Costume - Revision history

Twiggy at 16:10, 2 October 2025

2025-10-02T16:10:28Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:10, 2 October 2025
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	[[Category:Rules]]		[[Category:Rules]]
	==Overview==		==Overview==
	In a live roleplaying game, the more effort every participant makes with their costume, the better the game becomes for everybody. By costume we don't just mean your character's clothing, we mean everything your ~~charater~~ has - any weapons and armour, as well as any props or set dressing that you bring to the event. The more convincing these things are, and the less modern items there are visible in the game, then the more [[The_game#Immersive_and_Aspirational\|immersive]] and real the event feels for everyone.		In a live roleplaying game, the more effort every participant makes with their costume, the better the game becomes for everybody. By costume we don't just mean your character's clothing, we mean everything your character has - any weapons and armour, as well as any props or set dressing that you bring to the event. The more convincing these things are, and the less modern items there are visible in the game, then the more [[The_game#Immersive_and_Aspirational\|immersive]] and real the event feels for everyone.

	Empire is a [[The_setting#Closed_World\|closed world]] which means you can't just wear whatever you like. There is a [[#Look and Feel\|look and feel guide]] for each of the ten nations in Empire that provides canonical descriptions of what the costume for that nation should look like. Empire is an [[#Aspirational Game\|aspirational game]], and we ask everyone involved to follow the guide for their nation and try to have the best costume they can.		Empire is a [[The_setting#Closed_World\|closed world]] which means you can't just wear whatever you like. There is a [[#Look and Feel\|look and feel guide]] for each of the ten nations in Empire that provides canonical descriptions of what the costume for that nation should look like. Empire is an [[#Aspirational Game\|aspirational game]], and we ask everyone involved to follow the guide for their nation and try to have the best costume they can.
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	In creating the look and feel guides for Empire, we were inspired by historical sources but also by modern fantasy films like ''Lord of the Rings'' and shows like ''Game of Thrones''. Many of the costumes from these modern productions are fantastic and fit well with some nations in Empire, but it's better to try and create an overall look that is original if you can rather than copying a well known figure exactly. Many of Cersei Lannister's outfits are fantastic inspiration for Dawnish costume, but the more you look like Cersei, the more it will remind other players of ''Game of Thrones'' rather than Empire, so it's better to aim for something new rather than try to emulate it exactly.		In creating the look and feel guides for Empire, we were inspired by historical sources but also by modern fantasy films like ''Lord of the Rings'' and shows like ''Game of Thrones''. Many of the costumes from these modern productions are fantastic and fit well with some nations in Empire, but it's better to try and create an overall look that is original if you can rather than copying a well known figure exactly. Many of Cersei Lannister's outfits are fantastic inspiration for Dawnish costume, but the more you look like Cersei, the more it will remind other players of ''Game of Thrones'' rather than Empire, so it's better to aim for something new rather than try to emulate it exactly.

	Subtle magical elements like glowing runes on weapons are fine, but weapons in Empire, including magical items made by artisans, are made of steel or mithril (or wood for a ~~quaterstaff~~ or similar). A player-character ''cannot'' fashion or just find a sword made from glass or similar. Your character can't have a weapon made of such a material unless they have gained it in play, in which case it will have a ribbon on it to indicate its magical nature and its history. If that is the most appropriate weapon that you have then it is fine to use the phys-rep until you can replace it, provided you don't draw attention to it. These restrictions only apply to ''weapons'' - it's fine to have a sacrificial dagger that appears to be made out of bone as a ritual prop for example.		Subtle magical elements like glowing runes on weapons are fine, but weapons in Empire, including magical items made by artisans, are made of steel or mithril (or wood for a quarterstaff or similar). A player-character ''cannot'' fashion or just find a sword made from glass or similar. Your character can't have a weapon made of such a material unless they have gained it in play, in which case it will have a ribbon on it to indicate its magical nature and its history. If that is the most appropriate weapon that you have then it is fine to use the phys-rep until you can replace it, provided you don't draw attention to it. These restrictions only apply to ''weapons'' - it's fine to have a sacrificial dagger that appears to be made out of bone as a ritual prop for example.

	Empire has its own unique [[runes]] instead of real world runic scripts like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Runes Futhark] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ogham Ogham]. You can still use costume that is marked with these runes but they are ''less appropriate'' than those without, and have no particular meaning in the Empire world. The game has its own [[Magical_tradition\|magical traditions]] embedded in the setting; this means that most occult or magical symbols from real world traditions likewise have no meaning in the game unless it is explicitly called out by the setting.		Empire has its own unique [[runes]] instead of real world runic scripts like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Runes Futhark] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ogham Ogham]. You can still use costume that is marked with these runes but they are ''less appropriate'' than those without, and have no particular meaning in the Empire world. The game has its own [[Magical_tradition\|magical traditions]] embedded in the setting; this means that most occult or magical symbols from real world traditions likewise have no meaning in the game unless it is explicitly called out by the setting.
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	===Footwear===		===Footwear===
	* '''Comfort and safety are more important than immersion'''		* '''Comfort and safety are more important than immersion'''
	The site we use for Empire is uneven and often cold, wet, and muddy. There are natural trip hazards in the battle areas and pegs and guy ropes in the main field. The priority for any footwear that you use in-character is to provide good ankle support and keep your feet dry. Dark-coloured boots are always acceptable for use at Empire, but it's fine to use similar coloured wellies when the weather makes them necessary. Modern footwear is generally [[#Less ~~Approprtiate~~ Costume\|less appropriate]], but as long as it meets our [[#Minimum Standards\|minimum standards]] then it is still acceptable.		The site we use for Empire is uneven and often cold, wet, and muddy. There are natural trip hazards in the battle areas and pegs and guy ropes in the main field. The priority for any footwear that you use in-character is to provide good ankle support and keep your feet dry. Dark-coloured boots are always acceptable for use at Empire, but it's fine to use similar coloured wellies when the weather makes them necessary. Modern footwear is generally [[#Less Appropriate Costume\|less appropriate]], but as long as it meets our [[#Minimum Standards\|minimum standards]] then it is still acceptable.

	Good in-character footwear can be a fantastic addition that makes a good costume look great. But in-character footwear is expensive to buy or make and we advise new players that paying money for in-character footwear is rarely the best way to spend a limited budget. One alternative to buying footwear is to use some appropriate-looking [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaiters gaiters]. These can be used to hide some of the modern details of boots or shoes without costing too much or compromising on safety for your feet and ankles.		Good in-character footwear can be a fantastic addition that makes a good costume look great. But in-character footwear is expensive to buy or make and we advise new players that paying money for in-character footwear is rarely the best way to spend a limited budget. One alternative to buying footwear is to use some appropriate-looking [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaiters gaiters]. These can be used to hide some of the modern details of boots or shoes without costing too much or compromising on safety for your feet and ankles.

Matt: /* Less Appropriate Costume */

2025-04-20T10:13:52Z

Less Appropriate Costume

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:13, 20 April 2025
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	In creating the look and feel guides for Empire, we were inspired by historical sources but also by modern fantasy films like ''Lord of the Rings'' and shows like ''Game of Thrones''. Many of the costumes from these modern productions are fantastic and fit well with some nations in Empire, but it's better to try and create an overall look that is original if you can rather than copying a well known figure exactly. Many of Cersei Lannister's outfits are fantastic inspiration for Dawnish costume, but the more you look like Cersei, the more it will remind other players of ''Game of Thrones'' rather than Empire, so it's better to aim for something new rather than try to emulate it exactly.		In creating the look and feel guides for Empire, we were inspired by historical sources but also by modern fantasy films like ''Lord of the Rings'' and shows like ''Game of Thrones''. Many of the costumes from these modern productions are fantastic and fit well with some nations in Empire, but it's better to try and create an overall look that is original if you can rather than copying a well known figure exactly. Many of Cersei Lannister's outfits are fantastic inspiration for Dawnish costume, but the more you look like Cersei, the more it will remind other players of ''Game of Thrones'' rather than Empire, so it's better to aim for something new rather than try to emulate it exactly.

	Subtle magical elements like glowing runes on weapons are fine, but weapons in Empire, including magical items made by artisans, are made of steel or mithril (or wood for a quaterstaff or similar). A player-character ''cannot'' fashion or just find a sword made from glass or similar. Your character can't have a weapon made of such a material unless they have gained it in play, in which case it will have a ribbon on it to indicate its magical nature and its history. If that is the ~~only~~ weapon you have then it is fine to use the phys-rep until you can replace it, provided you don't draw attention to it. These restrictions only apply to ''weapons'' - it's fine to have a sacrificial dagger that appears to be made out of bone as a ritual prop for example.		Subtle magical elements like glowing runes on weapons are fine, but weapons in Empire, including magical items made by artisans, are made of steel or mithril (or wood for a quaterstaff or similar). A player-character ''cannot'' fashion or just find a sword made from glass or similar. Your character can't have a weapon made of such a material unless they have gained it in play, in which case it will have a ribbon on it to indicate its magical nature and its history. If that is the most appropriate weapon that you have then it is fine to use the phys-rep until you can replace it, provided you don't draw attention to it. These restrictions only apply to ''weapons'' - it's fine to have a sacrificial dagger that appears to be made out of bone as a ritual prop for example.

	Empire has its own unique [[runes]] instead of real world runic scripts like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Runes Futhark] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ogham Ogham]. You can still use costume that is marked with these runes but they are ''less appropriate'' than those without, and have no particular meaning in the Empire world. The game has its own [[Magical_tradition\|magical traditions]] embedded in the setting; this means that most occult or magical symbols from real world traditions likewise have no meaning in the game unless it is explicitly called out by the setting.		Empire has its own unique [[runes]] instead of real world runic scripts like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Runes Futhark] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ogham Ogham]. You can still use costume that is marked with these runes but they are ''less appropriate'' than those without, and have no particular meaning in the Empire world. The game has its own [[Magical_tradition\|magical traditions]] embedded in the setting; this means that most occult or magical symbols from real world traditions likewise have no meaning in the game unless it is explicitly called out by the setting.

Matt: /* Less Appropriate Costume */

2025-04-20T10:12:41Z

Less Appropriate Costume

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:12, 20 April 2025
Line 45:		Line 45:
	In creating the look and feel guides for Empire, we were inspired by historical sources but also by modern fantasy films like ''Lord of the Rings'' and shows like ''Game of Thrones''. Many of the costumes from these modern productions are fantastic and fit well with some nations in Empire, but it's better to try and create an overall look that is original if you can rather than copying a well known figure exactly. Many of Cersei Lannister's outfits are fantastic inspiration for Dawnish costume, but the more you look like Cersei, the more it will remind other players of ''Game of Thrones'' rather than Empire, so it's better to aim for something new rather than try to emulate it exactly.		In creating the look and feel guides for Empire, we were inspired by historical sources but also by modern fantasy films like ''Lord of the Rings'' and shows like ''Game of Thrones''. Many of the costumes from these modern productions are fantastic and fit well with some nations in Empire, but it's better to try and create an overall look that is original if you can rather than copying a well known figure exactly. Many of Cersei Lannister's outfits are fantastic inspiration for Dawnish costume, but the more you look like Cersei, the more it will remind other players of ''Game of Thrones'' rather than Empire, so it's better to aim for something new rather than try to emulate it exactly.

	Subtle magical elements like glowing runes on weapons are fine, but ~~a weapon that would need magic simply to function is not. In~~ Empire~~, normal weapons~~, including magical items made by artisans, are made of steel or mithril (or wood for a quaterstaff or similar). A player-character ''cannot'' fashion or just find a sword made from glass or similar. Your character can't have a weapon made of such a material unless they have gained it in play, in which case it will have a ribbon on it to indicate its magical nature and its history. If that is the only weapon you have then it is fine to use the phys-rep until you can replace it, provided you don't draw attention to it. These restrictions only apply to ''weapons'' - it's fine to have a sacrificial dagger that appears to be made out of bone as a ritual prop for example.		Subtle magical elements like glowing runes on weapons are fine, but weapons in Empire, including magical items made by artisans, are made of steel or mithril (or wood for a quaterstaff or similar). A player-character ''cannot'' fashion or just find a sword made from glass or similar. Your character can't have a weapon made of such a material unless they have gained it in play, in which case it will have a ribbon on it to indicate its magical nature and its history. If that is the only weapon you have then it is fine to use the phys-rep until you can replace it, provided you don't draw attention to it. These restrictions only apply to ''weapons'' - it's fine to have a sacrificial dagger that appears to be made out of bone as a ritual prop for example.

	Empire has its own unique [[runes]] instead of real world runic scripts like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Runes Futhark] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ogham Ogham]. You can still use costume that is marked with these runes but they are ''less appropriate'' than those without, and have no particular meaning in the Empire world. The game has its own [[Magical_tradition\|magical traditions]] embedded in the setting; this means that most occult or magical symbols from real world traditions likewise have no meaning in the game unless it is explicitly called out by the setting.		Empire has its own unique [[runes]] instead of real world runic scripts like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Runes Futhark] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ogham Ogham]. You can still use costume that is marked with these runes but they are ''less appropriate'' than those without, and have no particular meaning in the Empire world. The game has its own [[Magical_tradition\|magical traditions]] embedded in the setting; this means that most occult or magical symbols from real world traditions likewise have no meaning in the game unless it is explicitly called out by the setting.

Matt: /* Less Appropriate Costume */

2025-04-20T10:11:51Z

Less Appropriate Costume

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:11, 20 April 2025
Line 45:		Line 45:
	In creating the look and feel guides for Empire, we were inspired by historical sources but also by modern fantasy films like ''Lord of the Rings'' and shows like ''Game of Thrones''. Many of the costumes from these modern productions are fantastic and fit well with some nations in Empire, but it's better to try and create an overall look that is original if you can rather than copying a well known figure exactly. Many of Cersei Lannister's outfits are fantastic inspiration for Dawnish costume, but the more you look like Cersei, the more it will remind other players of ''Game of Thrones'' rather than Empire, so it's better to aim for something new rather than try to emulate it exactly.		In creating the look and feel guides for Empire, we were inspired by historical sources but also by modern fantasy films like ''Lord of the Rings'' and shows like ''Game of Thrones''. Many of the costumes from these modern productions are fantastic and fit well with some nations in Empire, but it's better to try and create an overall look that is original if you can rather than copying a well known figure exactly. Many of Cersei Lannister's outfits are fantastic inspiration for Dawnish costume, but the more you look like Cersei, the more it will remind other players of ''Game of Thrones'' rather than Empire, so it's better to aim for something new rather than try to emulate it exactly.

	~~Empire is a~~ magical ~~setting, so subtle~~ elements like glowing runes on weapons are fine, but a weapon that would need magic simply to function is not. ~~Flaming swords or~~ weapons made of ~~ice,~~ glass~~, crystal, bone~~ or similar ~~materials are incredibly rare in Empire, if they exist at all~~. Your character can't have a weapon made of such a material unless they have gained it in play, in which case it will have a ribbon on it to indicate its magical nature and its history. If that is the only weapon you have then it is fine to use it until you can replace it, provided you don't draw attention to it. These restrictions only apply to ''weapons'' - it's fine to have a sacrificial dagger that appears to be made out of bone as a ritual prop for example.		Subtle magical elements like glowing runes on weapons are fine, but a weapon that would need magic simply to function is not. In Empire, normal weapons, including magical items made by artisans, are made of steel or mithril (or wood for a quaterstaff or similar). A player-character ''cannot'' fashion or just find a sword made from glass or similar. Your character can't have a weapon made of such a material unless they have gained it in play, in which case it will have a ribbon on it to indicate its magical nature and its history. If that is the only weapon you have then it is fine to use the phys-rep until you can replace it, provided you don't draw attention to it. These restrictions only apply to ''weapons'' - it's fine to have a sacrificial dagger that appears to be made out of bone as a ritual prop for example.

	Empire has its own unique [[runes]] instead of real world runic scripts like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Runes Futhark] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ogham Ogham]. You can still use costume that is marked with these runes but they are ''less appropriate'' than those without, and have no particular meaning in the Empire world. The game has its own [[Magical_tradition\|magical traditions]] embedded in the setting; this means that most occult or magical symbols from real world traditions likewise have no meaning in the game unless it is explicitly called out by the setting.		Empire has its own unique [[runes]] instead of real world runic scripts like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Runes Futhark] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ogham Ogham]. You can still use costume that is marked with these runes but they are ''less appropriate'' than those without, and have no particular meaning in the Empire world. The game has its own [[Magical_tradition\|magical traditions]] embedded in the setting; this means that most occult or magical symbols from real world traditions likewise have no meaning in the game unless it is explicitly called out by the setting.



	When you encounter costume that is ''less appropriate'' you should try to ignore it. Live-roleplaying games are full of compromises like this and the game works best when everyone avoids drawing attention to them. This means that you shouldn't make a piece of ''less appropriate'' costume a key part of your character's backstory or personality, or create an in-character rationale to justify why you have it. Making something an integral part of your character's story makes it harder for everyone else to ignore the compromise and it makes it harder for you to replace the item with something better when you're able to do so.		When you encounter costume that is ''less appropriate'' you should try to ignore it. Live-roleplaying games are full of compromises like this and the game works best when everyone avoids drawing attention to them. This means that you shouldn't make a piece of ''less appropriate'' costume a key part of your character's backstory or personality, or create an in-character rationale to justify why you have it. Making something an integral part of your character's story makes it harder for everyone else to ignore the compromise and it makes it harder for you to replace the item with something better when you're able to do so.

Matt: /* Less Appropriate Costume */

2025-04-20T10:08:22Z

Less Appropriate Costume

Matt: /* Inappropriate Costume */

2025-04-20T10:02:29Z

Inappropriate Costume

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:02, 20 April 2025
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	While there are some anachronistic technologies in Empire they are explicitly [[technology\|called out]] as being part of the game. Explosives such as gunpowder will never exist in Empire, so you cannot use any bomb, pistol, musket, or other firearm at an event. Weapons in Empire must be based on common historical examples found in Europe up to the early 16th century - except where other weapons are explicitly included in a nation's brief. This means that fantasy weapons like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bat%27leth bat'leths], [https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/DoubleWeapon double-bladed swords], or over-sized weapons such as those common in anime, cannot be used at Empire. You can always [mailto:matt@profounddecisions.co.uk email us] to check if a weapon is acceptable for your nation at Empire if you are concerned.		While there are some anachronistic technologies in Empire they are explicitly [[technology\|called out]] as being part of the game. Explosives such as gunpowder will never exist in Empire, so you cannot use any bomb, pistol, musket, or other firearm at an event. Weapons in Empire must be based on common historical examples found in Europe up to the early 16th century - except where other weapons are explicitly included in a nation's brief. This means that fantasy weapons like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bat%27leth bat'leths], [https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/DoubleWeapon double-bladed swords], or over-sized weapons such as those common in anime, cannot be used at Empire. You can always [mailto:matt@profounddecisions.co.uk email us] to check if a weapon is acceptable for your nation at Empire if you are concerned.

	Empire is a magical setting, so subtle elements like glowing runes on weapons are fine, but a weapon that would need magic simply to function at all is not. Flaming swords or weapons made of ice, glass or similar materials are incredibly rare in Empire, if they exist at all. You can't have such a weapon unless your character has gained it in play, in which case it will have a ribbon on it to indicate its magical nature and its history. High fantasy creations are fine as ritual props for magicians but not as weapons used by warriors on the battlefield.

	Most live roleplaying games adopt costume and imagery from real-world sources, but we want to avoid using items that are culturally sacred in real life because it is more difficult to ignore their real world significance. Religious items such as a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crucifix crucifix], a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mj%C3%B6lnir Mjölnir pendant], or a statue of a religious figure like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gautama_Buddha Buddha] or [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha Ganesha] must not be used as props at Empire. Obviously it is fine to have one on your person if you are an adherent of that religion, but the real thing must not be used as a prop in the game. This prohibition also applies to specific items that are sacrosanct or have significant cultural importance like a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_bonnet First Nation war bonnet] or a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dreamcatcher dream catcher]. (This last part is a new rule so we are giving people until event three 2025 to make any changes needed to their existing costume).		Most live roleplaying games adopt costume and imagery from real-world sources, but we want to avoid using items that are culturally sacred in real life because it is more difficult to ignore their real world significance. Religious items such as a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crucifix crucifix], a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mj%C3%B6lnir Mjölnir pendant], or a statue of a religious figure like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gautama_Buddha Buddha] or [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha Ganesha] must not be used as props at Empire. Obviously it is fine to have one on your person if you are an adherent of that religion, but the real thing must not be used as a prop in the game. This prohibition also applies to specific items that are sacrosanct or have significant cultural importance like a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_bonnet First Nation war bonnet] or a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dreamcatcher dream catcher]. (This last part is a new rule so we are giving people until event three 2025 to make any changes needed to their existing costume).

Gamma3000: /* Inappropriate Costume */ specify year for dreamcatcher rules changing, because we won't remember to come back when "this year" is no longer accurate

2025-04-07T22:05:36Z

Inappropriate Costume: specify year for dreamcatcher rules changing, because we won't remember to come back when "this year" is no longer accurate

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:05, 7 April 2025
Line 64:		Line 64:
	Empire is a magical setting, so subtle elements like glowing runes on weapons are fine, but a weapon that would need magic simply to function at all is not. Flaming swords or weapons made of ice, glass or similar materials are incredibly rare in Empire, if they exist at all. You can't have such a weapon unless your character has gained it in play, in which case it will have a ribbon on it to indicate its magical nature and its history. High fantasy creations are fine as ritual props for magicians but not as weapons used by warriors on the battlefield.		Empire is a magical setting, so subtle elements like glowing runes on weapons are fine, but a weapon that would need magic simply to function at all is not. Flaming swords or weapons made of ice, glass or similar materials are incredibly rare in Empire, if they exist at all. You can't have such a weapon unless your character has gained it in play, in which case it will have a ribbon on it to indicate its magical nature and its history. High fantasy creations are fine as ritual props for magicians but not as weapons used by warriors on the battlefield.

	Most live roleplaying games adopt costume and imagery from real-world sources, but we want to avoid using items that are culturally sacred in real life because it is more difficult to ignore their real world significance. Religious items such as a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crucifix crucifix], a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mj%C3%B6lnir Mjölnir pendant], or a statue of a religious figure like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gautama_Buddha Buddha] or [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha Ganesha] must not be used as props at Empire. Obviously it is fine to have one on your person if you are an adherent of that religion, but the real thing must not be used as a prop in the game. This prohibition also applies to specific items that are sacrosanct or have significant cultural importance like a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_bonnet First Nation war bonnet] or a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dreamcatcher dream catcher]. (This last part is a new rule so we are giving people until event three ~~this year~~ to make any changes needed to their existing costume).		Most live roleplaying games adopt costume and imagery from real-world sources, but we want to avoid using items that are culturally sacred in real life because it is more difficult to ignore their real world significance. Religious items such as a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crucifix crucifix], a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mj%C3%B6lnir Mjölnir pendant], or a statue of a religious figure like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gautama_Buddha Buddha] or [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha Ganesha] must not be used as props at Empire. Obviously it is fine to have one on your person if you are an adherent of that religion, but the real thing must not be used as a prop in the game. This prohibition also applies to specific items that are sacrosanct or have significant cultural importance like a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_bonnet First Nation war bonnet] or a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dreamcatcher dream catcher]. (This last part is a new rule so we are giving people until event three 2025 to make any changes needed to their existing costume).

	Because parts of Empire are inspired by real world costume and cultures, there are many elements of the setting that are derived from things in the real world that have cultural importance or value. We want to be honest about these inspirations, but wherever possible we want to use that inspiration to create something specific to Empire. For example, if you want to use [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prayer_beads prayer beads] as a prop then it is best to create your own unique arrangement that builds on the seven virtues of [[the Way]] so that it is distinct from an actual [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japamala Japamala] or a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosary Rosary] or similar.		Because parts of Empire are inspired by real world costume and cultures, there are many elements of the setting that are derived from things in the real world that have cultural importance or value. We want to be honest about these inspirations, but wherever possible we want to use that inspiration to create something specific to Empire. For example, if you want to use [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prayer_beads prayer beads] as a prop then it is best to create your own unique arrangement that builds on the seven virtues of [[the Way]] so that it is distinct from an actual [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japamala Japamala] or a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosary Rosary] or similar.

Matt: /* Inappropriate Costume */

2025-04-07T20:31:37Z

Inappropriate Costume

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:31, 7 April 2025
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	Empire is a magical setting, so subtle elements like glowing runes on weapons are fine, but a weapon that would need magic simply to function at all is not. Flaming swords or weapons made of ice, glass or similar materials are incredibly rare in Empire, if they exist at all. You can't have such a weapon unless your character has gained it in play, in which case it will have a ribbon on it to indicate its magical nature and its history. High fantasy creations are fine as ritual props for magicians but not as weapons used by warriors on the battlefield.		Empire is a magical setting, so subtle elements like glowing runes on weapons are fine, but a weapon that would need magic simply to function at all is not. Flaming swords or weapons made of ice, glass or similar materials are incredibly rare in Empire, if they exist at all. You can't have such a weapon unless your character has gained it in play, in which case it will have a ribbon on it to indicate its magical nature and its history. High fantasy creations are fine as ritual props for magicians but not as weapons used by warriors on the battlefield.

	Most live roleplaying games adopt costume and imagery from real-world sources, but we want to avoid using items that are culturally sacred in real life because it is more difficult to ignore their real world significance. Religious items such as a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crucifix crucifix], a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mj%C3%B6lnir Mjölnir pendant], or a statue of a religious figure like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gautama_Buddha Buddha] or [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha Ganesha] must not be used as props at Empire. Obviously it is fine to have one on your person if you are an adherent of that religion, but the real thing must not be used as a prop in the game. This prohibition also applies to specific items that are sacrosanct or have significant cultural importance like a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_bonnet First Nation war bonnet].		Most live roleplaying games adopt costume and imagery from real-world sources, but we want to avoid using items that are culturally sacred in real life because it is more difficult to ignore their real world significance. Religious items such as a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crucifix crucifix], a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mj%C3%B6lnir Mjölnir pendant], or a statue of a religious figure like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gautama_Buddha Buddha] or [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha Ganesha] must not be used as props at Empire. Obviously it is fine to have one on your person if you are an adherent of that religion, but the real thing must not be used as a prop in the game. This prohibition also applies to specific items that are sacrosanct or have significant cultural importance like a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_bonnet First Nation war bonnet] or a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dreamcatcher dream catcher]. (This last part is a new rule so we are giving people until event three this year to make any changes needed to their existing costume).

	Because parts of Empire are inspired by real world costume and cultures, there are many elements of the setting that are derived from things in the real world that have cultural importance or value. We want to be honest about these inspirations, but wherever possible we want to use that inspiration to create something specific to Empire. For example, if you want to use [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prayer_beads prayer beads] as a prop then it is best to create your own unique arrangement that builds on the seven virtues of [[the Way]] so that it is distinct from an actual [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japamala Japamala] or a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosary Rosary] or similar.		Because parts of Empire are inspired by real world costume and cultures, there are many elements of the setting that are derived from things in the real world that have cultural importance or value. We want to be honest about these inspirations, but wherever possible we want to use that inspiration to create something specific to Empire. For example, if you want to use [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prayer_beads prayer beads] as a prop then it is best to create your own unique arrangement that builds on the seven virtues of [[the Way]] so that it is distinct from an actual [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japamala Japamala] or a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosary Rosary] or similar.

Spoondog at 13:29, 1 August 2024

2024-08-01T13:29:51Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:29, 1 August 2024
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	Our events feature separate in-character and out-of-character camping areas. A tent intended for use on the in-character field must look appropriate for the setting. Modern-looking nylon dome tents, party tents, and tents that are obviously synthetic, such as those made from any material that is sufficiently plastic that it becomes glossy and reflective, cannot be used in the in-character area.		Our events feature separate in-character and out-of-character camping areas. A tent intended for use on the in-character field must look appropriate for the setting. Modern-looking nylon dome tents, party tents, and tents that are obviously synthetic, such as those made from any material that is sufficiently plastic that it becomes glossy and reflective, cannot be used in the in-character area.

	The ideal tent is made of canvas but some fabrics that are part plastic or impregnated with plastic, can be used provided that the material is thick enough and not reflective. The crucial test is that the material must look passably in-character and not have a modern or reflective appearance. The thinner plain-coloured tents such as [https://www.boutiquecamping.com/tents-c1/classic-bell-tent-oxford-p1534 the 100gsm bell tent from Oxford Boutique] look too much like modern nylon tents to be used in the in-character area at events ~~whereas the multi-coloured ones look sufficiently like canvas that they can be used (and are great in nations like the Brass Coast or Dawn)~~. If in any doubt at all, then please [mailto:clare@profounddecisions.co.uk email us] for advice.		The ideal tent is made of canvas but some fabrics that are part plastic or impregnated with plastic, can be used provided that the material is thick enough and not reflective. The crucial test is that the material must look passably in-character and not have a modern or reflective appearance. The thinner plain-coloured tents such as [https://www.boutiquecamping.com/tents-c1/classic-bell-tent-oxford-p1534 the 100gsm bell tent from Oxford Boutique] look too much like modern nylon tents to be used in the in-character area at events. If in any doubt at all, then please [mailto:clare@profounddecisions.co.uk email us] for advice.

	Many modern canvas tents have nylon guy ropes - these are acceptable at the event. Blue nylon guy ropes are ''less appropriate'' than other guys; if you are looking to improve that part of your kit then we recommend making your own guys from polyhemp.		Many modern canvas tents have nylon guy ropes - these are acceptable at the event. Blue nylon guy ropes are ''less appropriate'' than other guys; if you are looking to improve that part of your kit then we recommend making your own guys from polyhemp.

Hailmur: /* Further Reading */

2024-06-01T15:17:00Z

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	* [[Varushka look and feel\|Varushka]]		* [[Varushka look and feel\|Varushka]]
	* [[Wintermark look and feel\|Wintermark]]		* [[Wintermark look and feel\|Wintermark]]
	</div></div>		</div></div><br>
	<big>'''Costume How-Tos'''</big~~><br~~>		<big>'''Costume How-Tos'''</big>
	<div style="width: 1000px">		<div style="width: 1000px">
	{{div col\|colwidth=30em}}		{{div col\|colwidth=30em}}

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:08, 20 April 2025
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	* '''All costume that meets our minimum standards but is not part of your nation's look and feel guide is ''less appropriate'''''		* '''All costume that meets our minimum standards but is not part of your nation's look and feel guide is ''less appropriate'''''
	* '''This includes costume that is a part of another nation's look and feel guide rather than your own'''		* '''This includes costume that is a part of another nation's look and feel guide rather than your own'''
			* '''Magical weapons made of flames, ice, bone, crystal, glass etc are less appropriate in Empire unless it is a unique magical item'''
	* '''Don't draw attention to less appropriate costume in play'''		* '''Don't draw attention to less appropriate costume in play'''
	Costume that is ''less appropriate'' is fine to use in play. Creating a costume is always a compromise as time and money are limited. It is entirely sensible to use an existing garment or prop that you own that is ''less appropriate'' if doing so allows you to focus your efforts on improving other parts of your costume. We encourage everyone to get the ''ideal'' look for their character when they are creating or buying new costume, but you are welcome to use pieces that you already own until you are [[#Continuous Improvement\|ready to replace them with something better]].		Costume that is ''less appropriate'' is fine to use in play. Creating a costume is always a compromise as time and money are limited. It is entirely sensible to use an existing garment or prop that you own that is ''less appropriate'' if doing so allows you to focus your efforts on improving other parts of your costume. We encourage everyone to get the ''ideal'' look for their character when they are creating or buying new costume, but you are welcome to use pieces that you already own until you are [[#Continuous Improvement\|ready to replace them with something better]].
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	In creating the look and feel guides for Empire, we were inspired by historical sources but also by modern fantasy films like ''Lord of the Rings'' and shows like ''Game of Thrones''. Many of the costumes from these modern productions are fantastic and fit well with some nations in Empire, but it's better to try and create an overall look that is original if you can rather than copying a well known figure exactly. Many of Cersei Lannister's outfits are fantastic inspiration for Dawnish costume, but the more you look like Cersei, the more it will remind other players of ''Game of Thrones'' rather than Empire, so it's better to aim for something new rather than try to emulate it exactly.		In creating the look and feel guides for Empire, we were inspired by historical sources but also by modern fantasy films like ''Lord of the Rings'' and shows like ''Game of Thrones''. Many of the costumes from these modern productions are fantastic and fit well with some nations in Empire, but it's better to try and create an overall look that is original if you can rather than copying a well known figure exactly. Many of Cersei Lannister's outfits are fantastic inspiration for Dawnish costume, but the more you look like Cersei, the more it will remind other players of ''Game of Thrones'' rather than Empire, so it's better to aim for something new rather than try to emulate it exactly.

			Empire is a magical setting, so subtle elements like glowing runes on weapons are fine, but a weapon that would need magic simply to function is not. Flaming swords or weapons made of ice, glass, crystal, bone or similar materials are incredibly rare in Empire, if they exist at all. Your character can't have a weapon made of such a material unless they have gained it in play, in which case it will have a ribbon on it to indicate its magical nature and its history. If that is the only weapon you have then it is fine to use it until you can replace it, provided you don't draw attention to it. These restrictions only apply to ''weapons'' - it's fine to have a sacrificial dagger that appears to be made out of bone as a ritual prop for example.

	Empire has its own unique [[runes]] instead of real world runic scripts like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Runes Futhark] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ogham Ogham]. You can still use costume that is marked with these runes but they are ''less appropriate'' than those without, and have no particular meaning in the Empire world. The game has its own [[Magical_tradition\|magical traditions]] embedded in the setting; this means that most occult or magical symbols from real world traditions likewise have no meaning in the game unless it is explicitly called out by the setting.		Empire has its own unique [[runes]] instead of real world runic scripts like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Runes Futhark] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ogham Ogham]. You can still use costume that is marked with these runes but they are ''less appropriate'' than those without, and have no particular meaning in the Empire world. The game has its own [[Magical_tradition\|magical traditions]] embedded in the setting; this means that most occult or magical symbols from real world traditions likewise have no meaning in the game unless it is explicitly called out by the setting.



	When you encounter costume that is ''less appropriate'' you should try to ignore it. Live-roleplaying games are full of compromises like this and the game works best when everyone avoids drawing attention to them. This means that you shouldn't make a piece of ''less appropriate'' costume a key part of your character's backstory or personality, or create an in-character rationale to justify why you have it. Making something an integral part of your character's story makes it harder for everyone else to ignore the compromise and it makes it harder for you to replace the item with something better when you're able to do so.		When you encounter costume that is ''less appropriate'' you should try to ignore it. Live-roleplaying games are full of compromises like this and the game works best when everyone avoids drawing attention to them. This means that you shouldn't make a piece of ''less appropriate'' costume a key part of your character's backstory or personality, or create an in-character rationale to justify why you have it. Making something an integral part of your character's story makes it harder for everyone else to ignore the compromise and it makes it harder for you to replace the item with something better when you're able to do so.
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=ShapedGarments.png\|align=right\|width=300\|caption=Bodices, jerkins and close-fitting garments are fine in Empire}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=ShapedGarments.png\|align=right\|width=300\|caption=Bodices, jerkins and close-fitting garments are fine in Empire}}

	===Inappropriate Costume===		===Inappropriate Costume===
	* '''Kit defined as ''inappropriate'' anywhere on the wiki cannot be used at Empire'''		* '''Kit defined as ''inappropriate'' anywhere on the wiki cannot be used at Empire'''