How to Create Your Very First LARP Costume

So you’ve decided to start LARPing! You’ve got your character concept all figured out. You have their Race (Culture), Class (Guild), even their accent down to a science. There’s one thing missing though: What on Earth are you going to wear? You don’t yet have a closet brimming with fantasy clothing and buying high end pieces can cost quite a bit. What’s a nerd to do? 

Not to worry, for this is a problem that can be solved quickly and for relatively little cost. You don’t need to spend hundreds on custom pieces, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look great! So, here are some tips for creating a great first costume without breaking the bank. 

1. What Do You Already Own?

The first thing you need to do is take a look in your closet and take stock of what is already at your disposal. Look for:

• Plain shirts without logos or graphics
• A plain pair of comfortable pants
• A plain pair of shoes. Ideally something sensible for running through the woods.
• Any accessories that would fit your character’s aesthetic. Scarves, necklaces, jackets, hats, etc.

2. Thrifting is a Nerd’s Best Friend

You will probably have to purchase at least one piece of costuming if not more, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get it for cheap. Rather than shopping at LARP clothing stores online, which can be very pricey, go to your local thrift or second hand store and browse the racks. 

• Many thrift stores have a wide selection of styles and maybe even some actual costume pieces. You’d be surprised by what you find
• You can usually find some pieces that look fantasy appropriate
• Even if something isn’t, you can always alter the clothes with minimal sewing skills.

3. A Little Hot Glue Goes A Long Way

If you can’t find something that fits your needs, you can make it fit them. With just a little crafting skill, you can turn t-shirts into tunics, or an old blouse into a fantasy bodice. The possibilities are endless.

• Have boots but they’re not the right color? A little leather shoe dye will fix that right up!
• Have an old t-shirt? Cut the collar and the hemmed edges off, and cut a v shape into the new neckline. Now you’ve got a basic tunic!
• Have a dress but it’s a little large for you? Some creative use of hair elastics and a good ol’ fashioned belt will bring the look together.
• Want something to look old and medieval? Stain it. Rub some dirt on it or drench it in tea or coffee. Let it sit for a day and give it a wash. It’ll come out looking sufficiently dirty!

4. Don’t Expect Perfection

It’s very easy to apply all these tips and still be dissatisfied with your progress because it doesn’t match your vision. And sadly, it won’t ever be one hundred percent what you pictured. But that’s okay, because this is just a starting point.

• Over time you’ll develop your skills and be able to make more complex and interesting pieces.
• You can save up for those big expensive purchases and slowly build a “final look” over time.
• Do not compare yourself to the other people at the game. Many of them have spent years saving, and learning, and crafting, in order to get their iconic looks.
• Many people will also be happy to help you. Ask them where they bought something, or how they made it. They might help you find or make something for your own character.

Final Word: A Little Effort is All it Takes 

The most important thing to remember is: You’re LARPing to have fun. And so long as you put just a little effort into a basic first costume, you’re going to find the experience much more enjoyable than if you showed up in jeans, a graphic tee, and sandals. No one will expect you to show up to your first LARP ever with all the highest-end costuming. They’ll just be glad you put a little effort into making something that fits the game. Now you have all you need to build that costume, so go for it! We’ll see you in Evermore soon!

– Written by Brandon W.