Costume Fitting – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Acting Glossary Terms

What is a Costume Fitting?

A costume fitting is a crucial part of the production process in the world of theater, film, television, and other forms of entertainment. It is a meeting between the costume designer, actors, and sometimes the director, where the actors try on the costumes that have been designed for their characters. The purpose of a costume fitting is to ensure that the costumes fit properly, are comfortable to wear, and accurately reflect the character’s personality and style.

When is a Costume Fitting Scheduled?

A costume fitting is typically scheduled during pre-production, after the costumes have been designed and constructed. The timing of the fitting can vary depending on the production schedule, but it is usually scheduled a few weeks before filming or opening night. This allows enough time for any necessary alterations to be made to the costumes before they are needed on set or on stage.

Who is Involved in a Costume Fitting?

The key players involved in a costume fitting are the costume designer, the actors, and sometimes the director. The costume designer is responsible for creating the costumes based on the character descriptions provided in the script. The actors are essential in the fitting process as they will be wearing the costumes and need to feel comfortable and confident in them. The director may also be present to ensure that the costumes align with the overall vision of the production.

How Does a Costume Fitting Work?

During a costume fitting, the actors will try on the costumes that have been prepared for their characters. The costume designer will assess the fit, comfort, and overall look of the costumes on the actors. Any necessary alterations will be noted, and the costumes may be pinned or marked for adjustments. The actors may also be asked to move and perform basic actions in the costumes to ensure that they allow for freedom of movement and do not restrict the actor’s performance.

What Should Actors Bring to a Costume Fitting?

Actors should come prepared to a costume fitting by bringing any undergarments or shoes that they will be wearing with the costumes. It is also helpful for actors to bring any specific requests or preferences they may have regarding the costumes, such as allergies to certain fabrics or colors they prefer to avoid. Additionally, actors should be prepared to provide feedback on the fit and comfort of the costumes during the fitting process.

What Happens After a Costume Fitting?

After a costume fitting, the costume designer will make any necessary alterations to the costumes based on the feedback received from the actors. Once the alterations are complete, the costumes will be finalized and prepared for use in the production. Actors may have additional fittings as the production progresses to ensure that the costumes continue to fit properly and meet the needs of the performance. Ultimately, a successful costume fitting is essential in bringing the characters to life and enhancing the overall production.