- See also stage clothes.
Costume design is the envisioning of
clothing and the overall appearance of a character or performer. Costume may refer to the style of dress particular to a nation, a class, or a period. In many cases, it may contribute to the fullness of the artistic, visual world which is unique to a particular theatrical or cinematic production. The most basic designs are produced to denote status, provide protection or modesty, or provide visual interest to a character.
Costumes may be for a
theater,
cinema, or musical performance but may not be limited to such. Costume design should not be confused with
costume coordination which merely involves altering existing clothing, although both create
stage clothes.