The CDG’s participation in San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) has evolved with the event. Costume designers, assistant costume designers, illustrators, and concept artists play a unique and pivotal role in imagining the garments which define a character. We work hand in glove with our sister union the Motion Picture Costumers (Local 705), the artisans responsible for constructing the pieces. Comic-Con is an opportunity for the CDG members to connect directly with fans through our shared enthusiasm for costume and character.
Dates confirmed for Comic-Con International: San Diego:
July 20-23, 2023. Visit Comic-Con for more information
SDCC offers fans the chance to hear directly from the costume teams behind their favorite movies and TV shows. Designers, ACDs, and illustrators discuss their process, inspiration, and production.
Thursday // July 20 // 12:00pm-1:00pm
The Power of Costume: How Designers Inspire the World
From hits like Tim Burton’s series Wednesday and Disney’s recent film, The Little Mermaid, to beloved classics like Edward Scissorhands and Alice in Wonderland, Colleen Atwood’s designs have had a huge impact on popular culture, fashion, and cosplay. Her work has spanned over four decades of breathtaking artistry. A four-time Academy Award-winning designer, Atwood and her team: Jose Fernandez (Assistant Costume Designer), and Christian Cordella (Costume Concept Artist) discuss how they work together to create the characters you can’t forget. Moderated by Phillip Boutté of 9B Collective Studio. Room: 29AB
Saturday // July 22 // 4:30pm-5:30pm
From Concept to Reality: How Costume Design Helped Shape The Second Age of Middle-earth
We explore the fascinating and whimsical process of costume designer Kate Hawley, known for her work on Prime Video’s The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. Learn firsthand about how she designed over 2,000 costumes for the series’ inaugural season and the craftsmanship that went into creating the lavish, unforgettable Second Age of Middle-earth. Kate’s iconic work has also been seen in such visually spectacular films as Guillermo Del Toro’s Crimson Peak and Warner Brother’s Suicide Squad. Moderated by Spencer Williams from The Art of Costume Blogcast. Room: 10
Audiences have many ways to engage with the media from simply watching film and TV shows to emulating the characters. Cosplay has become an important form of entertainment and self-expression and our members are delighted to see their design have a powerful life of its own beyond the screen. Every year, our designers keep a lookout for outstanding amateur costuming and cosplay, handing out our coveted blue rosettes to recognize the best examples. Winners are shared on CDG social media.
The CDG is proud to serve as official judges for SDCC’s annual talent show, the Comic-Con Masquerade. This prestigious amateur costume competition has competitors from all around the world competing with unique creations. We are also delighted to give an award from our Guild for the costumes we find the most spectacular.
– Saturday 7/22.
– ISW will be giving $500 for the winner of the Ball
Visit our booth at space 4534, located near Disney Studios. Our team is excited to showcase a Stillsuit from the movie Dune, designed by the talented Jacqueline West and Robert Morgan. We look forward to showcasing this masterpiece and highlighting its distinct features.
CDG members are welcome to relax and network at our lounge. Located at a nearby hotel, it provides a quiet space for members to conduct media interviews or to take a moment away from the bustle of the show floor.
If you are interested in partnering with us at SDCC, please contact us at cdgcomiccon@gmail.com.