Textiles in the Costume Industry

This chapter explores how textiles are sourced, dyed, printed, constructed, embellished, painted and broken down as the costumes for a performance are designed, developed and manufactured. From the initial creative aesthetic vison of the designer, through to the completed costume worn by the performer within the production, this chapter will reflect on the various roles and responsibilities within a typical costume department. Analysing the work of the costume designer, costume supervisor, costume maker and textile artist, and drawing on the expertise of various industry practitioners, the chapter will provide an overview of how each informs and influences the journey of a costume’s textiles as they transition through the various stages of production.