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Costume Stylist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Costume Stylist information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$20

$32

How much do costume stylist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for costume stylist in Virginia is $20.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $23.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a costume stylist?

Costume stylists are professionals who design, select, and coordinate clothing and accessories for actors, models, or performers in film, television, theater, and photo shoots. Their main responsibility is to create the appropriate look for characters based on the script, director’s vision, and production requirements. They often research historical periods, source garments, and collaborate with costume designers, directors, and other creative team members. Costume stylists play a vital role in visually telling a story and enhancing character development through wardrobe choices.

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

To thrive as a Costume Stylist, you need a strong background in fashion design, garment construction, and an understanding of historical and contemporary styles, often supported by a degree in fashion or costume design. Familiarity with design software (such as Adobe Illustrator), fabric sourcing, and wardrobe management systems is typically required. Creativity, strong organizational skills, and effective communication set standout stylists apart in collaborating with directors and performers. These skills are crucial to ensuring costumes enhance character portrayal and meet the creative vision of a production.

How does a costume stylist typically collaborate with directors and actors during a production?

A Costume Stylist works closely with directors to understand the overall vision and mood of the production, ensuring that wardrobe choices align with storytelling and character development. Regular meetings and fittings with actors are common, allowing stylists to adjust costumes for comfort, practicality, and authenticity. Open communication and flexibility are essential, as last-minute script changes or actor feedback may require quick wardrobe modifications. This collaborative process ensures that costumes enhance both the performance and the audience's experience.

What is the difference between Costume Stylist vs Wardrobe Stylist?

AspectCostume StylistWardrobe Stylist
CredentialsExperience in costume design, fashion, or related fieldsFashion knowledge, styling experience, often fashion-related certifications
Work EnvironmentFilm, TV, theater, photoshoots with costume needsPersonal styling, fashion shoots, editorial, commercial work
Industry UsageUsed mainly in entertainment and production settingsCommonly in fashion, advertising, and personal styling

Costume stylists focus on creating and sourcing costumes for performances and productions, often working closely with directors and costume designers. Wardrobe stylists primarily style individuals for photoshoots, events, or campaigns, emphasizing personal fashion. While both roles involve styling and fashion knowledge, costume stylists specialize in character and period-specific attire, whereas wardrobe stylists focus on contemporary fashion and personal style.

Are costume stylists in demand?

Costume stylists are in demand in industries such as film, television, theater, and fashion, especially during peak production seasons. The profession requires creativity, knowledge of fashion trends, and often collaboration with production teams, with job opportunities varying based on industry needs and location.

What are popular job titles related to Costume Stylist jobs in Virginia?

For Costume Stylist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Costume Stylist jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Costume Stylist jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Costume Stylist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 62% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $43,421 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Temporary Worker (Costume Shop Assistant - Wigs)

Regent University

Virginia Beach, VA

$12.77/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Temporary

Posted 15 days ago


Regent University rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

482nd of 629 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Temporary Worker (Costume Shop Assistant - Wigs)

Apply now Job no: 50000570
Work type: Part time
Location: Virginia Beach
Categories: Student & Temporary

Responsibilities:

  • Assist with the wig/hair design of each show
  • Attend dress rehearsals and shows, acting as a wig/hair stylist
  • Perform wardrobe duties including ironing, steaming, laundry, and repairing costumes during the run of productions
  • Perform dresser duties per show as needed
  • Assist with show strike of wigs and costumes
  • Maintain and organize the wig and costume stock as needed
  • Maintain a clean and safe workspace

Requirements:

  • Ability to follow instructions and work within a team
  • Knowledge of wig/hair styling, application, and maintenance
  • Basic knowledge of safety equipment/tools/machines and their uses
  • Physical stamina to stand extended periods, push loaded clothing racks, and lift up to 25 pounds
  • Availability to work evenings and weekends
  • Commitment to Regent's core values of Excellence, Innovation, and Integrity 

Regent University does not discriminate in employment in its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, age or veteran status. For full Non-Discrimination Policy click here.

Salary: $12.77 per hour

Benefits

Not eligible for benefits.

#LI-DNI

Advertised: 20 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 20 Feb 2027 Eastern Standard Time

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