Normally I am a pretty sensible person- I don’t smoke, I don’t drink much, and I drive a very sensible car (a Toyota Prius). Like any sane human being, however, there are times when I simply have to let myself go a bit! For me, the best way of doing this, and having a great deal of fun in the process, is by dressing up in costume. I just love the feeling of wearing an outfit, and being transformed into someone else. I guess it must be how actors feel when they get really immersed in a role! It takes me away from the mundane nature of my everyday life, and for just one evening I become someone totally different!
Over the last 3 years I have dressed up for more than 7 different parties. I have portrayed characters as divers as Jane Eyre, Suzi Quattro, Little Red Riding Hood, and even a female version of Elvis Presley! But of all the characters that I have ‘played’ the one that is closest to my heart is Joan of Arc. I find her story so fascinating, and I so admire her bravery, courageousness and single mindedness. In may ways she was one of the first ever feminists, and she has become a very powerful symbol of female power. It’s so sad that she was burnt at the stake by the french institutions of the times!
I bought my Joan of Arc outfit online, as this offered the best combination of value for money and choice. The costume looked totally amazing on me! I added an authentic looking sword, and even an authentic looking Joan of Arc wig! What I really loved about the costume though was the fact that it was really original. I’ve yet to see another person at a fancy dress party dressed as Joan of Arc, and all my friends commented on what a great choice it was!