Costume Designer
Useful Links
https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/how-to-get-started-in-costume-design-70464/
https://www.theatredesign.org.uk/
https://costumesociety.org.uk/
https://www.screenskills.com/job-profiles/browse/film-and-tv-drama/craft/costume-trainee/
Job profiles
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/costume-designer
https://www.screenskills.com/job-profiles/browse/unscripted-tv/craft/costume-designer-unscripted-tv/
What does a costume designer do ?
Costume designers are responsible for the overall look of the clothes and costumes in theatre, film or television productions.
how to become
You can get into this job through:
a university course
a college course
an apprenticeship
working towards this role
College
You can get practical skills like pattern cutting, sewing and dressmaking by completing a college qualification.
You could do a Level 2 Certificate or level 3 in Fashion and Textiles and choose tailoring, sewing or textiles as a specialism.
Alternatively, you could do a Level 2 or 3 Certificate in Theatre Support - Costume and Wardrobe.
University
You can do a higher national diploma, degree or postgraduate qualification in:
costume design
fashion
theatre design
performing arts (production)
Apprenticeship
To become a costume designer, you could also do the:
Costume Performance Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
Fashion Studio Assistant Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
Bespoke Tailor and Cutter Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship
Employment
You could get into costume design by working for a company who provides costumes for stage and screen.
Some of the larger companies offer work experience and internship opportunities.
You could try to get a job as a costume assistant, then train more on the job to move into design work.
Volunteering
Experience in the theatre, film or costume industry is highly valued by employers and volunteering is a great way to improve your skills. It's also a good way to meet people and build up your network of contacts.
You could get relevant experience through:
student theatre and film productions
amateur theatre
working as a costume 'daily' or temporary helper on TV or film sets
casual wardrobe work in theatres
working for a theatrical costume hire company