Frequently Asked Questions

The Costumer's Guild West Inc. is a community of costumers dedicated to promoting the art of costuming and needlework in all forms. Through Costume College®, we present an educational forum where members can learn about the history of clothing, expressing their imagination in costuming, and creating links to the past, present, and future in the fashion arts.

When was the Costumer's Guild West formed? 1987

Who started it? A lot of costumers from the science fiction community.

When was the first Costume College? 1994

Where was it?

Who are some of the past Deans? Janet Wilson Anderson, Natalie Meyer, Laura Rico, Lana Bailey, Robin Pavlosky, Darla Kruger, Maegen Hensley, Jess Miller

What were some of the themes of past Costume Colleges?

• The Middle Ages
• The Edwardian Age
• The Bustle Era
• The Jazz Age (2006)
• Crinolines 1840 - 1860 (2007)
• The Regency (2008)
• The 18th century (2009)

What is the ICG (International Costumers Guild)?

The International Costumers' Guild was formed in 1985 in the wake of CostumeCon 3, when groups of costuming aficionados formed and subsequently united in a common cause. (quoted from the ICG website)

Is the CGW affiliated with the ICG? We used to be, but are no longer, except as equally dedicated costume-focused groups of enthusiasts.

Want to know more? Participate in the "Wheel of Random Knowledge," at the Information Desk at Costume College®.