A gambeson is a good start, kidex is great for protection too. Also, in the steel fighting community people often have motorcycle protective gear under their gambesons. It is sleek and well hidden but definitely protects well. I personally use crash pads and those soft football pad things under my armor (steel combat armor, very new to lighstaber combat). Hands and such can be protected by leather or plastic gauntlets. You can make those look in universe very simple.
Thanks for the tips. I need to get through my wedding first with the Gambeson, since thatll be my only one for some time.
I just need to find body armor to go under/over it that isnt bad for bigger guys like myself, which is where i've struggled finding anything for the body.