Looking for a costume designer who can turn your creative vision into reality? These five US-based professionals offer a range of styles and services, from bespoke builds to full-scale production design.
The Costume Design Landscape in 2026
Costume design is a vibrant field that spans theater, film, television, and live events. In 2026, designers are blending traditional craftsmanship with digital tools, and many are expanding their services to include consultations and custom builds for individual clients. Whether you're a producer, director, or performer, finding the right designer means looking for someone who understands your story and can deliver within your budget and timeline. The designers below represent a cross-section of the industry, from seasoned professionals with Broadway credits to boutique studios and emerging talents.
How We Evaluated These Designers
We assessed each designer based on service scope, portfolio depth, pricing clarity, and their ability to cater to different client needs. We looked for clear communication, a distinct artistic voice, and evidence of successful projects. Each designer brings something unique to the table, and our goal is to help you match with the right one for your specific project.
Here's a quick snapshot of the five costume designers we're featuring, with their key strengths and what they're best for.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| JC Studios | Costume Designer | High-profile theater productions and clients seeking a seasoned professional |
| Home | gracesantadesign | Clients seeking a personal, boutique costume design experience |
| Imaginarium Costume Design | Bespoke, hand-crafted costumes and clients who value artisanal quality |
| Whitney Locher Costume Design | Clients who prefer a straightforward portfolio review and direct contact |
| Shana Targosz Costume Design | Those seeking inspiration or a designer with a diverse portfolio across genres |
The Designers in Detail
#1 JC Studios | Costume Designer
A screenshot of the JC Studios | Costume Designer website.
Jeannette Christensen, the force behind JC Studios, is a Baltimore-based designer with an impressive resume, including the Broadway national tour of On Your Feet! and a Helen Hayes Award. Her services are clearly outlined on her site, offering full-service design, custom costume builds, and consultations. You'll appreciate her collaborative approach, as she emphasizes working with the creative team to tailor designs to your unique vision. If you're looking for a designer with high-level experience and a structured service menu, this is a strong choice. Her portfolio showcases a range of work, from regional theater to national tours, giving you confidence in her versatility.
#2 Home | gracesantadesign
A screenshot of the Home | gracesantadesign website.
Ann Young, the owner of Grace Santana Design, is a costume designer whose website is minimal but hints at a personal, boutique approach. While her online presence is sparse, her title 'Costume Designer' suggests she creates costumes for theater, film, or events. If you're seeking a designer who offers a more intimate, one-on-one experience, Ann might be your match. Her site is built on Wix, which indicates a small, independent business that values simplicity. You'll want to reach out directly to discuss your project, as her portfolio isn't fully displayed online. For those who prefer a hands-on, personal touch, this could be a hidden gem.
#3 Imaginarium Costume Design
A screenshot of the Imaginarium Costume Design website.
Imaginarium is a bespoke costume studio that has been crafting one-of-a-kind pieces since 2016. With over twenty years of experience in costume for stage and screen, the founder brings a wealth of knowledge to every project. They offer custom services for stage, screen, and private clients, and also have an online shop for those looking for ready-made pieces. Their website is rich with galleries, including custom costume and screen galleries, giving you a clear sense of their style and craftsmanship. If you're looking for hand-made, exquisitely crafted costumes with a personal touch, this studio is worth exploring. They also provide career services for aspiring costume professionals, which is a unique bonus.
#4 Whitney Locher Costume Design
A screenshot of the Whitney Locher Costume Design website.
Whitney Locher's website is clean and straightforward, focusing on her portfolio, sketches, and press. While the site is minimal, it suggests a designer who lets her work speak for itself. You'll find sections for portfolio and sketches, which likely showcase her design process and finished pieces. Her resume and contact information are readily available, making it easy to reach out for inquiries. If you're looking for a designer who presents a professional, no-frills online presence, Whitney could be a good fit. The lack of detailed service descriptions means you'll need to contact her directly to discuss your needs.
#5 Shana Targosz Costume Design
A screenshot of the Shana Targosz Costume Design website.
Shana Targosz is a former costume designer for stage and screen, now a published writer, but her portfolio remains a treasure trove of experience. Her site features a sampling of operas, stage plays, television shows, and movies she designed, including work on Disney's The Suite Life of Zack and Cody. She has been nominated for Best Costume Design multiple times, showcasing her talent and recognition in the industry. If you're looking for a designer with a diverse portfolio that spans from opera to TV sitcoms, Shana's work is worth studying. While she may not be taking on new costume design clients, her portfolio serves as inspiration and a benchmark for quality. For those seeking a designer with a broad range of experience, her work is a great reference point.
How to Choose the Right Costume Designer for You
Start by defining the scope of your project: is it a full-scale production, a single custom costume, or a consultation? Look for a designer whose portfolio aligns with your genre and style, whether that's theater, film, or events. Consider your budget and timeline, and reach out to designers who offer services that match your needs. Don't hesitate to ask for references or examples of similar work. Finally, trust your instincts—you want a designer who communicates well and understands your vision.
Streamlining Your Designer Search
To make your search more efficient, you can use online platforms like The Costume Designer's Guild directory or social media to shortlist candidates. Set up alerts for new portfolio updates or use project management tools to track your communications. Once you've narrowed down your list, schedule initial consultations to discuss your project in detail. This systematic approach saves time and ensures you find the right fit.
Bringing Your Vision to Life
Each of these costume designers brings a unique set of skills and experiences to the table. Whether you need a seasoned professional for a Broadway-level production or a boutique studio for a custom piece, there's a designer here for you. Take the time to review their portfolios and reach out to those who resonate with your project. The right costume designer can transform your characters and elevate your production to new heights.