13.3 Fittings and Actor Relationships

Fittings are crucial for perfecting costumes and building trust with actors. They involve careful measurements, alterations, and ensuring comfort while maintaining the design vision. Proper etiquette and communication are key to successful fittings and positive actor relationships.

Collaborating with actors goes beyond fittings. Costume designers must foster open communication, respect boundaries, and incorporate actor input. This partnership enhances character development and ensures costumes support the performance while maintaining professionalism throughout the production process.

Fittings and Alterations

Fitting Process and Etiquette

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• Conduct fittings in a private, well-lit space with full-length mirrors
• Explain the fitting process to actors before beginning
• Maintain a professional demeanor throughout the fitting
• Address actors by their preferred names and pronouns
• Allow actors to change in privacy, providing robes or cover-ups as needed
• Communicate clearly about any adjustments or alterations being made
• Listen attentively to actor concerns or feedback about the costume
• Document all fitting notes and measurements for future reference
• Schedule follow-up fittings as necessary to ensure proper fit

Alterations and Costume Adjustments

• Identify areas requiring alterations during the fitting process
• Mark adjustments directly on the garment using pins, chalk, or tape
• Consider both aesthetic and functional aspects when making alterations
• Prioritize alterations based on importance and time constraints
• Utilize various alteration techniques (taking in seams, hemming, adjusting closures)
• Ensure alterations maintain the integrity of the costume design
• Collaborate with the costume shop to execute alterations efficiently
• Perform final checks after alterations to confirm proper fit and appearance

Actor Comfort and Mobility

• Prioritize actor comfort without compromising the costume design
• Assess range of motion in costumes, especially for physically demanding roles
• Address any chafing, rubbing, or pressure points (adding padding, adjusting seams)
• Consider breathability and temperature regulation in costume materials
• Incorporate stretch fabrics or gussets to improve mobility when necessary
• Test costumes with props or set pieces to ensure compatibility
• Make accommodations for quick changes or special effects as needed
• Provide undergarments or foundation pieces that enhance comfort and support
• Educate actors on proper ways to wear and care for their costumes

Actor Relationships

Building Trust and Communication

• Establish open lines of communication with actors from the first meeting
• Respect actors' personal boundaries and comfort levels during fittings
• Demonstrate expertise and professionalism to build confidence in your work
• Actively listen to actors' concerns and ideas about their costumes
• Collaborate with actors to find solutions that meet both design and performance needs
• Maintain a positive and supportive attitude throughout the production process
• Provide clear instructions on costume use, maintenance, and any special requirements
• Be available for questions or adjustments as rehearsals and performances progress
• Foster a team-oriented environment that values each actor's contribution to the production

Character Development Through Costume

• Discuss character interpretation and background with actors during fittings
• Explain how costume choices reflect character traits, status, or story arc
• Incorporate actor input on how the costume affects their character portrayal
• Adjust costume elements to support the actor's physical characterization (posture, movement)
• Consider how costumes evolve throughout the production to reflect character growth
• Provide historical or cultural context for costume choices when relevant
• Experiment with different costume options to find the best fit for the character and actor
• Use costume accessories (jewelry, hats, gloves) to enhance character development
• Collaborate with actors on how to use costumes effectively in performance (removing a coat, adjusting a tie)

Professionalism and Confidentiality

• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding actors' personal information and measurements
• Refrain from discussing fitting details or body-related comments with others
• Handle sensitive costume situations (nudity, revealing outfits) with utmost discretion
• Adhere to union regulations and production guidelines in all interactions
• Respect the hierarchical structure of the production team
• Maintain a neutral stance in any interpersonal conflicts within the cast or crew
• Document all costume-related decisions and changes for transparency
• Obtain proper permissions before sharing any behind-the-scenes content or photos
• Uphold the reputation of the costume department and production as a whole