Hi folks! I'm not sure if anyone on these boards is an historical reenactor, but I'm looking for a place where I can find period costumes from the colonial era. Back when I taught ancient history I used to dress up in costume for certain lessons. In those days I made the costumes myself. They weren't super authentic by any means, but they got the point across. Now that I'm teaching at the college level, I'd like to continue dressing up for classes. (I actually did my MSEd research on costume in the classroom, so I feel like I should be doing it...) My college's foundation provides grants each year to faculty who wish to try new engaging ideas. We can apply for anywhere from $1,000-$3,000 for the project. I'd like to apply for this costume project, but I'm looking for places that I can actually purchase the attire from. Does anyone here know of any good places online? Thanks! Matt
Kudos to you. This is an awesome idea. I had a teacher way back in middle school (late 1980's) who used to do this. We (students) thought he was nuts. But you know what? The lessons stuck, I remember them vividly to this day. Try searching in ebay or Amazon, also look for any LARP groups/meetings in your area. I found this website that sells anything medieval to steampunk clothing. http://www.pearsonsrenaissanceshoppe.com/larp-clothing.html
Huge on-line costume catalog; everything in many sizes; there is a Colonial section. Rubie's Costumes - Wigs, Makeup, & Halloween Accessories
Check with Colonial Williamsburg, they have professional reenactors. See Source List : The Colonial Williamsburg Official History & Citizenship Site
You might try going to a Civil War re-enactment or a mediaeval fair and you'll likely find a booth where they have period costumes. You can also go to Amazon.com: Online Shopping for Electronics, Apparel, Computers, Books, DVDs & more and look up books on historical costuming.