What Goes Into Becoming a Costume Designer?

Costume designers lend authenticity and elegance to movies.

Costume designers research and design the costumes worn in movies, plays, TV programs and concerts. Working closely with the producer and director, costume designers play an important part in the overall look of a production. Becoming a costume designer requires a number of specialized skills as well as education and experience.

Education

Holding a college degree in costume design or fashion design theater is definitely a plus but is not mandatory. Courses in sewing, art history and world history are also helpful.

Experience

Experience in the design and creation of clothing and/or clothing accessories can be helpful. Costume work in college or community theater productions is a plus.

Personal Attributes

Creativity, the ability to handle the stress of deadlines and a willingness to collaborate with others are important personal characteristics in a costume designer.

Employment Outlook

Opportunities for costume designers depend on the state of the entertainment business in general. Though costume designers generally earn a good living, they are always subject to the ups and downs of the industry.

Salary

Entry-level pay for a costume designer is around $500 per production. An experienced designer makes about $20,000 per production. In-demand costume designers can make $150,000 or more.

References

• Fashion Schools: Costume Designer
• Prospects: Costume Designer Job Description and Activities