Research costume for a production

URN: SKSQ2
Business Sectors (Suites): Costume for Film, TV and Theatre Productions
Developed by: ScreenSkills
Approved on: 30 Mar 2021

Overview

This standard is about your ability to research costume in relation to genre, history and technical aspects, together with an overall knowledge of costume which will inform professional practice.

This may involve accessing reliable sources of information, developing an overall awareness of costume history, identifying costume construction techniques and the fabrics and materials used to create different styles.

This standard may be applicable to costume designers, supervisors, costume assistants, costume standby's and wardrobe assistants.


Performance criteria

You must be able to:

  1. interpret the design brief and confirm the genre or historical period of the production
  2. select effective research strategies to source costume information
  3. evaluate the credibility of information gathered and ensure research scope    is sufficiently broad
  4. establish key costume trends in relation to the genre or historical period of the production
  5. evaluate the initial costume design concept against historical accuracy, function, purpose and the design brief
  6. highlight amendments that will maintain historical accuracy and adhere to common perceptions of that period
  7. identify key garment construction techniques in relation to the genre or historical period of the production
  8. identify materials and fabrics used in relation to the genre or historical period of the production
  9. follow he productions confidentiality rules and requirements
  10. communicate clearly with the production team and all relevant department or individuals
  11. follow health and safety legislation and guidelines at all times

Knowledge and Understanding

You need to know and understand:

  1. key costume looks and characteristics through the ages
  2. costume trends across different genres and historical periods
  3. research sources, methodologies and options
  4. historical accuracy related to the production period/ genre
  5. feasible traditional and modern construction techniques and methods of producing costumes
  6. budgets, human resources and equipment required to produce costumes
  7. design briefs, scripts and costume breakdowns
  8. the materials and components used to create different styles
  9.  the productions confidentiality rules and requirements
  10. all personnel involved in the production and the communication protocol

Scope/range


Scope Performance


Scope Knowledge


Values


Behaviours


Skills


Glossary


Links To Other NOS


External Links


Version Number

3

Indicative Review Date

30 Mar 2026

Validity

Current

Status

Original

Originating Organisation

ScreenSkills

Original URN

SKSQ8

Relevant Occupations

Arts, Media and Publishing, Associate Professionals and Technical Occupations, Crafts, Creative Arts and Design, Media and Communication, Media Associate Professionals

SOC Code

3422

Keywords

costume; wardrobe; research; history; production; historical; technical; design; information; period; accuracy; resources; facilities; garment; sample