Outfitting a Reenactor

First of all, do not call the clothing worn by a reenactor a "costume." Although some reenactors do not make the distinction, serious reenactors wear reproductions of clothing from the period -  not "costumes" which might be fine for Halloween or amateur stage productions but that compromise authenticity.

The CHAMPLAIN VALLEY HISTORIC REENACTORS acknowledges that there is a wide range of items available to the living historian - all billed as "authentic reproductions" but actually exhibiting a range of qualities from excellent to very poor. Although cost is not an ironclad indication of authenticity, the tendency is for less-expensive items to be of lower quality in terms of construction, materials and authenticity. We would STRONGLY discourage anyone new to reenacting and living history from going out and bargain shopping with sutlers (vendors of reenacting wares) for the cheapest deals in clothing and accoutrements. In the long run this is likely to be more expensive as the reenactor will find him or herself with an inferior "costume" - as opposed to a functional and authentic reproduction of period clothing -  that must eventually be replaced in order to meet desired authenticity standards. Please feel free to seek out the advice of established reenactors in the Champlain Valley Historic Reenactors. Several members of the group are especially knowledgeable in this area.

You can also gain insights and knowledge from the discussions at these online forums: (You may need to sign up or register at the forums in order to get full access and posting permission.)

THE AUTHENTIC CAMPAIGNER

Although all online information must be used judiciously The Authentic Campaigner is regarded as a reliable forum for discussions of authenticity. Items sold at the "Wanting to Sell" forum are generally of high quality. In addition to military topics there are forums for civilian reenactors, as well.

CIVIL WAR REENACTORS DISCUSSION FORUM

The Civil War Reenactors Forum serves a wider range of reenactors than the Authentic Campaigner forum. It also has a classified ads feature although some items offered for sale at this site may not meet higher authenticity standards. In addition to military topics there are forums for civilian reenactors, as well.

The Champlain Valley Historic Reenactors also encourages members to read and do research! Too many reenactors are more interested in playing "dress up" instead of striving to be as authentically outfitted as possible. One of the best recent publications for the military reenactor was The Columbia Rifles Research Compendium (John Tobey, ed.) Although this is currently sold out, many members of the group have purchased copies of this for themselves and there are copies within the group available for loan. It contains excellent information on what to look for in authentic reproduction uniforms and equipment as well as proper period practices for the living historian.  (note: this volume is HIGHLY sought after in the reenactor community now and people who are willing to part with one seek top dollar.)

There are also various Face Book pages dedicated to reenacting and the selling of reenacting gear but proceed with caution in this direction. Do not be afraid to ask for advice from an experienced reenactor.