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The pedes of Comitatus are often complemented by the
public and by other groups on really “looking the part”. Many members really
look like early 5th century Romans. It is probably impossible for
most of us to adopt the starved look of Fortunatus, the weather beaten and
aged look of Demetrius, the confused look of Salvianus or the downright sexy
look of Victor. But a few simple changes to uniform can go along way.
- Arm
rings would be worn generally on the right arm by men, especially Germanic
recruits. Wearing an arm ring on the left arm is very very feminine. The
modern Praesidiensis is an equal opportunities employer, but the
original may not have been.
- Cloaks
would be worn the vast majority of the time, even in hot climates. These
do not need to be large, heavy or lined. Light cloaks, even made of
linen would be worn in the same way as we put on a light jacket. They
are pinned at the right shoulder by a military crossbow brooch. These
are great objects, synonymous with the wide military belts, which
soldiers would wear. Let your comrades admire your brooches.
- There
is no need to wear trousers. Simple rectangular leg wraps tied at the
ankle and just below the knee are comfortable, cheap and practical. You
can make them from the off-cuts produced by cutting out a tunic. You can even wear them over trousers
if you wish.
- Simple
pillbox hats, worn well above the ear make a good helmet liner, sun hat,
head warmer, handkerchief or whatever else you feel like.
- Solid
clavi and orbiculi are normal and seen as a modern convention. But
patterned clavi and orbiculi look much much much better.
Looking “the part” can give you the confidence to be
convincing in the whole of your performance. Good luck.
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