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Think of a costume designer as a visual storyteller. Their job isn’t just to dress characters; it’s to bring them to life.
Ever wondered how characters in movies look so effortlessly perfect, whether they’re rocking medieval armour, futuristic space suits, or regular ol’ jeans and T-shirts that somehow still scream main character energy?
Well, my friend, that’s all thanks to the costume designers.
These creative wizards don’t just throw random outfits on actors. Nope! Every stitch, every button, and every shade of fabric has a purpose.
Costume designers are the secret sauce that makes characters unforgettable and stories believable.
Whether it’s a superhero’s iconic cape or the scruffy jacket of a struggling artist, costumes tell us who the characters are before they even open their mouths.
READ ALSO: This is How a Director Thinks Differently from a Screenwriter
Here’s a breakdown of what they do.
1. Understanding the Script
Costume designers are some of the first people to get their hands on the script. Why? Because they need to understand: Who are these characters? Where and when does the story take place? What’s the vibe? Gritty realism? Fantastical whimsy? 1990s Lagos chic?
They read, analyze, and sometimes even stalk the script like it owes them money. Every plot twist, character development, and setting change influences what the costumes will look like.
2. Research, Research, Research
If the movie is set in a specific era or culture, the costume designer dives into historical and cultural research. Did you know zippers weren’t a thing in the 1700s? They do.
A movie about the Victorian era with 21st-century sneakers? Not on their watch. Oh, and if it’s a fantasy film? Get ready for mood boards filled with dragon scales, mythical creature vibes, and fabrics that scream epic battle incoming.
3. Designing the Looks
This is where the magic happens. Costume designers sketch, sketch, and sketch some more. They create detailed illustrations of what every character will wear, complete with notes like:
“Make it look like this coat has been through five wars.” “Add sequins but not too sparkly; this is a sad disco scene.” “This villain’s suit needs to scream power but also creepy vibes.”
4. Fabric Shopping
Imagine walking into a fabric store with a mood board in one hand and a director’s vision in the other. That’s a costume designer’s reality.
They hunt for fabrics, textures, and colours that align with the character’s stories. If they can’t find it, they’ll have it custom-made.
And let’s not forget accessories; belts, hats, jewellery, fake bloodstains; they’re all part of the package.
Once the costumes are ready, it’s time to hit the set. Here’s what happens next:
1. Fittings: When Actors Become Their Characters
Costume fittings are like a dress rehearsal for the clothes. The designer works closely with actors to ensure the outfits fit perfectly and feel authentic. Adjustments are made on the spot, and actors often have fun (or not-so-fun) reactions.
2. On-set adjustments
Movie sets are unpredictable. Costumes can tear, props can snag, and unexpected rain can ruin everything. Costume designers are always on standby, ready to sew, glue, or improvise.
They often carry a costume emergency kit with everything from safety pins to duct tape.
3. Continuity: The Ultimate Detective Work
Ever noticed how a character’s shirt stays ripped in the exact same spot throughout a movie? That’s no accident.
Costume designers (and their teams) keep detailed notes and photos to ensure everything stays consistent, even if a scene is filmed weeks apart.
Costume designers deserve more accolades
Costume designers don’t always get the recognition they deserve. But without them, movies would look…weird.
Imagine Black Panther without its stunning Wakandan outfits or Bridgerton without its opulent Regency-era gowns. Exactly.
Costume designers do more than just make clothes; they create art that defines characters, sets the tone, and immerses us in the story.
