What to wear under your fastelavn costume

Short answer: Under a costume for fastelavn you need clothes that are soft, do not add bulk and do not chafe when you move and dance. Choose a layer that suits the costume's material and how warm or cold the hall is.

Start by thinking about the costume

Costumes are often made of stiff, synthetic fabric that lets no air through and can scratch the skin. What you wear closest to the body therefore has to do the work of being soft and comfortable. Look first at the costume's shape and length, so you know how much may show through or must be hidden.

A layer that does not add bulk

Under tight costumes it matters that underwear does not form edges or folds. Choose smooth shapes without coarse seams, and avoid layers that bunch up under the fabric. You get a neater look and do not feel it with every movement. See the options among bamboo underwear for women.

A bra under a snug costume

If the costume is snug across the chest, the bra should lie smooth and not press through the fabric. Choose a bra without underwire or with soft edges if the costume is thin. You can see what exists among bamboo bras, and you should be able to lift your arms without the straps slipping down.

If the costume is warm

At fastelavn there are often many people in one place, and a costume can get very warm. Choose a thin, breathable layer next to the skin, so you are not soaked in sweat after half an hour. It is better to have enough air than to pile on too many layers.

If the costume is cold

If you are outdoors or the hall is cold, you need an extra layer under the costume. A long sleeve T-shirt or a soft top holds the warmth without adding bulk. See the choice among bamboo T-shirts for women, and pick a fit that lies calmly under the costume.

Colours that do not show through

Light costumes, especially in thin fabric, can let the colour of underwear show through. Choose a shade close to your skin if the costume is light, and a dark shade if the costume is dark. Try the costume on with the underwear you plan to use, and look in the mirror in good light.

Movement and comfort all evening

You may dance, sit down, climb stairs or bend over while wearing the costume. So try moving at home first. Underwear should stay in place and not ride up or slide down. Choose a size that sits securely, so you can think about the party instead of the clothes.

When the party is over

Costumes can be hard to wash, so let your underwear take up the sweat. Wash it according to the care label, usually at a low temperature, and let it dry fully before you put it away. Hang the costume to air so the smell of the day does not set in, and check whether it can be washed at all.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need special underwear under a costume?

Not necessarily, but choose something soft, smooth and without coarse seams. Think about the costume's fabric and fit, and try everything on at home, so you know nothing chafes or shows through.

How do I avoid freezing in a costume?

Add a thin layer next to the skin, for example a long sleeve top that does not add bulk under the costume. Try it out so you can move freely, and bring a coat or a blanket if you are going outside.

What do I do if the costume itches?

Put a soft layer between the costume and your skin. It can be a T-shirt or a top that covers the places where the fabric rubs, and that you can take off when you get home.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.