What does a Costume Designer do?

A Costume Designer is the person responsible for designing the costumes for a production. They make sure they match the time period, the characters and the Director’s vision for the piece, as well as being practical for the Performer.

What are the main responsibilities of a Costume Designer?

Reading the full script, marking and making notes on areas that will affect costume
Research the time period and setting of the play
Researching fashion in certain time periods and places
Design the costume for each character
Liaise with the Director on the overall vision of the play
Delegate work to a Costume Maker or Costume Supervisor

What qualifications do I need to be a Costume Designer?

While you do not need a degree for this role, here are some useful subjects and courses that could help you get a head start in the industry:

Costume Design
Fine Art
Art and Design
Fashion
Dressmaking
Textiles

Find training opportunities in design from across the theatre industry here

What skills do I need to be a Costume Designer?

These are the desirable skills for the right candidate to have to be a Costume Designer:

Design skills
Creativity
Organisational skills
An eye for detail
A good understanding of costume and fashion history
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Competent in sewing
Ability to work alone as well as with others
Ability to communicate and present your ideas

Always ensure you keep examples of your work. Read our blog 'How to make a costume design portfolio.'

What does a career in costume design look like?

You may start as a Wardrobe Assistant and move into more senior roles such as Wardrobe Master/Mistress or Costume Supervisor and then move into Costume Design. Some people have gone from set design areas into costume design roles. Keeping a portfolio will help you showcase your talent. Find out how to make a portfolio here.

How much can a Costume Designer earn?

Pay for a Costume Designer can vary depending on their level of experience. They can be in-house for theatres who produce their own work regularly and paid a salary. However, it is likely that you will be freelance and design for a fee, which can vary based on the show scale and the company. Salaries can range from apprenticeship salary, to upwards of £35k. For one production, 2024/2025 Equity rates suggest a Designer fee of £3133.13 and a weekly making fee of £613.84. Sometimes, and often for smaller scale productions, the Set and Costume Designer will be the same person.

The above is a guide. Pay, salary or fee can vary depending on the theatre or company, as well as your personal experience. National institutions or commercial productions can pay in excess of the above, with profit-share or community theatre paying less.

You can find theatre jobs via The Stage Jobs here