UK Career Advice

Costume Assistant: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

Career Overview
Interview Questions

What is a Costume Assistant?

A Costume Assistant helps in the creation and organization of costumes and fashion accessories used in films, theatre productions, or other performances. In this creative role, you'll work closely with costume designers to bring characters and stories to life through clothing and styling choices.

How do I become a Costume Assistant?

A Costume Assistant helps in the creation and organization of costumes and fashion accessories used in films, theatre productions, or other performances. In this creative role, you'll work closely with costume designers to bring characters and stories to life through clothing and styling choices.

What would you like to know?

What does it take to become an Costume Assistant?

Skills, education, personality, career progression

Job demand for an Costume Assistant

Job ads, popular location, season to apply



Qualifications & Education

  • Completion of a foundation course in fashion design
  • BTEC/SQA award in fashion design
  • Degree in fashion design
  • Postgraduate qualification in fashion design
  • NVQ/SVQ in Fashion Design and Design at Level 2
  • Apprenticeships in fashion design at Levels 2 and 3

Career Path

Costume Assistant
Costume Designer
Fashion Designer
Creative Director
Wardrobe Supervisor
Wardrobe Manager
Head of Wardrobe
Costume Maker
Tailor
Fashion Stylist
Theatrical Costume Designer
Film Costume Designer
Academy Award-winning Costume Designer
Fashion Show Coordinator
Event Planner

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the three important skills of a costume shop assistant?

Artistic ability, computer skills, and creativity are three important skills for a costume shop assistant in the UK.

What does a costume assistant do?

A costume assistant helps with the preparation, maintenance, and cleaning of costumes for productions such as TV shows and movies. They may work in a team to ensure costumes are ready for fittings, rehearsals, and recordings, and are often on set during filming to make adjustments and repairs.

What qualifications do you need to be a wardrobe assistant?

To become a wardrobe assistant in the UK, you typically need a Level 2 Certificate in Fashion and Textiles, a Level 3 Certificate in Theatre Support Costume and Wardrobe, or a T Level in Craft and Design.

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