Every rennie has a first faire story… and most of them involve whispers of being called “naked.” To those of us in guilds, “naked” isn’t an insult—it’s the playful way we describe anyone walking around in mundane clothes, like jeans and t-shirts, while the rest of the village is alive with color, garb, and imagination. If you’ve ever shown up to a faire in your regular clothes and felt just a little out of place, trust me—you’re not alone.

The truth is, everyone starts somewhere. And the journey from “naked” to fully-fledged rennie isn’t just about clothes—it’s about belonging, creativity, and telling a story with what you wear.

Most people’s first step is a trip to the thrift store or the Halloween aisle. Maybe it’s a curtain repurposed into a cloak, a blouse that vaguely looks medieval, or a pair of boots that sort of fit the part.

And you know what? Even the shower curtain cloak counts.

Because what it says is: “I tried.”

At faire, that matters. It shows respect for the work everyone else has put in, and it opens the door for guildies and vendors to pull you into the play. With just a little tweaking and imagination, thrift finds can become surprisingly amazing garb.

After a few faires, though, you start to notice the difference between thrifted costumes and artisan gear. That cheap belt pouch might tear, or those “costume boots” may not survive the mud. This is when most fairegoers make their first real investment—something small but practical, like a sturdy leather pouch that actually holds what you need, or a hat that earns a compliment from a stranger. These pieces don’t just last longer—they feel different when you wear them. And more often than not, that first real investment becomes a treasured keepsake.

From there, garb starts to take on a life of its own. What began as a mix of random pieces starts to transform into a persona. Maybe you lean into a pirate’s swagger, a courtier’s elegance, or a rogue’s mystery. Each new piece starts to tell a story about who you are at faire. And here’s a little secret: most seasoned rennies don’t stop at one persona. Many have more than one faire-sona, with completely different outfits and backstories for each day of the festival. Day one, you’re a mischievous rogue. Day two, a noble with a feathered cap. Day three, a dragon masked and cloaked in mystery. This is when garb becomes art—it’s not just about dressing up, it’s about stepping fully into another life.

Eventually, though, there comes a time when even the best off-the-rack garb isn’t enough. The persona you’ve built is too vivid, the story too rich, to be told with something mass-produced. That’s when the ultimate upgrade calls: custom commissions. These aren’t just costumes—they’re heirlooms. A hand-tooled cuirass, a one-of-a-kind dragon mask, a pouch designed specifically for your character’s role. These are the pieces that stop people in their tracks, spark conversations, and connect you instantly with others who see the story in what you wear.

The faire is about transformation, and garb is one of the most visible signs of it. From being called “naked” to layering yourself in custom artisan work, every step is valid, and every piece is a story. Maybe you’re just starting with a thrift cloak. Maybe you’re ready for your first pouch or hat. Or maybe you’re dreaming of the ultimate heirloom commission. Wherever you are, you’re on the path—and that’s what matters. Because garb isn’t just clothing. It’s the way we weave ourselves into the magic of the faire.

And may your next upgrade bring your persona to life.
HIP HIP... HUZZAH!