costumi

Costumi is the Italian term for costumes—the clothing worn by performers to portray characters and establish time, place, and social context. In theatre, film, television, dance, and cultural festivals, costumi design encompasses both the garments themselves and the wardrobe department responsible for managing, constructing, and maintaining them.

Design and production: A costumi designer researches period and style, collaborates with directors and researchers, and creates sketches or renderings. Patterns are created or adapted, fabrics chosen, and garments constructed by cutters, tailors, and seamstresses. The process includes fittings, adjustments, aging, and accessories to ensure consistency and smooth changes between scenes.

Types and applications: Historical or period costumes aim to reflect specific eras; contemporary costumi depict modern looks; fantasy, sci-fi, and ceremonial costumes address non-naturalistic needs; traditional or folk costumes may reflect regional or cultural identities and are used in festivals and performances as well as in media productions.

Materials and care: Costumes use a range of fabrics (cotton, wool, silk, synthetics) and trims, with attention to durability and appearance under lighting. Maintenance includes cleaning, mending, and sometimes restoration. Storage and continuity are important for repeated performances.

History and influence: Costume traditions have evolved with theatre and fashion, from antiquity through Renaissance to modern cinema. The costumi department plays a crucial role in visual storytelling, aiding character differentiation, world-building, and audience immersion.