February 28, 2006

What to Wear to a "Costume Optional" Vintage Dance

Most of the vintage dance events around here say things like "Historical attire suggested but not required" or "..admired but not required". The problem is, what does it mean to someone who doesn't have the historical costume. Sure, it's not required, but what is?

This may vary depending on the event, but with nearly every event, a man in a coat and tie would not be out of place, nor would a woman in a long dress.

An observation made by the Social Daunce Irregulars on their website is that it is best, if you are not currently deeply into historical costumes, to NOT wear a costume to your first event, but take the opportunity to see what others are wearing and also see if you like this vintage dance stuff. It would be an awful shame to spend hundreds of dollars on a costume and (1) see from looking at others that it was a crappy costume or (2) decide that you don't really like this vintage dance thing after all, and you have now flushed hundreds of bucks down the toilet for a costume you will never wear again.

Posted by Walter at 07:35 PM

February 22, 2006

Thoughts on Programming a Victorian Dance

I am frequently asked for suggestions for putting on a vintage dance. Here are some of my thoughts on the elements of a successful program. I realize there are many successful events that don't follow these rules, but this has worked for us.

Good band--live music--n'uf said.

Be wary of dinners. They often cut in to the dancing due to logistics of serving a large group and people taking their time at their meal. Furthermore, even with the best intentions, they can be subject to logistical crises that can hammer your schedule.

Continue reading "Thoughts on Programming a Victorian Dance"

Posted by Walter at 07:18 PM | Comments (4)

February 17, 2006

What Makes a Good Living History Costume

Historical correctness, simplicity and appropriateness are what make a good costume for a living history interpreter.

Historical Correctness
In terms of historical correctness, it should, of course, be cut in a manner that is right for the time and place being portrayed. That should go without saying, but I have seen too many hoop skirts in 1880s portrayals and bustles lurking about the Civil War.

Continue reading "What Makes a Good Living History Costume"

Posted by Walter at 09:15 AM