New to the Shadowknight!!

[Aztefano]

maybe avoid bronze (even though a full plate look is cool) as it eats up a lot of your carrying weight, its just one or two AC more per item but you'd only be able to carry half the loot before you need to go sell.

[DrKvothe]

Dark mailed gauntlets are very nice for that 50 mana, and are quite cheap.

I wouldn't worry too much about an AC set. you'll be fine in whatever cloth/leather you can find. If you get a chance to hit a cash camp as you level, like the LFay bandits or OoT sisters, maybe try to pick up cheaper nice items like treeweave or skull-shaped barbarute.

[Veleria]

2x 5/55 rings 500p
Nathsar Greatsword 150
Full suit of banded 90

This will last you till 20 and a bit beyond. once you hit 20 you might want a better weapon. but the Nathsar is still adequate. As a large race you wont need a shield for a long time. Its still a good idea to pick one up but its not urgent.