Costumes have been around in hundreds of cultures for thousands of years. Looking at different costumes from different time periods gives us a look at the rich and diverse cultural history we have in the world. In Florence during the Renaissance a single court costume for festivals and ceremonies could cost as much as a large house. Today we still enjoy dressing in costumes. Whether we are going to a party, celebrating a holiday, or performing in theater costumes give us a chance to play and have fun.