Start with what you own
Dark trousers or a long skirt, a white or cream shirt and boots make a perfect base. Add layers and accessories from there.
Costume Corner
Dress the Part
Never worn goggles in public? Splendid — everyone starts somewhere. Here's how to put together a steampunk look on any budget.
First-timer's guide
Eight tips for your first outfit
At Steampunk @ Altitude, everyone makes their own outfit and becomes a character — and the festival motto says it all: whatever works!
Goggles are the badge
Nothing says steampunk faster. Wear them on your hat, around your neck or pushed up on your forehead. Old welding or swimming goggles can be painted brass.
Hats make the character
Top hats, bowlers, pith helmets and little fascinators. Decorate with feathers, cogs, ribbon, or a tiny clock.
Waistcoats & corsets
A waistcoat instantly adds Victorian polish. Corsets, bustles, braces and leather belts with pouches complete the silhouette.
Brass, cogs & gadgets
Craft-store gears, old watch parts and copper pipe fittings glued to belts, hats or arm braces. Gold and bronze spray paint transforms plastic finds.
Op-shop treasure hunting
Charity shops are goldmines: lace blouses, velvet jackets, old leather bags, brooches and keys. Steampunk rewards creativity, not big budgets.
Dress for altitude
Nimmitabel sits about 1,100 m above sea level and May can be properly cold. Hide thermals under your outfit, and a greatcoat or cape is both period-perfect and practical.
Invent a persona
Time traveller? Airship captain? Tea-duelling champion? People love asking who you are and how you made your outfit — have a story ready.
Interactive
The Persona-Matic
Stuck for a character? Crank the handle on our patented Persona-Matic and let the machine decide who you'll be this May.
Persona-Matic Mk II
You areProfessor Ada Cogsworth
Professionairship navigator
Never withoutbrass goggles with seven lenses
Known tonever travel without biscuits
Packing list
Festival kit checklist
Tick things off as you pack — your progress is saved on this device.
