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Costume, commonly known as Wardrobe, is a vital and dynamic area of school productions, community and professional theatre, playing an essential role in bringing characters to life on the stage. This domain bridges creativity and practical craftsmanship, requiring a blend of imagination, historical knowledge, and technical skill.
Costume designers are tasked with interpreting a script to create attire that reflects the personality, social status, and emotional journey of the characters while also remaining true to the historical or stylistic context of the production, as envisioned by the director. Their designs are not merely clothes; they are visual narratives that contribute to the storytelling, enhancing the audience’s understanding and appreciation of the performance.
The process of costume construction brings these designs from concept to reality. It involves a range of skilled artisans and technicians, including tailors, seamstresses, milliners, and others, each contributing their expertise to the meticulous creation of each costume piece.
The construction process often begins with extensive research into historical fashion, fabric types, and construction techniques, followed by pattern making, fabric cutting, sewing, and fitting. This collaborative effort ensures that the costumes not only look authentic and visually striking but are also functional and durable enough to withstand the rigours of repeated performances.
DESIGN ELEMENTS
Accessory: An item that is worn with a costume but is not part of the main outfit, such as jewellery, belts, hats, or scarves, used to enhance the overall look.
Aiguillette: Ornamental braided cord most often worn on uniforms, livery, and ceremonial garments.
Argyle: A pattern of diamond-shaped areas on a solid background, commonly used in knitwear.
Basket Weave: A textile weave that resembles a woven basket, characterized by a checkerboard pattern.
Bateau Neckline: A wide, high, straight neckline that runs horizontally, front and back, almost to the shoulder points, across the collarbone.
Bias: The diagonal direction on a fabric that is at a 45-degree angle to the weave.
Bias Tape: A narrow strip of fabric, cut on the bias, used for binding and finishing edges.
Boning: Thin strips of material, traditionally made from whalebone, now often plastic, used to stiffen garments.
Box Pleat: A pleat that is wider and flatter than a regular pleat, resembling a rectangle when viewed from the top.
Brocade: A rich, decorative fabric with a raised pattern, often with gold or silver threads.
Bust Dart: A tapered tuck used to shape a garment around the wearer’s bust.
Cable Knit: A style of knitting in which textures of crossing layers are achieved, resembling a cable pattern.
Calico: A plain-woven textile made from unbleached, and often not fully processed, cotton.
Canvas Interfacing: A sturdy interfacing used in tailoring to give structure to garments.
Canvas Work: A type of embroidery in which stitches are sewn through a fabric mesh to create a dense pattern that completely covers the foundation fabric.
Cartridge Pleating: A type of gathering that creates a series of cylindrical folds, often used in historical skirts.
Character Analysis: Understanding the background, personality, and evolution of each character to inform costume design choices.
Conceptualisation: The initial stage where designers develop the overall vision and style for the costumes based on the script, director’s vision, and historical research.
Cincher: A type of belt or undergarment worn to cinch the waist.
Colour Theory: The study of colour and its impact on design, helping costume designers choose palettes that support the story and characters.
Croquis: A quick sketch of a fashion figure, typically used in costume and fashion design to plan out clothing designs.
Drapery: Cloth arranged gracefully in loose folds.
Elastic Shirring: Gathering fabric using elastic thread to create a stretchy, ruffled effect.
Epaulette: A decorative shoulder adornment often used in military and other uniforms.
Eyelet: A small hole or perforation, usually finished with stitching or a metal ring, used for lacing or decoration.
Filigree: Delicate ornamental work of fine silver, gold, or other metal wires.
French Cuff: A double-length cuff folded back on itself and fastened with cufflinks.
Frogging: An ornamental braiding for fastening the front of a garment, consisting of a button and a loop through which it passes.
Herringbone: A distinctive V-shaped weaving pattern usually found in tweed and wool fabrics.
Illusion Neckline: A sheer fabric extending from the bust to the collar, creating a ‘barely there’ look.
Interactive Costuming: Incorporating elements that actors can interact with, like removable layers or pieces that contribute to the storytelling.
Kerchief: A piece of fabric tied around the head or neck for protective or decorative purposes.
Lining: An inner layer of fabric that provides a neat finish and conceals seams.
Mandarin Collar: A small, close-fitting upright collar.
Mandarin Sleeve: A style of sleeve that is narrow and close-fitting, often seen in Asian-influenced fashion.
Monogram: A motif of two or more letters, typically a person’s initials, used as an identifying mark.
Mood Board: A visual presentation created by designers comprising images, materials, and color palettes to convey the mood, style, and feel of the costumes.
Muff: A cylindrical tube of fabric, usually fur or wool, for keeping the hands warm.
Non-Traditional Materials: Experimenting with unconventional materials like plastics, metals, or found objects for avant-garde or conceptual costumes.
Notch Collar: A lapel on a jacket or coat that creates a step effect at the joining of the collar.
Paisley: A distinctive intricate pattern of curved, feather-shaped figures based on an Indian design.
Panama: A basic type of basketweave used in traditional weaving.
Passementerie: Decorative trimming such as tassels, braid, and fringing.
Passepoil: French term for piping, a narrow tube of fabric used to trim edges.
Picot: An edging of small loops on lace or ribbon.
Pleat: A fold in the fabric, often used for decorative purposes or to give more room.
Puff Sleeve: A voluminous sleeve design, gathered at the shoulder and cuff to create a puffy effect.
Raw Edge: The unfinished, unsewn edge of a fabric that has not been encased or hemmed.
Reticella: A form of lacework that involves removing threads from a woven background and then filling the gaps with embroidery.
Reticule: A small purse or bag, typically made of fabric.
Ruche: Gathering a strip of fabric to create decorative frills or ruffles.
Ruff/Ruffle: A strip of fabric, lace, or ribbon, tightly gathered or pleated on one edge and applied to a garment, typically at the collar, wrist, or border.
Russian Braid: A decorative trim used to embellish garments, consisting of a flat, narrow, tubular braid.
Sailor Collar: A collar with a square back and a V-shaped front, resembling the collar used in naval uniforms.
Scale Model: A miniature version of a costume used to visualize how it will look and function, often used in complex or large-scale productions.
Scalloped Edge: A series of curved projections along the edge of a fabric.
Selvage: The self-finished edge of fabric, tightly woven to prevent unravelling.
Sequin: A small, shiny disk sewn as one of many onto clothing for decoration.
Shank Button: A button with a loop on the back, used for thicker fabrics where a traditional flat button would not sit well.
Shirred Elastic: Multiple rows of gathered fabric, usually held with elastic thread to create a stretchy, ruffled effect.
Silhouette: The overall line or shape of a garment.
Special Effects Costumes: Designing costumes that incorporate special effects, such as LED lighting, animatronics, or mechanisms for quick changes.
Stay Stitching: A line of stitching just inside the seam line to prevent stretching or distortion.
Train: An extra length of fabric that extends from the back of a garment, trailing on the ground.
Trimming: Decorative detail added to a costume to enhance its appearance, such as lace, ribbons, beads, embroidery, or fringes.
Tulle: A lightweight, very fine, stiff netting often used for veils or gowns.
Variegated Thread: Thread that changes color along its length, used for decorative embroidery.
Wale: The raised ridges seen in corduroy fabric.
Wearable Art: Creating costumes that function as standalone pieces of art, often for conceptual or experimental productions.
Welt Pocket: A pocket set into the garment with a welted edge, which is a piece of fabric that lines the lip of the pocket.
Welt Seam: A type of seam in which the seam allowances are enclosed within a folded piece of fabric.
Whipcord: A strong worsted or cotton fabric with a diagonal cord or rib.
Whipstitch: A simple sewing stitch that passes over an edge of one fabric for hemming or attaching pieces.
Yardage: The amount of fabric required to make a garment or to complete a project.
Zardozi: A type of heavy and elaborate metal embroidery on a silk, satin, or velvet fabric base.
CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES
Ageing: Technique used to make costumes look worn, old, or distressed, as required by the script or director’s vision.
Airbrushing: A painting technique using a small, air-operated tool that sprays various media including ink and dye.
Appliqué: A decorative technique where fabric shapes are cut and sewn onto a larger piece of fabric.
Backstitch: A strong hand stitching technique used for joining seams securely in garment construction.
Basting Stitch: A temporary, loose stitch used to hold pieces of fabric together before final stitching.
Batik: A method of producing colored designs on textiles by dyeing them, having first applied wax to the parts to be left undyed.
Bias Cut: Cutting fabric at a 45-degree angle to its weave, allowing more stretch and draping elegantly.
Breaking Down: Technique used to make costumes look worn, old, or distressed, as required by the script or director’s vision.
Broderie Anglaise: A whitework needlework technique featuring patterns composed of round or oval holes cut out of the fabric, with stitching around the edges.
Burnout: A fabric technique where a mixed-fibre material undergoes a chemical process to dissolve one fibre type, creating a semi-transparent pattern against more solidly woven fabric.
Canvas Work: A type of embroidery in which stitches are sewn through a fabric mesh to create a dense pattern that completely covers the foundation fabric.
Chain Stitch: A sewing and embroidery technique in which a series of looped stitches form a chain-like pattern.
Construction: The process of creating costumes from the designs, involving sewing, fitting, and fabricating.
Cording: A decorative element where cord is used to outline a garment detail.
Darning: A sewing technique for repairing holes or worn areas in fabric using needle and thread alone.
Distressing: Techniques used to make costumes look aged, worn, or dirty to suit the character or setting.
Draping: A method of costume construction where fabric is pinned and arranged on a dress form to create the structure of a garment.
Dye: The process of changing the colour of fabric using special coloring solutions.
Elastic Shirring: Gathering fabric using elastic thread to create a stretchy, ruffled effect.
Embellishment: Adding decorative elements like embroidery, beading, lace, or appliqué to enhance the costume’s visual impact.
Embroidery Floss: A thread specifically designed for hand embroidery work.
Eyelet Embroidery: A decorative technique involving cutting holes in fabric and finishing the holes with stitching.
Fabric Selection: Choosing appropriate fabrics based on the character, period, and practical needs such as movement and durability.
Faggoting: A technique of joining two pieces of fabric with an open stitch, often creating a decorative lattice effect.
French Seam: A seam finishing method that encases the raw edges of fabric within the seam itself.
Frogging: An ornamental braiding for fastening the front of a garment, consisting of a button and a loop through which it passes.
Gather: A technique where the fabric is drawn together, resulting in ruffles or pleats.
Hand Stitching: Method of constructing costumes.
Ikat: A dyeing technique used to pattern textiles that employs resist dyeing on the yarns prior to dyeing and weaving the fabric.
Inlay: Adding an extra piece of fabric, often with decorative elements, into a garment.
Interfacing: A textile used on the unseen or “wrong” side of fabrics to make an area of a garment more rigid.
Laser Cutting: A technology used to cut or engrave fabric in intricate patterns.
Lattice Smocking: A decorative technique that creates a lattice pattern on the fabric surface.
Layering: Strategically using multiple layers of clothing to add depth, texture, and versatility to a costume.
Macramé: A form of textile-making using knotting rather than weaving or knitting.
Millinery: Creating headwear, including hats, headdresses, and other headpieces.
New Technologies: Using software for digital costume design, which can include 3D modelling and digital prototyping.
Ombre Dyeing: A dyeing technique where colour is graduated from light to dark.
Pattern Drafting: Creating patterns for costumes from scratch or adapting existing patterns to fit specific designs and measurements.
Pleating: Folding fabric to create regular creases or folds for texture and design.
Quilting: A sewing technique where two or more layers of fabric are sewn together with padding in between.
Rendering: Detailed drawings or paintings of costume designs, showing fabric choices, colours, and textures.
Research: Investigating fashion and clothing styles from different periods to ensure historical accuracy in costumes.
Ribbon Embroidery: A type of embroidery where the ribbon is stitched onto fabric; often used for decorative purposes in costume design.
Rigging Costumes: Adapting costumes with special fastenings or closures to facilitate quick changes.
Satin Stitch: A smooth, flat stitch used in embroidery, sewn close together to fully cover an area.
Scaling and Proportion: Adjusting the scale and proportion of costume elements to enhance visual impact or character portrayal.
Sewing: Method of constructing costumes.
Sketching: Drawing designs to visualize the costumes, often using software or hand-drawing techniques.
Smocking: Decorative embroidery on gathered fabric for both style and stretch.
Storyboarding: Creating a visual narrative with drawings or pictures to show the progression of costumes throughout a production.
Tambour Embroidery: A form of embroidery in which the fabric is stretched taut on a frame and worked with a small hooked needle.
Textile Art: Incorporating unique handmade elements into costumes, such as dyeing, painting, or embroidery.
Underlining: Lining material sewn directly to the back of a garment piece, for added stability or opacity.
Understitching: Sewing a seam’s seam allowance to the facing or lining so that it lays flat and remains unseen.
Warp Knit: A type of knitting in which the yarns run lengthwise, making the fabric less prone to runs and more stable.
Weave: The technique of interlacing threads to form a fabric.
Wig Dressing: The art of styling wigs to suit specific characters or eras, often an important part of costume design.
GARMENT TYPES
A-Line: A dress or skirt shape that is narrow at the top and flares towards the bottom, resembling the letter ‘A’.
Balconette: A type of low-cut bra with horizontal cups that create a square neckline, often used under low-cut costumes.
Ballet Collar: A high, round neckline found on many ballet costumes.
Ballet Skirt: A short, stiff skirt often worn by ballerinas.
Balloon Hem: A hemline that is gathered or tucked to create a “puffed” balloon effect.
Balloon Sleeve: A long sleeve that is puffed out in the middle and gathered into a fitted cuff at the wrist.
Blazer: A tailored jacket, often in solid colors, worn for business or smart-casual occasions.
Blouse: A lightweight, loose-fitting top often worn by women.
Bodice: The upper part of a dress or costume, covering the torso.
Bomber Jacket: A short, zippered jacket with elastic cuffs and waistband, often made of nylon or leather.
Boot Cut: A style of trousers or jeans that are slightly flared from the knee downward, fitting over boots.
Bustle: A padded undergarment used to add fullness or shape to the backside of a woman’s dress.
Cape: A sleeveless outer garment that drapes over the shoulders and back.
Cardigan: A knitted sweater with an open front, often fastened with buttons or a zipper.
Cargo Pants: Pants with multiple pockets, often used for practical purposes.
Cheongsam/Qipao: A traditional Chinese dress for women, characterized by its high neck, fitted waist, and distinctive fastenings.
Chiffonade: A fine, fringed or shredded effect created on lightweight fabrics, often used for decorative elements.
Coif: A close-fitting cap worn under hats in historical periods, often made of linen.
Corset: A tightly fitting garment to shape the torso, often laced and boned.
Crinoline: A stiffened or hooped petticoat worn to make a long skirt stand out.
Culottes: A split or divided skirt or any garment which hangs like a skirt, but is actually pants.
Cul de Paris: A bustle-like padding worn at the back of the waist, to give fullness to skirts.
Cutaway Hem: A hemline, usually on coats or jackets, that is longer in the back than the front.
Dirndl: A traditional feminine dress worn in Austria and Bavaria, characterized by a tight bodice, full skirt, and apron.
Dolman Sleeve: A long sleeve that is wide at the top and narrow at the wrist.
Doublet: A close-fitting jacket worn in Europe during the Renaissance, with or without sleeves.
Dress: A one-piece garment worn by women, often with various styles and lengths.
Empire Line: A style where the dress has a fitted bodice ending just below the bust, giving a high-waisted appearance.
Farthingale: A hoop skirt or framework used in Western fashion in the 16th to 18th centuries to extend and shape the skirt worn over it.
Fichu: A small triangular shawl, worn around a woman’s shoulders and neck.
Gauntlet: A long glove, often extending up the arm.
Gigot Sleeve: Also known as a leg-of-mutton sleeve, this is a sleeve that is wide at the top and narrow at the wrist.
Godet: A piece of fabric inserted into a garment to add width and volume, typically in the skirt or sleeve.
Gore: A panel in a skirt or dress, usually tapered or shaped, and seamed together to add fullness.
Hoodie: A casual, pullover sweatshirt with a hood and a front pocket.
Jacket: A shorter outer garment typically worn over other clothing.
Jerkin: A close-fitting sleeveless and collarless jacket, often made of leather.
Jumpsuit: A one-piece garment that incorporates trousers and a top.
Kilt: A knee-length skirt-like garment with pleats at the back, originating from traditional Scottish dress.
Kimono: A traditional Japanese garment, a long robe with wide sleeves.
Mantle: A type of loose cloak or cape.
Overcoat: A heavy, long outerwear garment designed for warmth in cold weather.
Overdress: A garment worn over others, often for decorative purposes, and can be part of both historical and contemporary costumes.
Pannier: An 18th-century undergarment used to widen the skirts at the side.
Peacoat: A double-breasted, heavy wool coat with a broad collar, originally worn by sailors.
Peasant Top: A casual, gathered blouse or shirt with a loose-fitting waist, often with embroidery.
Peplum: A short, gathered or pleated strip of fabric attached at the waist of a jacket, blouse, or dress.
Petticoat: An underskirt often used to give shape to a skirt.
Poncho: A garment made from a single large piece of fabric with a hole in the centre for the head.
Sari: A traditional Indian garment, consisting of a length of cotton or silk elaborately draped around the body.
Sarong: A long piece of cloth worn wrapped around the body.
Skirt: A garment worn by women, typically from the waist down, with various lengths and styles.
Suit: A coordinated set of matching jacket and pants or skirt, typically worn for formal occasions.
Tailcoat: A man’s coat having a long, divided skirt from the waist, worn for formal occasions.
Toga: A loose, one-shoulder robe worn in ancient Rome.
Trench Coat: A long, waterproof coat with a belt, usually in a military style.
Tunic: A simple slip-on garment, typically knee-length and loose-fitting.
Ulster: A long, loose, heavy overcoat, originally made in Ulster, a province in Northern Ireland.
Vest: A sleeveless garment worn on the torso, typically over a shirt.
Vintage: Clothing originating from a previous era.
PRODUCTION TERMS
Budgeting: Managing the financial resources allocated for costumes, including materials, labor, and accessories.
Character Shoes: A type of shoe commonly used in theatre, designed to be versatile and adaptable to various period styles and characters.
Continuity Management: Ensuring consistency in costume appearance throughout the production, especially important for filming or long theatre runs.
Costume Fitting: Sessions where actors try on their costumes so adjustments can be made for fit and appearance.
Costume Plot: A detailed breakdown that lists what each character wears in each scene.
Costume Stock: A collection of costumes, shoes, accessories, and other wardrobe items kept by a theatre company for use in various productions.
Costume Track: A detailed sequence of costume changes for an individual actor, outlining what they wear in each scene.
Cultural Management: The process of researching cultural backgrounds and traditions to create authentic and respectful costumes for characters from various backgrounds.
Curtain Call Costumes: Costumes designed for the final bow or presentation at the end of a theatrical performance.
Dress Parade: An event where actors model their costumes for the director and design team to check for completeness, fit, and overall look.
Dress Rehearsal: Full run-throughs of the production with actors in full costume, used to finalize costume performance and functionality.
Dressing List: A list that outlines each actor’s costume changes in order of appearance throughout the play.
Mic Pack: A small electronic device worn by actors, often hidden within costumes, to amplify their voices during performances.
Post-Production Breakdown: The process of inventorying, cleaning, storing, or repurposing costumes after the conclusion of a production.
Pre-Set Costumes: Costumes that are laid out or arranged in advance, ready for quick changes during a performance.
Production Meeting: Regular meetings involving the director and heads of all departments, including costumes, to discuss progress and coordinate elements of the production.
Quick Change: An actor’s rapid costume change during a performance, often requiring assistance from a dresser.
Quick Change Room: A designated area, often backstage, prepared for rapid costume changes during a performance.
Show Report: A detailed report compiled after each performance, often including notes on any costume issues or required repairs.
Strike: The process of dismantling the set and costumes at the end of a production’s run.
Sourcing and Thrifting: Finding existing clothing items from thrift stores or costume rentals and modifying them for the production.
Sustainability Practices: Implementing environmentally friendly methods in costume design, like using recycled materials or minimizing waste.
Tech Week: The final week of rehearsals when all technical elements, including costumes, lighting, and sound, are integrated and fine-tuned.
Technical Rehearsal: Rehearsals where all technical elements, including costumes, are integrated into the production.
Turnaround: The time between performances when costumes must be cleaned, repaired, and prepped for the next show.
Underdressings: Garments worn underneath costumes, such as corsets, underskirts, or period-appropriate underwear.
Wardrobe Maintenance: The ongoing process of cleaning, repairing, and maintaining costumes throughout the run of a show.
FABRICS AND MATERIALS
Acetate: A synthetic fabric formed from cellulose acetate, known for its draping quality.
Aertex: A trademarked fabric with a honeycomb texture, used for breathable, lightweight clothing.
Alençon Lace: A needle lace with a floral design on a sheer net background, often used in bridal gowns.
Batiste: A lightweight, semi-sheer cotton cloth, finer than muslin.
Bouclé: A fabric made from looped yarns, giving it a knotted or curled appearance.
Brocade: A rich, decorative fabric with a raised pattern, often with gold or silver threads.
Brushed Cotton: Cotton fabric that has been brushed to remove excess lint and fibre, resulting in a softer feel.
Buckram: A stiff cotton fabric, often used in hat-making and for giving shape to costumes.
Calico: A plain-woven textile made from unbleached, and often not fully processed, cotton.
Canvas: A heavy-duty plain-woven fabric used for making costumes that require durability.
Challis: A lightweight, soft fabric made from wool, cotton, or synthetic fibres, known for its drapability.
Chambray: A lightweight, plain-weave fabric, similar to denim, used for shirts and dresses.
Chantilly Lace: A delicate and intricate lace named after the city of Chantilly, France, known for its fine ground, outlined pattern, and abundant detail.
Charmeuse: A lightweight fabric woven with a satin weave, where the front side has a satin finish.
Chenille: A soft fabric known for its fuzzy piles that resemble caterpillars, used for both decorative and warm garments.
Cheongsam/Qipao: A traditional Chinese dress for women, characterized by its high neck, fitted waist, and distinctive fastenings.
Chiffon: A lightweight, sheer fabric made from silk or synthetic fibres.
Corduroy: A textile composed of twisted fibres that, when woven, lie parallel to one another to form the cloth’s distinct ridged pattern, a “cord.”
Cotton: A natural fibre that is spun into thread or yarn and used to make a soft, breathable textile.
Coutil: A tightly woven cloth specifically designed for making corsets, known for its strength and durability.
Crinoline: A stiffened or hooped petticoat worn to make a long skirt stand out.
Damask: A reversible figured fabric of silk, wool, linen, cotton, or synthetic fibres, with a pattern formed by weaving.
Denier: A unit of measurement for the linear mass density of fibres used in the production of tights and stockings.
Denim: A sturdy cotton twill fabric, typically blue, used for jeans and other garments.
Dobby: A woven fabric with small geometric patterns and extra texture in the cloth, achieved using a dobby loom.
Drapé: French term for fabric that has been artfully arranged or pleated.
Duck Cloth: A heavy, plain woven cotton fabric, more tightly woven than canvas, often used for outdoor garments.
English Netting: A soft, diamond-patterned net, less stiff than regular tulle, often used in bridal veils and gowns.
Faux Fur: Synthetic fur made to resemble genuine animal fur.
Felt: A textile material that is produced by matting, condensing, and pressing fibres together.
Felted Wool: Wool that has been compressed and matted, often used for non-woven fabric applications.
Filigree: Delicate ornamental work of fine silver, gold, or other metal wires.
Flannel: A soft woven fabric, typically made of wool or cotton, and slightly milled and raised.
Fleece: A soft warm fabric with a texture similar to sheep’s wool, used in sweatshirts, jackets, and blankets.
Gauze: A thin, translucent fabric used for delicate costumes and layering.
Gingham: A lightweight, plain-woven cotton cloth, typically checked in white and a bold color.
Guipure Lace: A type of lace characterized by its raised patterns and lack of a net background.
Habotai Silk: A soft, lightweight silk fabric often used in costume design for its sheen and delicacy.
Hemp: A fibre derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, noted for its strength and durability.
Herringbone: A distinctive V-shaped weaving pattern usually found in tweed and wool fabrics.
Horsehair: A stiff fabric made from the hair of horses, used for hat brims and in historical garment construction.
Ikat: A dyeing technique used to pattern textiles that employ resist dyeing on the yarns prior to dyeing and weaving the fabric.
Italian Tulle: A softer, finer variant of tulle, often used in bridal wear and fine garments.
Jacquard: Fabric with an intricate variegated weave or pattern.
Jersey: A knit fabric known for its stretch and comfort, often used for casual and activewear.
Lace: An openwork fabric patterned with open holes, made by machine or by hand.
Lambswool: Wool from a young sheep, known for its softness, used in finer garments.
Lamé: A type of fabric woven or knit with thin ribbons of metallic yarns, often gold or silver.
Lawn: A fine, lightweight, plain woven cotton fabric used for delicate garments and undergarments.
Leather: A durable and flexible material created by tanning animal rawhide and skins.
Linen: A textile made from the fibres of the flax plant, known for its strength and coolness.
Lycra: A brand name for a type of stretchy, synthetic fibre, also known as spandex.
Macramé: A form of textile-making using knotting rather than weaving or knitting.
Merino: A high-quality wool yarn known for its softness, commonly used in luxury costumes.
Mesh: A material made from connected strands of metal, fibre, or other flexible/ductile materials, with evenly spaced openings.
Moiré: A fabric with a wavy (watered) appearance produced mainly from silk, wool, or cotton.
Moleskin: A heavy cotton fabric brushed on one side to create a soft feel resembling suede.
Muslin: A lightweight, breathable cotton fabric often used for making dress prototypes.
Neoprene: A synthetic rubber material often used in theatrical costumes for its body-sculpting effect.
Nylon: A synthetic polymer-based fabric known for its elasticity and resilience.
Oilcloth: A fabric treated on one side with oil to make it waterproof.
Organdy: A stiff, sheer cotton fabric often used for bridal wear and evening gowns.
Organza: A thin, sheer fabric traditionally made from silk, used particularly for bridalwear.
Ottoman: A textile with a pronounced ribbed or corded effect, often made of silk or a mixture of cotton and other synthetic fibres.
Panné Velvet: A type of velvet where the pile is pressed flat in one direction, giving it a high lustre.
Peau de Soie: A heavy satin fabric with a dull lustre, fine ribs, and a smooth texture.
Petticoat: An underskirt often used to give shape to a skirt.
Pique: A weaving style, normally used with cotton yarn, characterized by raised parallel cords or geometric designs in the fabric.
Plush: A fabric with a cut nap or pile the same as fustian or velvet. Its softness and warmth invited its use for shawls, blankets and dressing gowns.
Polyester: A common synthetic fibre, durable and wrinkle-resistant.
Poplin: A strong fabric in a plain weave of any fibre or blend, with crosswise ribs that typically gives a corded surface.
Rayon: A versatile fibre and is widely claimed to have the same comfort properties as natural fibres, although the drape and slipperiness of rayon textiles are often more like nylon.
Satin: A smooth, glossy fabric with a high sheen, typically formed with a satin weave.
Sateen: A weave that produces a smooth, glossy surface on fabric resembling satin.
Seersucker: A lightweight fabric, typically striped or checkered, with a puckered surface.
Silk: A natural, luxurious fibre made by silkworms, noted for its softness and sheen.
Silk Dupioni: A type of silk fabric made from double cocoons, known for its irregular slubs and sheen.
Spandex: A synthetic fibre known for its exceptional elasticity.
Suede: A type of leather with a napped finish, commonly used for jackets, shoes, shirts, purses, furniture and other items.
Synthetic: Man-made fibers produced through chemical processes, known for durability and stain resistance.
Taffeta: A crisp, smooth, plain woven fabric made from silk or synthetic fibres.
Ticking: A strong, tightly woven fabric traditionally used to cover pillows and mattresses.
Tulle: A lightweight, very fine, stiff netting often used for veils or gowns.
Tussar: A type of wild silk obtained from silkworms that feed on wild trees, known for its rich texture and natural gold colour.
Tweed: A rough-surfaced woollen cloth, typically of mixed flecked colours, originally produced in Scotland.
Twill: A textile weave with a pattern of diagonal parallel ribs.
Ultrasuede: A synthetic microfiber fabric with a soft, suede-like finish.
Velcro: A fastening material consisting of two strips of fabric, one with tiny hooks and the other with a dense pile, used for easy and adjustable costume fastenings.
Velour: A plush, knitted fabric or textile similar to velvet.
Velvet: A closely woven fabric with a thick, short pile on one side.
Velveteen: A cotton fabric made to resemble velvet.
Venise Lace: A heavier, more textured lace, often with floral patterns and scalloped edges.
Voile: A lightweight, semi-sheer fabric, typically made of cotton or cotton blends.
Whalebone: A material from whales used historically in corsets and hoop skirts for structure.
Wig: Artificial hair worn to cover or enhance one’s hair.
Wool: A natural fibre from sheep, known for warmth and elasticity.
Wool Crepe: A type of wool fabric that has a crinkled or pebbled texture.
Zephyr Wool: A fine, lightweight woollen fabric that is soft and somewhat akin to cashmere.
Zibelline: A soft, thick fabric with a long pile, imitating sable fur.
TOOLS AND TECHNOLOGIES
Awl: A small pointed tool used for piercing small holes or for assisting in feeding fabric under the sewing machine’s foot.
Bias Tape Maker: A tool for making bias tapes, which are strips of fabric cut on the bias and used for binding.
Blackout Curtain: A curtain used in theatres to block out light, often used for dramatic effect or scene changes.
Buttonhole Cutter: A tool for making precise cuts for buttonholes.
Canvas Interfacing: A sturdy interfacing used in tailoring to give structure to garments.
Chalk Wheel: A tool used for marking fabric with chalk, particularly useful for temporary markings that can be easily brushed off.
Draping Pins: Pins used to hold fabric in place on a mannequin during the draping process.
Dress Form: An adjustable model of the human body used by costume designers to drape and fit costumes.
Dryer: Essential for pre-treating fabrics and maintaining costumes.
Dye Log: A record maintained by the costume department detailing the dyes used for fabrics, including formulas and samples.
Dyeing Equipment: Tools and materials used to achieve the desired colours for dyeing fabrics.
Elastic Threader: A tool used for inserting elastic through casings in garments.
Embroidery Hoop: A circular tool used to keep fabric taut while doing embroidery work.
Eyelet Punch/Setters: Tools for creating eyelets in fabric, often used in corsetry and lacing.
Fabric Marker: Tool used for making temporary marks on fabric for cutting or folding.
Fabric Scissors: Scissors specifically designed for cutting fabrics; these are typically sharper and more precise than regular scissors.
Fabric Stabilizer: A material used to reinforce fabric for sewing, especially useful in embroidery.
French Curve: Tools for drawing complex curves on patterns.
Gondola: A movable wardrobe rack used backstage for organizing and transporting costumes.
Hot Glue Gun: Often used for quick fixes or attaching non-fabric items to costumes.
Iron and Ironing Board: Essential tools for pressing fabrics and garments to ensure a crisp, professional finish.
Jacquard Ribbon: A ribbon with intricate designs woven into it, rather than printed or embroidered.
Light Table: A table with a light source beneath, useful for tracing designs or patterns.
Loop Turner: A tool used for turning narrow tubes of fabric right-side out, typically for making button loops or fabric ties.
Magnifying Glass: Often used in detailed handwork like beading or embroidery.
Mannequin: An adjustable model of the human body used by costume designers to drape and fit costumes.
Needles: Various sizes and types of needles for different sewing purposes, including hand sewing and machine sewing.
Overlock Machine/Serger: A specialised sewing machine that finishes the edges of the fabric to prevent fraying and creates a clean, professional look.
Pattern Notcher: A tool that creates small notches in the edge of paper patterns to mark key fitting points.
Pattern Paper: Large paper used for drafting patterns for garments.
Pattern Weights: Weights used to hold patterns in place on fabric to ensure accurate cutting without pinning.
Pinking Shears: Scissors with a serrated blade that cuts a zigzag edge, used to prevent fabric from fraying.
Pin Cushion: A small cushion that conveniently stores pins and needles while working.
Presser: An individual responsible for ironing and pressing costumes in the wardrobe department to ensure they look their best on stage.
Pressing Cloth: A cloth used between the iron and fabric to protect delicate fabrics from direct heat.
Rotary Cutter and Mat: A cutter with a circular blade, ideal for cutting straight lines, paired with a mat to protect surfaces.
Ruler: Tool for drawing straight lines and complex curves on patterns.
Seam Ripper: A small tool used for unpicking stitches.
Sewing Machine: A machine used to stitch fabric and other materials together with thread.
Sketch Pad and Pencils: Used for drafting initial costume designs and ideas.
Steamer: A device used to remove wrinkles from fabric through steam, often used for delicate fabrics that cannot be ironed.
Tailor’s Chalk: Tool used for making temporary marks on fabric for cutting or folding.
Tailor’s Ham: A firmly stuffed pillow in a curved shape used for pressing curved seams and darts.
Tape Measure: A flexible ruler used to take body measurements and measure fabric lengths.
Textile Paints: Used for adding hand-painted designs to fabric.
Thimble: A small protective shield worn on the finger or thumb to protect against needle pricks.
Thread: Available in various colours and types, used for sewing pieces of fabric together.
Tracing Paper: Tool used to transfer pattern markings onto fabric.
Tracing Wheel: Tool used to transfer pattern markings onto fabric.
Wardrobe Rack: A large rack used for storing and organizing costumes.
Washer: Essential for pre-treating fabrics and maintaining costumes
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