SKIRT or DRESS:  

• Length should be mid to lower calf. Short skirts do not fit the pioneer style, and skirts that are too long can make walking difficult. Choose solid colors or small prints. Pioneers wore bright colors, but avoid loud, modern patterns. Skirts can be made from simple sewing patterns. 

SHIRT/BLOUSE:

• Sleeves should be elbow length to long sleeve for sun protection and an authentic pioneer look. Look for full-sleeve cotton blouses with button fronts and crew necks, high collars, or Peter Pan collars. Basic button-up shirts can be easily altered to look more authentic. 

APRON:

• An apron protects your outfit, adds to the authentic look, and is handy for carrying small items. Make sure it has large pockets! Aprons are hard to find at thrift stores, so you will probably need to buy or sew one. 

BLOOMERS OR CAPRIS 

• Wear bloomers or modest shorts or capris under your skirt for modesty and to help prevent chafing. Any light, loose-fitting capris or long shorts will work. For a more authentic look, you can cut off scrub pants or cotton pajama pants and sew lace on the bottom. 

BONNET

• Protecting your head and face from the sun is important! A bonnet with a flap or ruffle at the back offers the best protection for your neck. Like aprons, bonnets are hard to find secondhand, so you may need to buy or make one. A wide-brim straw hat also works.

SHAWL (optional): 

• A shawl is optional, but it can be a nice addition for warmth or style.

SATCHEL OR SHOULDER BAG: 

• Bring a simple bag large enough to carry your journal and a water bottle.

PANTS (NO JEANS):

• Choose cotton or lightweight khaki pants. Avoid polyester pants—they are too hot! For an authentic pioneer look, use a piece of rope as a belt or wear suspenders. No jeans, camouflage pants, or shorts.

SHIRT:  

• Wear a cotton, button-up shirt. Solid colors, plaids, or small prints work best. Pioneers did wear bright colors, but avoid loud or modern prints. You can easily make a regular shirt look more authentic with a few simple sewing adjustments. No T-shirts.

HAT:

• A wide-brimmed hat is important to protect your face and neck from the sun. A cowboy hat works well too. Make sure your hat has a neck strap to keep it secure in the wind. No baseball caps or army hats.

VEST (optional): 

• A vest is optional but adds to the pioneer look. Sewing your own can be a fun project! 

 PAIR OF SUSPENDERS (optional):  

• Suspenders are another optional item, but they really complete the outfit. Just make sure they work with the pants you are wearing.

SATCHEL OR SHOULDER BAG:

• Bring a simple bag big enough to carry your journal and a water bottle.