How To Put Together Clothes For Colonial Day Elementary

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Post on Feb 07, 2025

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How To Put Together Clothes For Colonial Day Elementary

Colonial Day at school is a fun opportunity for kids to learn about history through experience! Costumes are a big part of the day, but putting together a historically accurate (or at least believable!) outfit can be tricky. This guide will walk you through creating a simple yet effective Colonial-era outfit for your elementary schooler.

Understanding Colonial Clothing: Keeping it Simple

Remember, we're aiming for elementary school appropriate, not a museum-quality reproduction. Focus on capturing the essence of Colonial clothing, not achieving perfect historical accuracy. Overly complex outfits can be uncomfortable and impractical for a school day.

Key Elements for a Boy's Colonial Outfit:

• Shirt: A simple, long-sleeved shirt in a light color (white, cream, or light beige) is ideal. It can be linen or cotton – even a plain long-sleeved t-shirt will work in a pinch!
• Pants: Loose-fitting trousers or breeches in brown, dark green, or black. Jeans can work if they are dark-colored and not too tight. Avoid anything overly modern in style.
• Vest (Optional): A simple waistcoat adds a nice touch, but isn't essential. It could be a repurposed sweater vest or a simple vest from a thrift store.
• Shoes: Simple shoes or boots. Even sneakers will work as long as they aren't bright or overly modern-looking.
• Accessories (Optional): A simple hat (a newsboy cap works well) or a kerchief can complete the look.

Key Elements for a Girl's Colonial Outfit:

• Dress: A simple, long or mid-calf length dress is best. Look for a dress with long sleeves and a relatively plain design. A calico print or a solid color (like dark blue, green, or brown) works well. Think simple prairie dress style. Avoid anything too flashy or modern.
• Apron (Optional): An apron adds a nice touch and helps protect the dress. A simple fabric apron in a contrasting color or simple pattern will do.
• Shoes: Simple shoes or low-heeled boots. Again, practical footwear is key for a school day.
• Accessories (Optional): A simple bonnet or a hair ribbon can complete the outfit.

Sourcing Your Colonial Outfit: Where to Find the Pieces

You don't need to spend a fortune! Here's how to source the clothing items:

• Your Closet: Check your own closets or those of family members for suitable items. You might be surprised what you already have!
• Thrift Stores: Thrift stores and consignment shops are excellent places to find inexpensive clothing items that fit the bill.
• Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay or Etsy can be good places to find affordable historical-inspired clothing. However, be mindful of shipping times and costs.
• DIY: For the crafty, sewing a simple shirt, dress, or apron can be a fun family project!

Adding Authentic Touches (Without Overdoing It!)

A few well-chosen details can elevate the outfit without adding significant complexity:

• Fabric Choices: Natural fabrics like linen or cotton are historically accurate, but aren't necessary.
• Hair: Simple braids or a ponytail for girls, and neatly combed hair for boys, are appropriate. Avoid elaborate hairstyles.
• Makeup: No makeup is needed for either boys or girls.

Making it Comfortable and Practical for School

Remember, your child will be spending the whole day in this outfit. Prioritize comfort and practicality:

• Layers: For cooler weather, consider adding layers underneath.
• Fabric: Choose breathable fabrics to avoid overheating.
• Footwear: Choose comfortable and supportive shoes or boots.

By following these tips, you can help your child create a simple, historically-inspired outfit that is perfect for Colonial Day at school. Remember to focus on capturing the overall feeling of the era rather than striving for perfect historical accuracy. Have fun with it!