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Costume Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a Stylist/ Costume director you will be in charge of dressing up models for their photoshoots and will be working with different models for the company * Distribute costumes or related equipment ...

$89.24 - $121.64/hr

Teach Fundamentals of Costume Design, or future technical classes such as make-up, color and design, or general theatre classes as understanding theatre, lecture and/or lab. * There may be ...

As a Stylist/ Costume director you will be in charge of dressing up models for their photoshoots and will be working with different models for the company * Distribute costumes or related equipment ...

Costume Shop Coordinator

Redlands, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $19.28/hr

Individuals qualified to serve as costume designer may have opportunities to design productions for additional compensation. Duties and Responsibilities: The duties and responsibilities include, but ...

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Costume Design information

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$10

$19

$37

How much do costume design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for costume design in the United States is $19.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Costume Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Costume Designer, you need a solid background in fashion design, garment construction, and costume history, usually supported by a degree in costume or fashion design. Proficiency in design software like Adobe Creative Suite, pattern-making tools, and fabric sourcing systems is typically expected. Creativity, attention to detail, collaboration, and strong communication skills help Costume Designers excel in interpreting scripts and working with directors and cast. These skills are vital for bringing characters to life, ensuring visual consistency, and contributing to the overall storytelling of a production.

How does a costume designer typically collaborate with directors and other creative departments during a production?

Costume designers work closely with directors to understand the overall vision and mood of a production, ensuring that costumes accurately reflect the characters and setting. They also regularly coordinate with set and lighting designers to maintain visual harmony and consider practical aspects like movement and quick changes. Effective communication and flexibility are essential, as adjustments often need to be made throughout rehearsals based on feedback from the creative team and performers. This collaborative process is key to delivering cohesive and impactful storytelling through costume.

How much do you make as a Costume Designer?

The average salary for a costume designer varies depending on experience, location, and project scope, typically ranging from $40,000 to $100,000 annually. Entry-level designers may earn less, while those working on major productions or with advanced skills can earn higher wages, often supplemented by freelance work or union memberships.

What is the highest salary for a Costume Designer?

The highest salary for a costume designer can exceed $100,000 annually, especially for those working in film, television, or high-profile theater productions. Experienced costume designers with a strong portfolio and industry reputation may earn higher salaries, often supplemented by freelance work or additional benefits.

What qualifications does a Costume Designer need?

A costume designer typically needs a bachelor's degree in costume design, fashion, theater, or a related field. Strong skills in sewing, illustration, and understanding of fabrics are essential, along with experience in costume construction and collaboration with production teams. Proficiency with design software and a portfolio of previous work are also important for securing jobs in the field.

What jobs can you get with a costume design degree?

A costume design degree can lead to careers such as costume designer for theater, film, or television, as well as roles in wardrobe supervision, costume construction, and wardrobe styling. These jobs often require skills in sewing, pattern making, and knowledge of fabrics and historical clothing, with work environments including studios, theaters, and production sets.

What is the difference between Costume Design vs Wardrobe Supervisor?

AspectCostume DesignWardrobe Supervisor
CredentialsFashion or costume design degree, portfolioExperience in wardrobe management, sometimes fashion background
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, film, theater, TV setsOn-set, backstage, costume departments
Employer & Industry UsageFilm, TV, theater productions, fashion showsFilm, TV, theater, live performances

Costume Designers create original costumes based on character needs and director vision, focusing on design and aesthetics. Wardrobe Supervisors manage existing costumes, oversee fittings, and ensure continuity during production. While both roles work closely in costume departments, Costume Design emphasizes creative design, whereas Wardrobe Supervision centers on management and logistics.

What is costume design?

Costume design is the art of creating clothing and outfits for characters in theater, film, television, and other performance arts. Costume designers work closely with directors and other creative team members to develop looks that help convey the story, era, personality, and setting of each character. Their responsibilities include researching historical periods, selecting fabrics, sketching designs, collaborating with costume makers, and fitting actors. The ultimate goal is to enhance storytelling through visually appropriate and expressive costumes.
More about Costume Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Costume Design jobs? Cities with the most Costume Design job openings:
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What states have the most Costume Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Costume Design jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Costume Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Costume Design jobs are:
Infographic showing various Costume Design job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 28% Internship, 16% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 5% Temporary, 42% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,680 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
Costume Designer

$23.51 - $29.90/hr

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

The part-time Costume Design position will work 20 hours per week with the Dance Program within the LMU Theatre and Dance Department, part of the LMU College of Communication and Fine Arts, in the creation and execution of costumes for four annual productions. The Costume Designer will work primarily within Dance though there will be coordination and collaboration as needed with the Costume Shop Manager and Supervisor in the Theatre Program. Duties will include sewing, pattern making, alterations, working with professional and student choreographers, costume crafts, assisting in costume storage, costume purchasing rentals and returns. Attending tech/dress rehearsals (either evening or weekend) is also required. Other duties as assigned.

Position Specific Responsibilities/Accountabilities

  • Costume Design and sewing including, but not limited to, making and altering costumes for Dance Program productions (4 annually). 70%

  • Work with choreographers (student and professional) to understand their vision and support their work 10%

  • Assist with costume purchases, rentals and returns 10%

  • Assist with costume storage and organization for the dance department 5%

  • Attend weekly faculty meeting and production meetings; other duties as assigned or requested 5%

  • Perform other related duties.

Loyola Marymount University Expectations

Exhibit behavior that supports the mission, vision, and values of the university. Communicate and employ interpersonal actions that model high standards of professional, responsible, accountable, and ethical conduct. Demonstrate a commitment to outstanding customer service.

Requisite Qualifications

  • Typically a Bachelor's degree in theatre or equivalent professional experience. Incumbent will be expected to continue upgrading knowledge, skills, and abilities and to keep abreast of regulation/policy changes.

  • Minimum 2 years in a professional costume shop.

  • Demonstrated knowledge in the areas of: sewing, pattern-making, costume crafts, etc.

  • Exemplary communication skills (both written and oral)

  • Highly developed organizational and leadership skills

  • Demonstrated computer competency and adherence to university purchasing guidelines and timelines.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of this position.

#HERC# #HEJ#

Hiring Salary Range

$23.51 - $29.90

Staff Regular

Salary range

$23.51 - $29.38 Salary commensurate with education and experience.

Please note that this position may not be eligible for visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Loyola Marymount University, a Carnegie classified R2 institution in the mainstream of American Catholic higher education, seeks outstanding applicants who value its mission and share its commitment to inclusive excellence, the education of the whole person, and the building of a just society. LMU is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing an environment free from discrimination and harassment as defined by federal, state and local law. We invite all persons in the full diversity of their being, life experience, and beliefs to apply. (Visit www.lmu.edu for more information.)

LMU is committed to providing equal access to employment opportunities and ensuring a comprehensive recruitment and selection process for all applicants.

Individuals who require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any stage of the application, interview, or selection process may contact Human Resources at hr@lmu.eduor by phone at (310) 338-2723. Applicants who use relay services or other assistive communication technologies are welcome to utilize those services when contacting Human Resources.

When contacting Human Resources, please include the job posting number, title of the position and department for which you are applying. Applicants are not required to disclose the nature of a disability or provide medical information when requesting an accommodation during the recruitment process.

LMU will work with applicants in a timely and interactive process to identify and provide reasonable accommodations consistent with applicable federal and state law.