Angels Costumes – Textiles Trip

Written by Georgie L, Year 10

On Tuesday the 14 January, the Year 10 and A Level students went to Angels Costumes, a costume house in Hendon London. Upon entering we were greeted by an array of costumes spanning across various eras and genres. From Edwardian gowns and medieval armour to accessories like dancers’ headwear, hats and jewellery and let’s not forget the pantomime horse and Santa Claus outfits. It was truly an experience to remember! We saw theatrical outfits as well as ones used in films, and TV productions; It was fascinating to learn about the stories behind these costumes and the characters they have embodied. We were lucky enough to go into some of the work rooms that showed what happens behind the scenes and the processes and job roles involved. We looked at the mending room and the pattern cutting room where costumes were being made, these rooms are so secret that we couldn’t take any photos of the work that was being carried out. The staff were truly kind and shared their own insights into the journey costumes go through from a concept idea to fit sessions, mock ups, and final fits of a full costume.

The company also has designers that would come in and choose garments to get inspired by such as a 18th century christening robe that helped inspire the design for a Burberry coat with smocking.

Every costume and garment told its own story with every seam and stitch carefully sewn and developed so that it works for the person wearing it. Beyond the creation of these outfits we also learnt about the ongoing maintenance a costume requires during a production or film to ensure continuity and how they are kept in pristine condition. This trip was a remarkable experience that left us inspired to explore the world of Textiles in new and exciting ways.

 


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