Costume – USITT Teaching Archive

Fabric as Inspiration

July 8, 2023July 8, 2023 cmetzger

Submitted by: Christianne Myers, University of Michigan

Abstract

As designers, when something is being built for the show, the very fabric can serve as a source of inspiration for the overall design of a garment. When a fabric has a bold pattern, it is the designer’s responsibility to determine with the draper how that pattern will “collaborate” with the style lines of the costume. How can the repositioning of the motifs change the mood and character of the look? What other trims or fabrics can join the “conversation” of the look? Let’s use this exercise to get the creative juices flowing and understand how the same source/inspiration can inform different end results. Using the provided fabric and the assigned mid-20th century dress, design two different looks.

Creating Costume Magic

March 9, 2021March 9, 2021 cmetzger

Submitted by Caitlin Quinn, The University of Minnesota Duluth

Abstract

Productions sometimes call for a “costume magic” moment – a costume requirement that calls for special planning during the design process. This could be an onstage super-fast quick change, a “rigged” costume which changes from one look to another, or a costume designed to drastically change the actor’s body shape (like stilts). Students are assigned “magic” moments within productions and figure out the design and function of the costume.

Clothes Tell a Story: The “J Peterman” Project

August 31, 2020June 22, 2021 cmetzger

Submitted by Christianne Myers, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Abstract

This introductory costume design project invites creativity while disrupting the “fear of the figure” sometimes felt by students. Using an article of clothing, students write a story/situation in the style of the J Peterman Catalog and render the garment realistically.

Theoretical Millinery Research Project

August 27, 2020August 28, 2020 cmetzger

Submitted by Christianne Myers, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Abstract

This research project introduces students to using digital museum collections, project management and budgeting. Using a museum artifact, students propose a step-by-step build process for adapting the artifact for stage purposes, provide working drawings, and source the materials with an estimated budget.