On a tight budget?
Costumes don't have to be complicated. With a little bit of creativity, mundane objects can become great Heroic costumes. If you don't have a lot of money to spend, think about altering existing garments to create your costume.
Thrift stores are a great resource for putting together a costume on a budget. Need some armor? Grab some used sporting equipment and some spray paint. Or tear the sleeves off of a leather jacket and add some trim to dress it up as armor.
Don't forget your feet
It may sound silly, but remember when you are putting together your costume you are going to be wearing a particular pair of shoes all weekend. If your character is going to run, jump, fight, and move, you need to be sure that you have supportive and comfortable shoes and socks.
Period-looking shoes are great, but make sure that they are also functional. If you just have to have a cool pair of moccasin boots, think about a good pair of inserts to go in them.
Costumes, Weapons, and Props
The way that you dress, the weapons that you choose to fight with, and the props that you carry come together with your actions and mannerisms to create your unique character. We've put together three different looks here as examples to show a few different ways to build a complete character feel. Click on one of the pictures below for an in-depth look at the process.
It's gotta wear
Unlike purely theatrical costuming, Interactive Theatre costuming has to wear well. You might play your character for years and there can be a lot of wear and tear in that time. When you are putting your costume together, be sure to assess your level of activity and choose fabric and styles accordingly. If you are going to be charging through the woods, a filmy scarf might not be the best choice. On the other hand, if you intend to be dancing in the tavern, it might be ideal.
Also remember that Heroic Interactive Theatre is played primarily outdoors. You will need to think about ways to incorporate layers for warmth in the winter or ways to keep cool in the summer.
Not into crafting?
So you hate sewing and the idea of making your own suit of chainmail is only slightly more appealing than eating broken glass? Fear not. Lots of people make and sell fantastic costume pieces and boffers.
Buying costuming and weapons can be an expensive (and addictive) process, but a well-maintained costume piece can last for years and adds a lot of atmosphere to your local game.
Here are a few places to get started:
Garb Links
Boffer Links
Armor Links
