What is design? I feel that design conveys an emotion, an idea; it inspires and instills passion. I want my designs to communicate, whether it’s mine or the director’s concept. An audience member will get a clue about the play, character, or objectives. What is fueling the play? In my costume designs, I like to use color and silhouette to convey ideas of character, like socio-economic status, education, gender, and as well, time-period, or the psychological center of a character. My designs need to follow form follows function; the costumes must be usable and designed to aid the actor in their discoveries. I always enjoy when an actor relates to their clothes. They will get a huge grin on their face. It’s very satisfying to find that connection. I look at a play and find its emotional center. A show palette is chosen with the input of the design team. I like to use color as my number one communicator. Next, I look at silhouette. That determines the time. This influences the line and cut of a costume. I look to add layers, whether it’s jewelry, a hat, scarf, or vest. This is great for characters revealing themselves or for the actors to have good business. Texture is a wonderful addition to any costume; the choice of fabric says a lot about character. A satin compared to a tweed gives me knowledge about the character, sexy or stuffy? I create the final look with consideration of what the director wants, what the character needs, what the audience will feel all within the means of the budget. I find that I’m equally comfortable with little budget as I am with a much larger budget.