Entering the steampunk genre can be both overwhelming and
expensive. But it doesn't have to be. Here a few tips to creating your
steampunk look on a budget.
#1 Find Inspiration
Before
you start shopping take some time to decide what type of character you want to
become. Remember to keep it reasonable, looks with lots of leather, or a custom
corset will require custom ordering and a higher price tag.
Once you have decided which look you want surf the internet
and find several pictures similar to what you want. Print these pictures and
write next to each what you like about the look, and what pieces you think are
needed to get that look. If you don’t like something in one of the pictures
make a note of that as well. This step will help when you get to the store and
all the skirts start to look the same.
#2 Check Your Closet
Many
people are amazed by the pieces of their own wardrobe that work well with a
steampunk look. Before you shop at the store, shop in your own closet, you’ll
be amazed by what you find.
#3 Make a List
The
best way to spend too much and get too little is to not make a list. Before you
leave make a list of the items you will need and include a brief description of
each item. It is easy to get confused and distracted once you are in the store.
#4 Make a Budget
Decide
how much you want to spend. Setting a budget helps you not over spend and to stay focused on what you need.
#5 Where to Shop
Great steampunk
pieces can be found at your local thrift stores, or vintage clothing shops. Hot
Topic can also be a good place to find more main stream pieces, including corsets but the prices
are higher.
#6 Shopping
When shopping here are a few tips to remember:
Don’t get stuck on the color: Your inspiration may have
colors or fabrics that are not available, if you find something you love in
another color, don’t shy away.
Don’t plan to modify: Don’t fall into the trap of buying
something that needs a lot of modifications unless you have the ability to
modify it yourself.
***** Tip: For no
sewing required hems try Stitch Witchery from your local craft store. *****
Think outside the box: Your inspirations are just that
inspiration. Don’t get hung up on recreating it exactly. Think outside the box,
or in this case the picture and find what you love.
Thrift shopping can be a fun experience, especially with
friends. So invite a friend and remember to have some fun.
#7 Don’t Forget The Accessories
A great steampunk look is more than just the clothes it’s
the accessories. A great pair of boots, or goggles can turn a simple outfit
steampunk. The great thing is that many of these items are easy and inexpensive
to make. Here are just a few:
Goggles: Goggles come
in a variety of shapes and sizes. Instructables.com has several great tutorials
for making your own.
Guns: A great
accessory is steampunk inspired gun. These can be as simple as a painted nerf
or squirt gun. Below is one example clicking the creators name will take you to the tutorial.
Hats: A variety of hats are available at costume shops and
thrift stores. Adding a few steamy pieces can make them unique and fantastic.
Canes: A straight
cane in black or brown will dress up any outfit and give it a Victorian look.
Jewelry and Watches: Watches are a necessity for steampunk.
All cogs, clocks, and gears are great! For jewelry check your local craft store
for supplies or Etsy for ready made items.
Glasses and Monocles: Uniquely shaped glasses and monocles are also
popular steampunk accessories. Your local costume shop or amazon.com will have
a selection of these.
#8 Bring it All Together
Once
your shopping is complete try it all on together and make changes as needed.
Keep in mind that this is the base you build your look from. Many of the
detailed looks seen at conventions and online are developed over years of
collecting different pieces. Don’t be afraid to make changes and update your
look as you find things you love. You might just be amazed by where it goes and
what you become.
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