Wardrobe Supervisor
A Wardrobe Supervisor is a key person who manages all clothing and costumes for film, television, or theater productions. They are like project managers for everything clothing-related on set. Their job involves organizing costumes, maintaining continuity (making sure actors wear the right outfits in the right scenes), managing the wardrobe team, and working closely with costume designers. They handle both creative aspects (helping achieve the right look) and practical matters (cleaning, repairs, storage). Think of them as the bridge between the costume designer's creative vision and the day-to-day reality of keeping track of and maintaining all costumes during production.
Examples in Resumes
Led costume organization and maintenance as Wardrobe Supervisor for major feature film production
Managed team of 5 assistants as Wardrobe Supervisor on multi-season television series
Coordinated costume continuity as Wardrobe Supervisor across 120 shooting days
Served as Costume Supervisor for Broadway production with 50+ costume changes
Typical job title: "Wardrobe Supervisors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Wardrobe Supervisors
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where a lead actor's costume is damaged right before an important scene?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate crisis management skills, knowledge of quick fixes vs. long-term solutions, and ability to make fast decisions while maintaining production schedule. Should mention backup costume policies and preventive measures.
Q: How do you manage costume continuity across scenes that are shot out of sequence?
Expected Answer: Should explain their system for tracking costumes through photos, detailed notes, and digital organization. Should mention collaboration with script supervisors and importance of maintaining consistent look.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you organize and track multiple costume changes for a large cast?
Expected Answer: Should describe systems for labeling, organizing by scene/character, and managing quick changes. Should mention documentation methods and team coordination.
Q: What's your process for breaking down a script for costume needs?
Expected Answer: Should explain how they identify costume requirements, create change lists, and plan for multiples of same costume when needed. Should mention budget considerations.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic items you would include in an on-set emergency kit?
Expected Answer: Should list essential repair items like sewing kit, safety pins, tape, spare buttons, and cleaning supplies. Shows basic preparation knowledge.
Q: How do you maintain costumes during a production?
Expected Answer: Should discuss cleaning procedures, storage methods, daily checks for damage, and basic repair skills. Shows understanding of costume care basics.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic costume maintenance and repairs
- Organizing and tracking costumes
- Following continuity notes
- Assisting with costume changes
Mid (2-5 years)
- Managing small wardrobe teams
- Budget tracking
- Costume breakdown and planning
- Coordinating with other departments
Senior (5+ years)
- Full wardrobe department management
- Complex production coordination
- Team leadership
- Emergency problem-solving
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with costume tracking systems
- Poor organizational skills
- Lack of understanding about production schedules
- No knowledge of proper costume care techniques
- Unable to work under pressure or tight deadlines
Related Terms
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