costume-designer/references/tasks.md

Tasks & work activities — costume designer

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 27-1022.00 (Fashion Designers) — manual nearest-occupation mapping via ISCO group 2163; the official ESCO crosswalk has no entry for this ESCO occupation.

Task statements

• [Core] Direct and coordinate workers involved in drawing and cutting patterns and constructing samples or finished garments.
• [Core] Examine sample garments on and off models, modifying designs to achieve desired effects.
• [Core] Sketch rough and detailed drawings of apparel or accessories, and write specifications such as color schemes, construction, material types, and accessory requirements.
• [Core] Confer with sales and management executives or with clients to discuss design ideas.
• [Core] Identify target markets for designs, looking at factors such as age, gender, and socioeconomic status.
• [Core] Attend fashion shows and review garment magazines and manuals to gather information about fashion trends and consumer preferences.
• [Core] Select materials and production techniques to be used for products.
• [Core] Provide sample garments to agents and sales representatives, and arrange for showings of sample garments at sales meetings or fashion shows.
• [Core] Adapt other designers' ideas for the mass market.
• [Core] Purchase new or used clothing and accessory items as needed to complete designs.
• [Core] Visit textile showrooms to keep up-to-date on the latest fabrics.
• [Core] Collaborate with other designers to coordinate special products and designs.
• [Supplemental] Design custom clothing and accessories for individuals, retailers, or theatrical, television, or film productions.
• [Supplemental] Determine prices for styles.
• [Supplemental] Draw patterns for articles designed, cut patterns, and cut material according to patterns, using measuring instruments and scissors.
• [Supplemental] Develop a group of products or accessories, and market them through venues such as boutiques or mail-order catalogs.
• [Supplemental] Read scripts and consult directors and other production staff to develop design concepts and plan productions.
• [Core] Test fabrics or oversee testing so that garment care labels can be created.
• [Supplemental] Sew together sections of material to form mockups or samples of garments or articles, using sewing equipment.
• [Supplemental] Research the styles and periods of clothing needed for film or theatrical productions.

Detailed work activities

• Build models, patterns, or templates.
• Calculate costs of goods or services.
• Collaborate with others to develop or refine designs.
• Conduct market research.
• Conduct research to inform art, designs, or other work.
• Coordinate design activities.
• Determine the value of goods or services.
• Develop artistic or design concepts for decoration, exhibition, or commercial purposes.
• Draw detailed or technical illustrations.
• Maintain inventories of materials, equipment, or products.
• Monitor current trends.
• Promote products, activities, or organizations.
• Select materials or props.
• Study scripts to determine project requirements.
• Test characteristics of materials or structures.
• Test materials, solutions, or samples.
• Write informational material.