Top 10 Questions for Wardrobe Custodian Interview

1. How do you make sure that all costumes are properly preserved and maintained?

• Inspect costumes regularly for any signs of damage or wear.
• Handle costumes with care and use appropriate storage methods to prevent fading, shrinkage, or other damage.
• Clean and repair costumes as necessary.
• Keep costumes in a climate-controlled environment to prevent damage from heat, humidity, or pests.
• Document any repairs or alterations made to costumes.

2. What steps do you take to ensure that costumes are always available when needed?

Inventory and Organization

• Maintain an accurate and up-to-date inventory of all costumes.
• Organize costumes in a way that makes them easy to find and access.

Scheduling and Coordination

• Work with production teams to determine costume needs and schedules.
• Coordinate with other departments to ensure that costumes are available for rehearsals, performances, and other events.

3. How do you manage the sourcing and procurement of costumes and accessories?

• Research and identify potential suppliers for costumes and accessories.
• Negotiate prices and delivery times with suppliers.
• Order and track costumes and accessories to ensure timely delivery.
• Inspect costumes and accessories upon receipt to ensure quality.

4. How do you handle costume fittings and ensure the proper fit for performers?

• Schedule costume fittings with performers.
• Assist performers in trying on costumes and make necessary adjustments.
• Document any alterations or modifications made to costumes.
• Ensure that costumes fit properly and comfortably.

5. How do you work with production teams and directors to develop and implement costume designs?

• Attend production meetings to discuss costume designs.
• Collaborate with directors to interpret costume concepts and create sketches.
• Source materials and fabrics based on design specifications.
• Supervise the construction and fitting of costumes.

6. How do you handle costume emergencies and make repairs on short notice?

• Be prepared for costume emergencies by having a repair kit on hand.
• Quickly assess the damage and determine the best course of action.
• Make repairs using appropriate techniques and materials.
• Prioritize repairs based on the severity of the damage.

7. How do you ensure the cleanliness and hygiene of costumes?

• Establish a regular cleaning schedule for costumes.
• Use appropriate cleaning methods and detergents for different types of fabrics.
• Inspect costumes after cleaning to ensure that they are free of stains or damage.
• Store costumes in a clean and dry environment.

8. How do you work as part of a team and collaborate with other members of the production crew?

• Communicate effectively with other crew members.
• Support other departments as needed.
• Contribute to a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Respect the roles and responsibilities of other crew members.

9. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in costume design?

• Attend industry events and workshops.
• Read industry publications and websites.
• Follow costume designers and artists on social media.
• Experiment with new materials and techniques.

10. What qualities and skills are essential for success as a Wardrobe Custodian?

• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong organizational and inventory management skills.
• Basic knowledge of costume design and construction.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Wardrobe Custodians are responsible for maintaining and managing the wardrobe and costumes for a theatre, film, or other production. Their key responsibilities include:

1. Maintaining and Organizing the Wardrobe

Wardrobe Custodians are responsible for keeping the wardrobe clean, organized, and in good condition. This includes:

• Storing costumes and accessories in a climate-controlled environment
• Inspecting costumes for damage and making repairs as needed
• Cleaning and pressing costumes
• Organizing costumes by size, style, and character

2. Assisting with Costume Design and Fittings

Wardrobe Custodians may assist with costume design and fittings by providing input on fabric selection, color combinations, and overall style. They also assist with fittings by ensuring that costumes fit properly and are comfortable for the actors.

• Working with costume designers to select fabrics and accessories
• Assisting with costume fittings to ensure a proper fit
• Making alterations to costumes as needed
• Maintaining a record of costume changes and repairs

3. Preparing Costumes for Performances

Wardrobe Custodians are responsible for preparing costumes for performances by ensuring that they are clean, pressed, and ready to wear. They also assist with quick changes during performances.

• Preparing costumes for performances by steaming, pressing, and making final adjustments
• Assisting with quick changes during performances
• Troubleshooting any costume issues that may arise during performances

4. Inventory Management

Wardrobe Custodians are responsible for maintaining an inventory of all costumes and accessories. They track the location of each item and ensure that the inventory is accurate and up-to-date.

• Maintaining an inventory of all costumes and accessories
• Tracking the location of each item
• Ensuring that the inventory is accurate and up-to-date
• Ordering new costumes and accessories as needed

To ace an interview for a Wardrobe Custodian position, it is important to highlight your skills and experience in the following areas:

1. Knowledge of Wardrobe Management

Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of wardrobe management best practices, including storage, organization, and inventory management. You should also be familiar with different types of fabrics and their care instructions.

• Example Outline for this:

  In my previous role as a Wardrobe Custodian at [company name], I was responsible for managing a wardrobe of over 5,000 costumes. I developed a comprehensive inventory system that tracked the location of every item and ensured that it was properly stored and maintained.

2. Experience in Costume Design and Fittings

If you have any experience in costume design or fittings, be sure to highlight this in your interview. Discuss your ability to work with costume designers and actors to create and fit costumes that meet the needs of the production.

• Example Outline for this:

  As a Wardrobe Custodian at [company name], I assisted with the costume design and fitting process for several productions. I worked closely with the costume designer to select fabrics and accessories and to ensure that the costumes fit properly and were comfortable for the actors.

3. Ability to Work Independently and as Part of a Team

Wardrobe Custodians often work independently, but they must also be able to work effectively as part of a team. Be prepared to discuss your experience working in both of these environments.

• Example Outline for this:

  In my previous role, I was responsible for managing the wardrobe independently. However, I also worked closely with the costume designer, actors, and other members of the production team to ensure that the costumes met the needs of the production.

4. Strong Organizational Skills

Wardrobe Custodians must be highly organized in order to keep track of the large number of costumes and accessories in their care. Be prepared to discuss your organizational skills and how you would use them to manage a wardrobe.

• Example Outline for this:

  I am a highly organized individual with a strong attention to detail. In my previous role, I developed a comprehensive inventory system that allowed me to track the location of every item in the wardrobe. I also created a system for storing and maintaining costumes that ensured they were always clean and ready to use.