What to Wear to a Tolkien Convention: Middle Earth Fashion Advice

Most people might be surprised that Tolkien fan conventions have rules, and these are no the same as Elizabethan Renaissance fairs. If you plan on attending one of these, or are on the fence about signing up, read through these rules first.

Depending on how you dress to attend the event, bone up on your lore. Will you be expected to speak another language? Can you manage an accent? Look through the books and practice likely things to say.

If you are an elf or dwarf, have a name to say and introduce yourself as one. If you are human, be able to name your home kingdom and where you came from. If you are a wizard, prepare to do a magic trick or have a elegant wand or something that makes you look impressive.

If you get a costume, air it out or clean it at least once. Industrial dyes can get smelly in a crowded room, or drip against perspiration. Make sure the seams will hold. If an armhole or leg is too tight, let it out with insets. If there are stones missing in embroidery or some finishes are fraying, touch them up with needle and thread. Most dry cleaners will have an alterations person who can do the trick.

1. Velvet
(Nothing says fancy dress like velvet. The costume designer for Lord of the Rings Ngila Dickson washed the velvet cloth custom loomed for the films again and again to make it soft and worn.)

2. Swords
(Lots of fake swords are available online, On Ebay, or for rent or sale at costume shops. The quality and price will be determined by how authentic you want to look. Practice posing as if you are ready for battle or in a courtly manner.)

3. Crowns

4. Boots

5. Chain Mail

6. Cloaks
(Cloaks are acceptable wear and can block the view of collars, shirts or regular street wear. Cloaks can be fabric, or velvet or suede. Even ultra suede works well. Any damask of velvet or silk works for women, the best being satin or silk velvet.)

7. Hair
(Hair should be long for men and women. Those with short hair need to wear a cap, earring, some kind of military war dress.)