Great Advice When Pursuing A Career In Costume Design

By Patricia Butler


Watching movies and television shows can be very inspiring, especially if you love the clothes that the characters are wearing. Fashioning costumes for media and entertainment is a creative yet demanding job that requires both skill and determination. If you have these qualities in spades as well as a keen eye for style, then look to the advice below guide you on your future calling as a costume designer.

Sense of style. Whether you are self taught or professionally trained, you should at least have a comprehensive knowledge about clothing. You have to know what works for the body and know if there are alternatives to Elizabethan collar for contemporary films. Additionally, knowing how to actually create garments by hand is a considerable advantage.

Be proactive. You will never go anywhere inside the industry unless you put yourself out there. Networking is essential, so do not be afraid to approach a film production and ask to be an assistant or an apprentice under the head costumer or other high ranking wardrobe department supervisors. These people will potentially open doors for you if you do a good job.

Stiff upper lip. Behind the glitz and the glamor of the Hollywood scene lies a whole other world that might discourage lesser mortals wanting to break into the business. For most people, their dreams are often crushed by multiple rejections and other letdowns. It is advised that you should be emotionally and mentally strong when faced with such rough patches.

Collaboration is key. Understand that however talented you may be in fashioning the most amazing garments, you still have certain limitations. Which is why it is imperative that you should be a team player since it requires a lot of people to dress actors in front of the camera. Working with others who share the same goals as you do will ultimately be beneficial to everyone involved.

Quick thinking. Being handed with the short end of a stick can be frustrating, but this is not a reason to give up. In times when doing your job is hindered by financial constraints, this is where your ingenuity should kick in. The most resourceful of costume designers know the tricks to create perfect quality with limited quantities.

The big difference. What you need to understand is that designing for a film or TV production is very different from designing fashion intended for commercial retail. While it is good that you possess a keen eye for real world style trends, this often does not apply in a fictional setting. Be mindful of this deviation since outfits for movies and TV shows are not meant to be worn in everyday life.

Remain humble. Above all, you must never show any signs of ego when entering this fast paced business. In a world where everyone has big personalities, you are likely to stand out more if your demeanor is more down to earth and not abrasive. And the bottom line, they will respect you and your work if you show them your good side.

Crafting exquisite garments for talented actors can be very satisfying and this is a dream you should sustain. By taking note of these tips featured above, you will be guided in the right direction. Be confident and never stop believing.




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