As a student, this list seems pretty daunting, but you're not expected to spent your entire student loan on a suit of armour (unless that's your bag)! There's some 2nd-hand clothing to be had, and a number of members can also make/help you make your own. Some of us spent ~£30-40 on our first outfit, others much more. Linen & wool are available locally from ~£5-6 per metre, and medieval clothes are cut to leave as little waste as possible - a simple dress can cost as little as £15 to make (but £50 to buy - ouch)!
IKEA natural-coloured linen: £3.50 p/m
Dunelm mill shop (Newport Road): Roll ends (cotton, damask) from 99p p/m
| MEN | WOMEN |
| shoes (14th century turn shoes) | shoes (14th century turn shoes) |
| Linen Braise | Linen/wool Stockings |
| Tight-fitting Linen/wool Hose | Linen Underdress |
| Linen Shirt, mid thigh lenth | Linen/wool dress, 14th century style |
| Coif | Headdress/hair in period style |
| Belt, 14th Century style | Belt, 14th Century style |
| Pouch and linen bag | Pouch and linen bag (for common types) |
| Knife, bowl, spoon | Knife, bowl, spoon |
| COMBATANTS | ARCHERS |
| 14th century style helmet | Long bow, short bow, self bow, flat bow, or crossbow |
| Gloves (Brown modern or authentic styles only) | Arrows/bolts, quiver or woven arrow bag |
Of course, these are only a guide to what you might want to get - more military equipment can be used dependant on rank, knowledge of rank within period, and appropriate training and ability. Just ask any of our more experienced members for advice.
CHARACTER PORTRAYAL
The castle and surrounding town would have been home to a cross-section of medieval society, from Nobility to slave. Therefore, your character can be of any station you choose! Simply research the relevant knowledge, equipment and training you need to portray that person.
For example.
One may wish to pursue the career of a court huntsman. You will need to know: who hunted and why, what was hunted, and when it was hunted. The Nobility hunted for recreation and also for training in the art of war. Peasants hunted as a means to secure additional food, but were severely limited as to when - and what - they could hunt.
Your equipment would have to consist of expensive hunting tunic, feathered cap, spurs, boar spear, bow etc.
Or perhaps you would choose a lady in waiting. If you were to take up this role you would have knowledge of embroidery, dancing, the running of the court and castle, your duties undertaken for the lady
You need: Posh Court dress made from expensive fabric. A lady to wait on.
