kostume

Kostume is clothing designed to represent a character, period, or identity beyond ordinary attire. The term covers outfits worn for performance, masquerade, ceremonial events, and entertainment, as well as clothing used to portray fictional or historical figures in media and culture.

Common categories include theatrical costumes, film and television wardrobe, cosplay outfits inspired by comics or anime, traditional or ceremonial dress, and fashion-forward costumes for parties or festivals. Designers tailor costumes to fit specific roles, settings, and performance requirements, while allowing freedom of movement.

Design and construction involve concept development, fabric selection, patterning, sewing, and fittings. Accessories, props, makeup, and wigs complete the look. Considerations include durability, care, safety, comfort, and how the costume will appear on stage or on camera under lighting.

Historically, kostumes grew from ritual dress and stagecraft in ancient and classical theatre and evolved through opera, cinema, and television. In contemporary culture, cosplay and costume history research drive reinterpretation and preservation. Ethical concerns include cultural respect and copyright or licensing when recreating trademarked characters.

Care and storage strategies vary by material but common practices include gentle cleaning, protective storage, and professional restoration for museum pieces. Kostume remains a broad category that intersects performance, culture, and identity, reflecting how people present themselves in social and artistic contexts.