Overview

This standard is about your ability to research costume in relation to genre, history and technical aspects, together with an overall knowledge of costume which will inform professional practice.

This may involve accessing reliable sources of information, developing an overall awareness of costume history, identifying costume construction techniques and the fabrics and materials used to create different styles.

This standard may be applicable to costume designers, supervisors, costume assistants, costume stand bys and wardrobe assistants.

 

Performance criteria

You must be able to do:

  1. interpret the production/design brief/script and confirm the genre /historical period of the production
  2. analyse and select effective research strategies to source costume information
  3. evaluate the credibility of information gathered and ensure research scop   sufficiently broad
  4. establish key costume trends in relation to the genre/ historical period of the production
  5. evaluate the initial costume design concept against historical accuracy, function, purpose and the design brief
  6. highlight amendments that will maintain historical accuracy and adhere to common perceptions of that period
  7. define key garment construction techniques in relation to the genre/ historical period of the production
  8. identify materials and fabrics used in relation to the genre/ historical period of the production
  9. communicate with the production team and all relevant department/individuals
  10. follow health and safety legislation and guidelines at all times

 

Knowledge and understanding

You need to know and understand: 

  1. the history of costume in general from medieval to the 21st century
  2. costume trends across different genres and historical periods
  3. research sources, methodologies and options
  4. historical accuracy related to the production period/ genre
  5. feasible traditional and modern construction techniques and methods of producing costumes
  6. budgets, human resources and equipment required to produce costumes
  7. design briefs, scripts and costume breakdowns
  8. the materials and components used to create different styles
  9. all personnel involved in the production and the communication protocol
  10. statutory responsibilities under health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations