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Wardrobe Manager Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Arena Stage

Costume Director

Washington, DC · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Oversee the process of the production of the costumes from design to completion as well as wardrobe personnel and maintenance MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: * 5 years of costume management experience

Arena Stage

Costume Director

Washington, DC · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Oversee the process of the production of the costumes from design to completion as well as wardrobe personnel and maintenanceMINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: 5 years of costume management experienceExcellent ...

Jcrew

Associate Manager

Washington, DC

$29.25 - $36.50/hr

Since 2006, we've been creating premium denim and foundational wardrobe pieces for men and women ... Job Summary As an Associate Manager, you are a key member of the leadership team. You are ...

KnitWell Group

Assistant Manager-ANN

Columbia, MD · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... wardrobe. About the role As Assistant Manager, you support the customer experience and shape a ... strong store culture for associates. Your role as a store leader is an opportunity to nurture ...

KnitWell Group

Assistant Manager-ANN

Mclean, VA · On-site

$16.77 - $20.95/hr

... wardrobe. About the role As Assistant Manager, you support the customer experience and shape a ... strong store culture for associates. Your role as a store leader is an opportunity to nurture ...

KnitWell Group

Assistant Manager-ANN

Mclean, VA · On-site

$16.77 - $20.95/hr

... wardrobe. About the role As Assistant Manager, you support the customer experience and shape a ... strong store culture for associates. Your role as a store leader is an opportunity to nurture ...

Jcrew

Assistant Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$21.50 - $27/hr

Since 2006, we've been creating premium denim and foundational wardrobe pieces for men and women ... Job Summary As an Assistant Manager, you're a part of the leadership team. You help drive ...

Bloomforth Corp

Fashion Associate

Occoquan, VA · On-site

$15 - $17.25/hr

... fabulous wardrobe for fashion shows hosted by local businesses and organizations in settings ... Assist Operation Manager in event planning and hosting fashion shows Maintain floor standards ...

H&M

Floor Manager

Washington, DC

Company Description COS offers a wardrobe of ready-to-wear and accessories rooted in exceptional ... As a Floor Manager, you're be at the forefront of creating excellent customer experiences that go ...

Bloomforth Corp

Fashion Associate

Occoquan, VA · On-site

$15 - $17.25/hr

... fabulous wardrobe for fashion shows hosted by local businesses and organizations in settings ... Manager in event planning and hosting fashion shows • Maintain floor standards including ...

KnitWell Group

Store Manager, Annapolis Mall

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$53K - $64K/yr

Express your authentic self and experience endless inspiration, all while enjoying the opportunities and benefits that help you get the most from your career, life, and wardrobe. As a Store Manager ...

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Wardrobe Manager information

See Washington salary details

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$23

$39

How much do wardrobe manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for wardrobe manager in Washington is $23.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $25.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Wardrobe Manager vs Costume Designer?

AspectWardrobe ManagerCostume Designer
CredentialsExperience in wardrobe management, fashion knowledgeDesign degree, fashion or costume design certification
Work EnvironmentFilm, theater, TV production, fashion industryFilm, theater, TV, fashion shows
Employer & Industry UsageProduction companies, theaters, fashion housesFilm studios, theater companies, fashion brands
Search & Comparison IntentPeople looking for wardrobe management roles or servicesPeople interested in costume design or creating costumes

The main difference is that a Wardrobe Manager oversees the organization, maintenance, and management of clothing and costumes used in productions, ensuring everything runs smoothly. A Costume Designer, on the other hand, is responsible for designing and creating costumes that fit the character and story. While both roles work closely in production settings, the Wardrobe Manager focuses on logistics and upkeep, whereas the Costume Designer focuses on creative design and creation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wardrobe manager?

To thrive as a Wardrobe Manager, you need expertise in costume design, garment care, and inventory management, typically supported by experience in theater, film, or fashion and sometimes a degree in fashion or costume design. Familiarity with wardrobe management software, sewing machines, and maintenance tools is often required. Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills help you coordinate with cast, crew, and designers while managing tight schedules and quick changes. These abilities ensure smooth costume operations, maintain production quality, and support the creative vision in high-pressure environments.

How do you become a wardrobe manager?

To become a wardrobe manager, candidates typically need experience in costume design, wardrobe supervision, or fashion management, often gained through internships or entry-level roles in theater, film, or television. Relevant skills include organization, attention to detail, and knowledge of clothing maintenance and inventory management; some positions may require a background in fashion or costume design. Certification is not mandatory but can enhance job prospects, and familiarity with wardrobe tools and scheduling is beneficial.

What are some common challenges faced by a wardrobe manager during a theatrical production, and how can they be effectively addressed?

Wardrobe Managers often face challenges such as last-minute costume changes, managing a large inventory of garments, and ensuring quick repairs or alterations during live performances. To address these issues, it's essential to develop strong organizational systems, maintain clear communication with the costume and production teams, and keep a well-stocked kit for emergency fixes. Building good rapport with performers and anticipating potential wardrobe malfunctions can also help ensure smooth backstage operations.

How much does a wardrobe manager make?

The average salary for a wardrobe manager ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the scope of the production or organization. Wardrobe managers working in film, theater, or fashion may earn higher salaries, especially with specialized skills and certifications. Compensation can also include benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

What is a wardrobe manager?

Wardrobe Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing all aspects of costumes and clothing for theatrical productions, film sets, or television shows. They coordinate the acquisition, organization, maintenance, and repair of garments and accessories, ensuring that performers have the correct outfits for each scene. Wardrobe Managers also supervise wardrobe staff, manage budgets, and work closely with costume designers and directors to achieve the desired visual style. Their role is essential for maintaining continuity and supporting the creative vision of a production.
What are the most commonly searched types of Wardrobe jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Wardrobe jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Wardrobe Manager jobs in Washington? For Wardrobe Manager jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Wardrobe Manager jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Wardrobe Manager jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Wardrobe Manager jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Wardrobe Manager job openings:
Wardrobe Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wardrobe Manager job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,788 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Costume Director

Arena Stage

Washington, DC • On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

WHO WE ARE
Arena Stage is the voice of American theater resident in our nation's capital. Focused on American artists, our productions are innovative and representative of stories from across the country. We nurture new plays and reimagine classics. We celebrate our democracy and diversity through a multitude of voices in our productions and community engagement programs to inspire people to action.
WHAT WE VALUE
A work culture that values experimentation and collaboration.
Excellence in all aspects of our endeavor.
Diversity, Equity, Accessibility and Inclusion throughout the Organization and within our audience and the community.
Community Service through education and public engagement.
Lead effective partnerships and collaboration to serve artists and arts professionals.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
Hire, train, evaluate and supervise costume and wig personnel. Oversee the process of the production of the costumes from design to completion as well as wardrobe personnel and maintenance
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
  • 5 years of costume management experience
  • Excellent knowledge of design techniques, techniques of execution, and crafts, knowledge of costume history
  • Excellent communication skills, excellent organizational skills, basic accounting
  • MS Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and basic internet
  • Licensed driver
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds

RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Responsible for the overall planning, execution and maintenance of the costume shop and wardrobe department
  • With assistance from the Senior Production Manager, identify staff requirements and engagement of same
  • Responsible to the designers for delivering the costumes as designed within the resources available
  • Determine scheduling and staffing costume shop and wardrobe
  • Develop build, shopping and pulling schedules
  • Responsible for the swatching, and acquisition of materials
  • Assign draper tasks
  • Schedule fittings and hair appointments
  • Where necessary, identify third parties for outsourcing costume builds and coordinate fitting and delivery schedules
  • Coordinate hair and makeup requirements
  • Responsible for budget breakdown and budget management of the costume shop and wardrobe
  • Coordinate advance photo shoots and costume rentals
  • Coordinate the dry-cleaning requirements for the wardrobe/costume shop
  • When necessary, provide mentoring and supervision for fellows and interns
  • Attend production meetings, department heads, and other meetings as required
  • Provide support as possible for costume displays and other special projects for marketing and development.

The Washington Drama Society, Inc., Arena Stage does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations.
If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to access job openings or apply for a job on this site as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by contacting Human Resources at or call 202-488-3300.

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