Costume Design

Costume designers help bring characters to life by creating the clothes that actors in theater, television, and film wear.  As costume is an extension of the overall interpretation of a character, costume design is a wonderful extension of literary interpretation.

Alumna Sabrina Guillaume (2013) is currently a costume design intern at the Public Theater and a stitcher at the Brooklyn College costume shop.

Sabrina GuillaumeWhat is your job?

Currently I am a costume design intern at The Public Theater and I am a sticher at the Brooklyn College costume shop.

What is the broader field of industry in which this work exists? 

Film and stage

What, in general, do you do as part of this job? 

I assist the costume designers in costuming actors for shows whether it’s hemming a skirt, being present in fittings, or shopping.

What are the pros and cons of this kind of job?

PROS: I’m learning and experiencing things I will encounter in my present and future.

CONS: It’s challenging to balance work and school.

What skills did you learn as an English major that you use in this job? 

As a costume designer you really have to bring the characters to life by dressing the actors. Coming from an English major, the analytical skills that I’ve developed have assisted me in making more accurate and intriguing design concepts.

How have you learned to do this job?

With a Theatre Arts minor I gained some preliminary skills in my industry. But making the decision to continue my education in Design and Technical Production at Brooklyn College for theater has been an exceptional learning experience.

How did you get this job? 

I was given interview opportunities due to the connections of my professors.

For current students interested in this line of work, do you have any recommendations on what they can do now to start directing their career path?

Network and get to know people who work in this industry. It may seem to be huge but it’s actually quite small. Always find new learning opportunities whether it’s an internship or seeing a new show. Continue to be willing to receive new information.