Costume designer

As a costume designer, you would:

• work with the production team to understand costume requirements
•  research costume styles, materials, location and time period
•  produce designs by hand or using design software
•  create costumes and accessories
•  hire costumes and fit, alter and repair outfits
•  make sure costumes are well maintained and stored properly for future use

• design skills and knowledge
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
• knowledge of the fine arts
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to work well with your hands
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role

You could go on to specialise in theatre, film or TV.

You might also work on specific types of production, for example historical programmes or theatrical shows.

You could take on responsibility for managing a team of costume designers and assistants, move into set design or become a production manager.