Reel Works' Costume Design Training: Empowering Future Designers

Reel Works Launches Groundbreaking Costume Design Training Program

HBO’s “The Gilded Age” / Local USA 829, IATSE Costume Department Training–a collaborative effort between Warner Bros. Discovery, HBO, Reel Works, and Stockade Works–recently offered aspiring costume designers an immersive experience in period costume design. Warner Bros. Discovery and the Empire State Development Fund funded this program, enabling a comprehensive curriculum that blended various learning environments to provide a holistic view of the art and craft of costume design.

Expert-Led Workshops in Troy, New York

In Troy, New York, industry veterans Amit Gajwani and Katie Irish (Costume Designers; Local USA 829 members) shared their expertise through workshops focused on design processes, budgeting techniques, and costume design history and evolution. Their hands-on approach left a lasting impression on participants.

One student remarked, “I had been at a crossroads of where to go with my career, not sure I could ever make it in costume. This program showed me I absolutely could. I feel so inspired now and know I’m in the right place!"

Immersive On-Set Experience: Behind the Scenes of "The Gilded Age”

The program's highlights included a visit to Albany's costume rental shop, Daybreak, offering participants firsthand insight into professional costume rental operations and an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at HBO's "The Gilded Age" set and Costume Department, where students observed the balance between historical accuracy and modern appeal in period costume design.

Behind-the-scenes look at HBO's "The Gilded Age"

Participants visiting Daybreak

Classroom learning culminated in New York City's Garment District, with instructors Katie and Amit guiding students through their favorite shops. The tour was followed by an industry panel discussion featuring renowned costume designer Ruth E. Carter, whose Oscar-winning career and insights provided a fitting finale. It offered participants a glimpse into the film industry's highest echelons of costume design. 

The program concluded with trainees paired in groups of two, spending a day in “The Gilded Age” costume shop, where they gained comprehensive training on-set. This intimate experience, courtesy of Kasia Walicka Maimone, costume designer of “The Gilded Age” equips trainees with exclusive insight into the industry. 

A participant shared, “The shop day was incredible. I was blown away that Kasia [Walicka Maimone, costume designer for “The Gilded Age”] was willing to talk with us and bring in the ACDs [Assistant Costume Designers] to talk about their processes. The whole team from top to bottom was so generous with their time and information.”

Reel Works' Ongoing Support for Program Alumni

While the program has wrapped, Reel Works’ commitment to our alumni extends far beyond the initial training period. Graduates continue to receive ongoing support through various channels provided by Reel Works, Stockade Works, and Warner Bros. Discovery Access to Action.

A dedicated alumni network facilitates connections and job opportunities within the industry.

Program alumni, Porsche said, “I’ve never felt more supported in my life. Every day I receive a new email about upcoming initiatives or resources. It’s been an ongoing, validating process.” 

Porsche, PHOTOCREDIT: Pooja Patel 

This comprehensive training–combining classroom instruction, on-set observation, and real-world exploration–has equipped these aspiring designers with invaluable industry insights. Participants learned to balance historical accuracy with creative vision while navigating production constraints.

The program's success is already evident, with graduates securing impressive positions in high-profile productions. One graduate, Cydney, has joined the costume department of HBO’s "And Just Like That" Season 3 as a Production Assistant and another graduate is interviewing to join her, while another participant has secured a costume role on HBO’s "The Gilded Age" Season 3. As these talented individuals step into the world of costume design, bringing fresh perspectives to beloved shows, the future of the craft looks brighter than ever.