Costume Design

A costume designer is responsible for the overall look of the clothes and costumes in theatre productions.

As well as researching and designing costumes, they lead a team that may include a design assistant, wardrobe staff and costume/wig makers.

On a large production, they design the concept for the costumes, but delegate practical work to others in the costume department.

Costume designers: study the script; discuss ideas with the production designer, director, and make-up, set and lighting designers; create costume ideas to fit the production’s design concept and budget; research suitable costume styles, fabrics and designs; sketch costume designs; give instructions to costume makers, who would turn your sketches into wearable garments.

On smaller productions, they also carry out some of the practical tasks, such as: managing the wardrobe budget; buying or hiring outfits; fitting, altering and adapting costumes; cleaning, ironing and mending; making sure that wardrobe items are available at the right time; managing continuity of costumes.

Earnings in theatre can start at around £18,000 to £28,000 a year.

Established designers may earn much more. Earnings in film and TV are usually higher, although you may need to work for low pay at the start of your career.

Freelance rates can vary widely, as you could negotiate fees based on the type of production and your own track record.

Contact BECTU or Equity for information on minimum pay guidelines.

To become a costume designer you will need a high level of design skill and creative vision, as well as practical sewing skills.

In practice, many costume designers have a BTEC HND, degree or postgraduate qualification in costume design, fashion, theatre design or performing arts (production). To find a suitable course, use the course search on this site and check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.

Alternatively, you could start as a wardrobe assistant or costume maker and work your way up to designer as you build experience and contacts in the industry.  

Whatever your qualifications, you should find practical work experience and build a good portfolio or 'showreel' DVD of your design work to show to potential employers.

You can get relevant experience through student theatre and film productions, amateur theatre, working as a costume ‘daily’ (a temporary helper) on TV or film sets, casual wardrobe work in theatres and working for a theatrical costume hire company.