The Renaissance Faire is a peculiar event that sprouted from a high school history project in Southern California during the early 1960’s. It has grown into a sub-culture that spans across the United States, Canada and Europe. Some events are solid historically based events, others are hysterical spectacles of flesh and fantasy, clinging to a thread of Renaissance history…
Most everyone throughout the Renaissance World had a belt. They weren't hard to find. You could acquire one from an inexpensive street vendor if you were a little tight on coin, or if you had the change, you could have one studded in pearls ala Walther Raleigh. For Renaissance Faire, you'll need one no matter the station you are portraying. Like way back then, the proper belt is not hard to find and purchase. You want one with a buckle...trust me. Certain "rennies" will tell you a ring belt is accurate, correct, convenient...whatever. While I will concede it's convenient...what you'll pay on something that's an eyesore, looks cheap, piddley, or what-not, could obtain you a belt that is more historically correct, and frankly, nicer...all the way around.
For this installment, I want to show you some period visual resources on Renaissance belts that will give you a little knowledge of what they looked like back then, and what you might want to sport around you belly at Faire...
1559
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1556
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1588
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