Renaissance clothing has become a fashion statement in this modern world. Dresses for men and women are being inspired by the Renaissance dresses from Europe. Mediaeval costumes provide an elegant and graceful look to the wearer. Portraits of aristocratic men and ladies from Europe have provided the inspiration for the design of these costumes meant for modern men and women.
Renaissance dresses for women include long gowns covering the feet, but without the flow of gathers. These modern Renaissance-style gowns are figure-hugging. Cotton, linen and laces are used to enhance the visual appeal. Cuts and shapes follow the trends popular in the mediaeval costumes as we see in the paintings of those eras.
An important dress for women is inspired by the mediaeval chemise. Chemise was a long and lose cotton or linen tunic worn in mediaeval times by the ladies under all their dresses. Its chief function was to provide an elegant fall to the outer garment and to absorb perspiration. Modern dress inspired by the chemise can be worn as the main dress in a stylish mediaeval fashion. It comes in white, black, patterned fabric or even in bright colours such as burgundy red. Sleeves are long and may be detached in some costumes.
Cloaks, robes and capes are other pieces of dresses inspired by the mediaeval costumes. They provide a regal look to the wearer and may be made from cotton, silk, satin, velvet and synthetic fabric.
Pirate clothing is very popular for men interested in these costumes. Men’s clothing has a full ensemble in the form of pirate shirts, capes, cloaks, coats, tunics and vests. Dresses for men in the form of coats and tunics may be in bold colours such as maroon, blue or black and may be embroidered with brocade. Caps may have gems, brocade and feathers adorning them. Swords and daggers complete the clothing accessories for men’s costumes.