Courtiers feasting at elaborately set tables, knights in gleaming armor, a richly clad monarch presiding over elegant festivities: such was life at the medieval and Renaissance courts of Europe. Monarchs and nobles affirmed their power and political authority through pageantry such as hunting, jousting, and banqueting.
Courtiers were served the finest food and drink in elegant vessels, while musical entertainment further enhanced the social theater. Such as this is what you will experience at this one of a kind Renaissance Nobles Banquet.
Attire Guidance:
The overall silhouette for women’s fashion during the Renaissance period was long, flowing dresses with high waists, and long, puffy sleeves. Sleeve styles evolved during the period, with the funnel or trumpet-style sleeve (narrow at the top and wide at the bottom) becoming popular in some areas. Most women dressed in multiple layers, with the wealthiest women wearing as many as five layers of clothing. The top layer, the kirtle, was a tight bodice finished with a long, flowing skirt. Kirtles tended to be adorned with elaborate embroidery, often in silver or gold thread, and precious gems like sapphires and pearls.
The overarching theme of men’s fashion in the Renaissance period was “bigger is better.” Much like the women, elaborate Renaissance attire indicated a higher social status, and garments were designed to make men look bigger. That translated to puffy-shouldered shirts and jackets topped with capes and wide-hipped, knee-length pants worn over tights, with wide-toed shoes. A hat was a must, with most men choosing some type of brimmed cap. As far as adornments, feathers were the accessory of choice for men, with large plumes often festooned upon hats.