Steampunk and the Thrift Store

Ok, so now that you have discovered Steampunk and are getting an idea that you want to get out there and do your thing you need an outfit. Money is always the big problem but not to worry, do a little planning, rummage your closet and then head to your local thrifts stores. Basic outfits are relatively easy once you see what your going to need.

A shirt, vest, pants, shoes and a hat. These are the 5 main things you need.  I would suggest figuring out a persona you want to get the outfit for and take along some like minded friends to brainstorm with at the stores. Ransack the store and toss various items into your cart that might work. When you have a bit of a selection take some time and piece them together and try different combinations. Colors and patterns that work well with more than one piece will be a better bet for mixing and matching later when you need more outfits on the run.

    For a basic outfit a Mandarin or straight collar shirt will add a different look for you. If not a basic button collared dress shirt is a good option. Try and avoid prints and modern patterns in favor of solids, stripes or plaids.

    The vest, a basic one will do by maybe find one with pockets. You will find that you will want a pocket watch or a place to stick random items. Sturdy fabrics will hold up in the long run better than the satins and round out your look better till you go beyond the basics.

    Now to the Pants, corduroy, duck cloth (aka heavy cotton or Dickie's carpenter pants) will work well but in a pinch a pair of khakis or casual pants are just fine. If you are going to skip a vest try and find a pair of suspenders for your pants for a more Victorian look rather than a belt.
   
    Shoes first and foremost must feel good, you will find you will be heading to a Steampunk stroll or at a convention and need comfort, so get ones that fit well. Basic brown or black leather shoes (not shiny) will work, laced preferred. Ankle high boots or calf high depending on what type of outfit you want will do you right.

    The tricky find will be a hat. The thin driving hats or sometimes called golfers hats, bowler hats and top hats work great. The Driving Hats are going to be the easiest to find. For a cheap first hat they will be hard to go wrong with. 

   You should be well on your way to a basic outfit to hit your first Steampunk gathering. Steampunk does not have to be a costly hobby. On a side note to this I found a cheap set of old wire frame glasses, the kind that loop over your ear at a flea market for $3. I had lenses put in them and use them as my spare set or my main pair for events. Saved getting new frames and have vintage glasses for events. Good Luck and have fun.


 Sincerely,
~CJ