Costume Designer

Dolly Urnezis

Professor Libolt

Fashion 105

April 28, 2011

Duties Oversee entire costume production

Develop wardrobes, footwear, accessories and other fashion apparels to be used in theatre, film and television

Responsible for researching, designing, drawing and sewing costumes

Sketch costume designs and develop costume drafts and layouts

Study scripts and story lines to conceptualize the costume style

Find costume styles, fabrics, patterns and designs to go with the production

Work closely with directors, producers and costume design team

Find and purchase ready-made costumes

Manage costume budget

Supervise costume fittings and dress rehearsals

Oversee overall production schedules

Education College degree not required

A 2 year or 4 year degree in fashion or costume design is preferred and suggested

Broad knowledge on arts, fashion and general world history suggested

Bachelors or advanced degrees in fine arts, fashion, costume design, set design, or theatre design preferred

Relevant work and field experience suggested

Abilities Skilled in drawing, sewing,

tailoring and pattern making

Excellent research skills

Superb designing and dressmaking skills

Must have a good understanding of textiles, fabrics, accessories and latest fashion trends

Understands body types and is able to style appropriately

Able to meet deadlines and stay within budget

Personal Qualities Creative

Artistic

Detail oriented

Organized

Impeccable fashion sense

Excellent communication and people skills

Eye for detail, color and shape

Natural leader

Able to multitask

Salary Vary depending on experience

and expertise

Entry-Level Costume Designer: $500/ production

Experienced Costume Designer: $20,000/production

Top-Level Costume Designer: $150,000/production

New York pays the highest salary for costume designer positions

Location & Availability Largest and highest paid markets are

in New York and Los Angeles

Employment opportunities for costume designers are rising

Competitive employment atmosphere

Jobs opportunities in local theaters, schools and non-profit organizations are easier to get

Typical Career Path-Design Assistant, University/Regional Theatre > Costume Designer, University/Regional Theatre > Costume Designer, Broadway/Off-Broadway Productions > Costume Designer, Television and Film

References http://www.fashion-schools.org/costume-designer.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Costume_designer

http://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Costume_Designer/Salary

http://www.aact.org/people/costumedesigner.html

http://guidewhois.com/2010/12/costume-designer-job-description-education-training-requirements-career-salary-employment/