Costume College: A Small Conference with a Big Reach

Annual gathering devoted to lectures and workshops on costuming techniques draws participants from around the world.

Costumer’s Guild West, Inc. presents its annual conference dedicated to advancing education on a wide variety of costuming styles and techniques. The conference takes place Thursday, July 18th through Sunday, July 21st, at the Sheraton Gateway LAX in Los Angeles, with optional tours to the downtown Fashion  District and a Hollywood costume shop. The lectures and workshops provide in-person instruction and hands-on practice for costume hobbyists and professionals alike, and the evening events are opportunities for costumers to create and strengthen existing community.

This year’s conference has a theme of “Costumes of Stage and Screen” and includes presentations on that theme along with displays of professional and amateur reproductions of screen-worn items. Special guests include prominent Seattle cosplayer Anna He and longtime costume collections manager Beth Grover.

The event aims to foster knowledge exchanges, community building, and opportunities for costumers at all levels to show off their work and meet others who share their passion. 

“Costume College stands out in the world of costuming conventions by uniquely prioritizing education and offering unparalleled workshops and learning experiences.  As the only event of its kind, Costume College attracts a global audience eager to enhance their skills and knowledge, while showing off their unique costuming builds.”

— Kristen Darville Foggie, Costumer’s Guild West, Inc. President

On-site registration is available.  Rates are $125 for a one-day pass, $250 for the full weekend, and $75/$195 for students (college ID required).

To register for Costume College or to learn more, visit www.costumecollege.net

Costumer’s Guild West, Inc. (CGW) is a 501(c)(3), non-profit, volunteer-operated, educational organization dedicated to the art of costuming. CGW welcomes all levels and styles of costumers, whether professional or hobbyist; novice, or master. CGW is here to encourage, nurture, and educate those who are creating and researching costuming arts including but not exclusive to historical dress, cosplay, and entertainment costuming, encompassed in a safe and supportive environment.