Many will say that steampunk is all about cool looking gadgets modified with gears, steam powered gauges and motors, and other will tell you that it's an attitude and lifestyle for those who wish to relive the height of the Victorian era, but the truth is that steampunk is about the couture.

Whether a steampunk costume is appropriate for a ride on a dirigible, or a steampunk pirate costume for some exploits on the high seas battling Captain Nemo, the look is the key to authenticity. From goggles to leather flight caps and down to lace up leather boots, the steampunk costume accessories are as important as the corsets, newsboys hats and riding coats.

If you are choosing steampunk Victorian costume for dress up fun or if you are serious about adopting an old world lifestyle, you must consider the character you want to portray. You can choose to be an Aeronaut, a Scientist, a Madame or even an Autoist. It's simply about choosing the right clothes for the persona. Leather, stiff fabrics, jackets, ties, skirts and Victorian era blouses should be used to build the look, pay special attention to the extras including steampunk derby hats, glasses, steampunk pocket watch, gloves and buckles. Finally, develop your character; create a role to play and decide how that person lives, what they do and what kind of gear they use. Next, learn the lingo. Steampunks attempt to recreate an old world aire in their language speaking with artifact words that are familiar yet still foreign to the ear.

So if you are planning fashion fun, here are the basics: A Mens Steam Punk Costume can include tan pocketless trousers that roll up on the calf, a plain white shirt with a brown vest, white or dark coloured stockings with heavy brown leather shoes, a bow tie, a bowler style hat and a riding coat. Accessories should include Steampunk goggles, small metal framed glasses or a monocle and a highly stylized and multi-use belt buckle. Don't forget to pack that strange looking steam powered rocket gun. For the Ladies Steampunk Costume - a long flowing brown or dark colored skirt wrapped in layers of overlapping fabric. Brown lace up leather steampunk shoes or boots over white or tan stockings. A revealing white blouse, or a blouse closed to the neck with a Victorian cameo necklace but either blouse accented with a strap and buckle corset. Elbow length gloves and a tall hat with feathers and lace which will set off the outfit perfectly. Shoulder bags and purses are out of the question, our ladies of the victorian era carried parasols and clutches.

Want to dress the part, to experience life in the futuristic past? Then check out the steampunk dress up reality at www.fashionforfun.com.au and don't forget to park your dirigible out back.