Costume On:
An online conference for historical costuming
-FAQ/INFO-
WHAT IS THIS?
Hello! Costume On is an online costume convention, a weekend of seminars and workshops- all online! Due to closures and restrictions, we welcome you to join us in a place where we can unite and learn while being safe. :)
Costume On is held in 'rooms' using webconference software on a listed schedule. Demos are broadcast using webcams, attendees do not need a webcam to attend. The primary focus is historical costume, some supplementary topics such as accessories and styling are also included.
In the future, Costume On will keep on as a biannual event (spring & fall), and eventually classes will be both in-person and simultaneously broadcast. It's fantastic to attend in person, but if travel plans aren't an option you could still join us.
HOW DO I ATTEND THE CLASSES?
Online! At home, on your computer/internet connection. The classes will use videoconferencing software (Zoom) that is free for you to use. It may require a download of the software- it is free, and simply a tool so that you can attend the class.
While it is very helpful for the teacher to see you and what you are doing, a webcam is not necessary for you to attend the class. You can wear pjs, we don't judge. :)
HOW DO I SIGN UP?
Per class. Each class listing on the CLASSES PAGE will have a button to click that will link to a registration box. A small registration fee per class will be charged, and your selection forwarded on to the teacher who will respond with attendance info, how to pay and list of required materials, if any. There is no general shopping cart on this site, it is a hub to host individual teachers.
The registration fee goes directly to 1886, the class fee is paid directly to the teacher. Each teacher has their own policies/attendance/wait lists/accounts for payment, and I prefer that they are paid directly. More convenient overall, and no filter for them- they receive their $ immediately and no delay in receiving student info.
Registrations will be pre-screened this year to ensure a safe space for both students and teachers- the process may take a little longer this time, please be patient and know it is due to quality control.
*Please check the schedule and note class times/dates so that your choices do not overlap*
WHEN WILL THE CLASS SCHEDULE BE POSTED?
WITH DATES/TIMES?
When registration opens, please check the CLASS SCHEDULE page for times/time zones/daily classes. You can register for the classes on the CLASSES page.
IS THIS ONE FEE FOR ALL OR PER CLASS?
Per class. Each class listing will have a button to click that opens a registration form. That form emails 1886 who will alert the teacher, who will then respond regarding payment, confirmation or wait list status and required materials.
HOW DO I PAY?
When you register, a small fee of a few dollars will be charged for each class you choose. This fee goes to 1886 and covers some of the website costs, the months of work I spend putting the event together, the many hours spent updating the website/class schedules, and a small stipend treat for the admins who sit in to manage the classes for quality control.
The registration fee is a new add, but my goal is to keep classes affordable and a standardized fee structure that benefits everyone. Whether you are on a small budget or treating yourself, classes are affordably priced across the board with a range to choose from.
Once your registration is submitted, after a short delay you will then be contacted by the teachers for your classes, and each teacher will give instructions on how to pay for their class, their policies and the forms of payment they accept. You will then pay the teacher directly for their class.
WHAT WILL THE CLASSES COVER?
Costume, accessories and other period style topics related to creating a look, with a focus on historical fashion. Primarily 18th century through 1900s, though any historical era is fair game. Costume On also hosts classes on elements of living history, inclusivity and body positivity as they relate to historical costuming.
ARE THESE RECORDED VIDEOS OR LIVE?
Live real-time classes and lectures, so that students can interact with the teachers and ask questions. A few classes will partly be a screenshare of a prepared presentation, but the teacher is live and available for q & a/discussion and to show examples from their collection and additional images.
We're all at home muddling through with equipment on hand, that is the goal and we'll try to make it possible. :)
HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO GET CLASS SUPPLIES
IF I AM QUARANTINED?
I have asked the teachers to do projects/supply lists that take into account both substitutions and items people will likely have on hand.
When you register, supply lists will be sent, key/special order supply lists will be posted on the CLASSES page so you can review before registering. Everyone is welcome to take the classes whether you have the supplies or not, with the understanding that if you do not have adequate substitutions it may be more of a demo.
**I do not want anyone to feel that they have to leave their house to go out and shop for this.**
If you wish to attend a class but are lacking in crucial supplies and unable to order something, please contact the teacher and we will try to come up with a happy solution.
WHO ARE THE TEACHERS?
Come see for yourself on the TEACHERS PAGE! Very talented people skilled in various eras and techniques who have spent years honing their craft.
Attending Costume On directly supports these independent artists. :)