gown can match the sheer beauty and elegance of a renaissance style gown. Thanks to designers there are different styles you can choose from, but they still have the critical elements that make them the classic gown.

Some versions are available as a sleeveless design, but most have long straight sleeves that adhere tightly to the arms and then start to flare at the wrist. These dresses are made slender so that they fit nice and snug along the waistline. Finely beaded details decorate the bodice and beautiful handmade silk flowers add floral accents. Usually you will find these gowns in either ivory white or cream but other colors can be used.

A low front is produced in a stately and tasteful manner. Gowns which have both low and close the backs can be found so it is up to your special preference. Close combat gowns can have a short upturned collar which had an elegant look to them. They can also be made with a crisscross lacing design which will tie at the bottom of the bodice.

The over drape usually attaches at the side seams of the gown to make a lavish train which follows the bride throughout the bridal procession. The material for the over drape can vary but it is usually composed of a beautiful silk organza or a silver metallic mesh. It is further decorated with a very intricate working of beads and a layer of shimmer sparkle.

This is the type of gown you wear when you want to do a remake of one of most famous Royal weddings, or if you want to remember your wedding as a Romeo and Juliet theme. By choosing any of the stunning styles you can find while looking at Renaissance wedding dresses, you will definitely feel like you have stepped out of a story book and into real life.

About the author: David L writes his thoughts and recommendations about Renaissance Halloween costumes and other ideas at Shop Compare Costumes. Check out his Halloween costume price comparison site for more on Renaissance costumes.

Have Fun With Games For Luau Party

When the weather begins to get warm, cookouts and parties are something that most people begin to think about. Luau parties are quite popular among individuals looking for some Summer time fun. A cookout featuring Hawaiian inspired dishes and a few tiki torches is enough incentive to bring many groups of people together. Party hosts can make these gatherings even more fun by planing a few Hawaiian luau party games as well.

Pass the Coconut is an easy game to play, putting a new spin on the classic Hot Potato party game. While it may be more suited to the children at the gathering, adults can still have a little nostalgic fun at the same time.

Begin the game by seating guests in a circle and turning on some theme related music. Every time the music pauses, the player holding the coconut must exit the game. This continues until all but one player remains in the circle. The player that is left in the circle is declared the winner and a prize is given if this is what the host has chosen to do as an incentive.

Two other fun Hawaiian luau part games to consider are Crab Football and Hawaiian Body Art. These two games can be played by children and adults and are easily changed to accommodate different age groups.

Crab Football is a fun spin on soccer and uses a beach ball as the game piece. Players must also crab walk around the playing area in an attempt to get the ball into the goal. The host will need to set up a goal at opposite ends of the playing area and of course the goal tender must also get into the crab position to play as well. Adults and children both usually find this game to be quite hilarious as do those who are on the sidelines watching all the action.

Hawaiian Body Art is a game of competition and one that many guests will most likely enjoy. Divide the guests into small groups and give each group some paint brushes and body paint. Each group will then work together to paint the body of one of their teammates in as much Hawaiian inspired art as possible within the time limit. The group producing the best artwork is then declared the winner of the game.

Visit David Lawson's Hawaiian luau decorations site for the greatest values online. Hunting for other ideas. Take in the vast variety and best price for Hawaiian luau costumes.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Renaissance Jewelry And Their Meaning

The value of Renaissance jewelry is something that one can appreciate when they observe the intricate design, and the work that was involved in the creation of various pieces. This was a time of experimentation but it had a purpose. The inspiration for many of these designs added to their meaning and importance.

Heart-shaped pendants were one of many designs that were very popular in this period. There were precious stones and gems that were also cut in the same manner. These were used signify a person's love for another. Rings were also used for this purpose and had various designs and themes that gave the same message.

The Memento Mori was used in times of mourning the death of a loved one. It was used to remind people of their mortality and that they too would soon leave their loved ones. Skulls and coffins were used in the design of these forms of jewelry. As a way to remember the person, a piece of their hair was kept.

Nature was a popular form of inspiration for many jewelers and there were many broaches that had this theme. One of them was known as the garland. This type of broach looked like a garland of flowers with leaves and other decorations. There were many types of ornaments that had themes of a similar nature.

Other types of renaissance jewelry worn during this period were hair nets that were decorated with pearls which were worn quite frequently. Though pearls are normally round in shape they were not always that way. Pearls were also worn around the neck and as earrings.

Renaissance fine jewelry could be very detailed and complex in its design or very simple. They were used in excess by certain groups of people who were among the wealthy in society. Yet, for many, the ornaments that was worn had deep meaning and were sometimes passed down from one generation to the next.

About the author: David Lawson writes his thoughts and recommendations on Medieval peasant costume and other topics at Shop Compare Costumes. Discover his Halloween costume price comparison site for more on Renaissance Halloween costumes.