Get the look: Pirate

The pirate has long been a beloved character in various forms of media. Their appearance in literature dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Pirate films have been a recurring genre since the 1920s, and their popularity rose again with the introduction of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise and more recently with the TV show Our Flag Means Death.

In most popular media, the appearances of pirates are based on what is called 'the Golden Age of Piracy,' which took place between the 17th and 18th centuries. Therefore, their costumes are usually inspired by the late 17th and early 18th centuries. However, piracy existed long before that time and still exists today, so there are many more options in terms of pirate costumes.

In this blog, we will use the more common representation of pirates as inspiration, but we will show you how to realize that idea with all sorts of different items.

One of the basic pieces in a pirate outfit is the shirt . It is a good basic to start with and offers the possibility to play with layers or a more understated outfit. There is also a lot of variation in the type of shirt you can use. Some prefer a simpler shirt, while others like some extra details such as laces or ruffles. The shirt is generally white or cream-colored, as it is easier to combine with other items, but other colors are certainly an option.

Pirates are usually depicted with straighter pants, not too tight, but also not too loose. They should be comfortable to move in. Of course, you can always play with the type of trousers you wear. Very flared pants, like harem pants, can also look great in a pirate look.

Another very well-known item used in pirate outfits is a scarf or strip of fabric around the waist. This is often combined with one or more leather belts. By tying a type of scarf or fabric belt, you can easily add a small accent of color to your outfit.

An accessory whose importance should not be underestimated is the belt. As a pirate, you need a place to store all your important items... your compass, telescope, money pouch, pistol, you name it. A good belt is the perfect place to hang your items and tuck your pistol underneath. A decorative buckle is an extra bonus to show your success in plundering.

Bags are often seen as a good way to keep your money with you, but they can also contain other important items. For example, gunpowder, dice, and other small artifacts. If you plan to dress up as a pirate for a festival, a bag is a great way to keep your valuables safe and stylish.

Piracy is a dangerous profession, although some might say the danger comes from the pirates themselves. Either way, a weapon is a must-have for every pirate. Stealing, looting, and threatening are difficult without a weapons to back up your words. Pirates also regularly encounter authorities or other pirates, in which case a weapon is needed for self-defense. Weapons come in various options, but the most common weapons for pirates are pistols and swords. Pirates often have to fight in relatively small spaces, so not all types of swords are practical. Sabres are generally considered the preferred swords for pirates.

When you are on open waters, a pirate cannot survive without certain items within reach. Navigating the ocean is quite difficult. 's At night, the stars are a great help, but during the day, a pirate needs a compass to find his way.

Another handy piece of equipment is the telescope. The land is often too far away to see with the naked eye. It is also essential to recognize a ship in the distance as quickly as possible. By the time you can see whether a ship is friend or foe without a telescope, it is too late to avoid any conflict.

These types of small accessories are nice finishing touches for your pirate outfit.

On a pirate ship, rope is used everywhere. Therefore, it's never a bad idea to have some rope with you. It is a great prop to use for photoshoots or just as a fun addition when you're dressed as a pirate at a party or festival.

Perhaps the most iconic accessory in a pirate outfit is the hat. Hats are a great way to keep the sun out of your eyes and protect your head from too much direct sunlight. The most famous type of pirate hat is the tricorn, but there is no need to stick to one specific model.

Some people might think that pirates amassed great wealth by robbing others, but most pirates were not so well-off. Any luxury items they possessed were not bought, but stolen. The coats often used in pirate costumes are a good example of this. What we commonly call "pirate coats" are Justaucorps. This type of coat was worn at the end of the 17th century and throughout the 18th century. The Justaucorps began as a fashionable item for the nobility, and a variation of this design was used in the army and navy. It is generally believed that pirates stole these coats for personal use, and thus the "pirate coat" came into being.

The fun thing about pirate costumes is that you can really go all out with accessories and props. Some have already been mentioned in this blog, but there are many more fun props to use. Items like beer mugs and drinking barrels can be great to use during photoshoots or to take to a festival to add something extra's to your costume. Ultimately, rum and beer should not be forgotten!