Deciding on a costume with a British theme is made all the easier by virtue of the fact that England has such a rich and long history. In fact, it is probably more difficult to come up with a great British costume than a costume for another culture precisely because you can get so overwhelmed. The best strategy to creating a memorable British costume therefore begins by zeroing in on a time frame and working from there. Does this Spark an idea?
Elizabethan Period
The Elizabethan period is a terrific place to start if you have the cash to buy a costume. Those long flowing gowns and the complicated and ornate suits that men wore can be found in many costume stores and on the internet. Those with a talent for sewing already know that patterns from this period in British history are plentiful. Characters you might consider are Queen Elizabeth, Shakespeare, "Blackadder II" characters, "Shakespeare in Love" characters and pirates.
Revolutionary Period
British costumes from the revolutionary period are an interesting idea for an Independence Day party. Derisively known as redcoats or lobsterbacks, costuming yourself as soldiers battling American patriots is one way to go. Don't forget whom America was rebelling against, however, and consider going as mad King George III. Don't forget "Blackadder III," set in the same time period.
Victorian England
Victorian England is a period that stretches throughout most of the 19th century. This means you can go as one of Charles Dickens' creations from Oliver Twist to Ebenezer Scrooge. Victorian England was also the period of Sherlock Holmes, Jack the Ripper, and Dracula. You might not think of Dracula as a British costume, but most of the original novel takes place there and the Count dresses accordingly.
British Rock
For a more contemporary costume, consider the various British invasions. British musicians have always been known as much for their stylish and often outrageous dress as for their music. The Beatles alone present multiple opportunities for costume, from the early collarless jacket look and the Nehru jackets to the Sgt. Pepper look. If the Beatles aren't edgy enough, don some leather and spike your hair for the punk rock look. An '80s party is incomplete without the appearance of New Wave sensations like A Flock of Seagulls, Duran Duran or Billy Idol.
Tags: British costume, Victorian England