I bought this to change things up with my garb for the RenFest this year. I wanted something a little more flashy, but not over the top garish. I wanted something nice, but not stupidly expensive (I'm only going to wear it once or twice a year, can't justify $$$). This costume fit the bill and more, more, more. Ok, the third time that I used it the zipper did break---on the bag that it came in!!! The costume itself seems hella sturdy other than some random loose threads. The biggest weak point does seem to be the zipper on the back of the shirt, but it held up very well all day long. I wouldn't want to run from a dragon in it, but the costume seems like it will stand up too a good bit of wining and wrenching. Word about what you get. Three things: a floppy hat, a big shirt, and a furry lined cape. Keep in mind I ordered size 2X. The hat fit a bit snug (I wear a hat size 7.5 to 8) and it is not elastic or adjustable--but it stayed on all day. The cape is big, I wrapped it around my girlfriend and me as we watched falcons eat mice, but it was not unwieldy at all. I'm 5'8" and the cape came to just below my knees. The cape is really more of a big jacket, as it includes the belows style sleeves that go to the elbows. My one gripe about the cape--the faux fur lining is not tacked down to the cape along its outer margins so it sometimes flips inside out and/or stands up (look at the left shoulder in my picture). Not a game changer--I'll probably tack it down with needle and thread for next year. The shirt is big. I'm big (ok, fat at about 230#, chest size 48-50) and the shirt fit loose. The shirt comes down to my knees (again, I'm 5'8"). It is mostly red velvet with a front that matches the cape sleeves and lacey wrists. The neck is frilly (choker style) and studded with "gemstones" (so is the hat band). The shirt has a half length zipper in the back. The shirt was very comfortable, even in the neck. It did not hinder my movements. For me, the costume ran big, but it did not at all feel like it was "too big." Actually, I think it would probably fit good on a smaller person too. The costume is warm, but not really hot. The shirt does not bunch around the waist so the airflow is good. The temperature was about 75° F and the only time I felt hot was one time while sitting right in the sun. I would not wear it at the height of summer, but it seems great for fall and spring. I think it would have enough room for a sweater or light jacket to be worn under it. I think that the costume is versatile. I did not try this, but I think that the shirt will work separate from the cape. The zipper on the back is really small, though exposed. It sort of looks like something that an extra from the dance scene in "Knight's Tale" would wear. (No, it does not have toggles). Lastly, biggest thing, it was very easy to put on and let me wear normal pants (with pockets!!!). I drove to the RenFest in a t-shirt and cargo pants (ok, with felt calf high boots too). When I parked I pulled on the shirt, the cape, the hat and was ready to go. Between the length of the shirt and my boots the black pants I wore were barely visible, even the cargo pockets. However, reaching my pockets was as easy as pie. (No, I did not have any pie in my pockets). I'm loving this costume. Yes, yes people did make me out to be H the 8, but only a few commented and overall the compliments flowed like mead from an open keg. I would not recommend this to a friend...I don't want them dressing like me, but I would encourage some strangers to buy it.
