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. Our purpose is to bring hobbyist and
professional costumers from around the world together, and to foster, through
its chapters, local educational and social costume events.
We welcome everyone with an interest in the art of
costuming - from concept to assembly to display and all stages in between - in
all areas of costume. Our members include historic reenactors, professional,
educational and community theatrical costumers, science fiction fans,renaissance
festival participants, and a vast array of others who are interested in the
making, wearing and display of costume.
The ICG exists on two levels; first, as an affiliated
group of chapters across North America and Australia. Area chapters meet on a
regular basis, trading tips, skills and ideas among members. Most chapters also
produce newsletters several times a year, providing out-of-town members with a
chance to contribute and share their own interests and ideas.
On the International level, the ICG provides advice
and expertise on a larger scale. Our mailing list is an excellent general
resource, open to anyone with an interest in costuming. While the email
discussion list is sponsored and managed by the ICG, anyone with an interest in
costuming is welcome to sign up and join in the discussion.
The ICG Newsletter, a new publication, is
provided to all members of the ICG as part of the annual membership dues.
The ICG also maintains the Pat and Peggy Kennedy
Memorial Library, a large collection of photos, videos and costume-related
materials from the nearly seven-decade history of Science Fiction fan-costuming.
Each year members of the ICG converge at Costume-Con,
the annual convention of costume hobbyists and professionals. Held at a
different site each year, Costume-Con is an exciting time to see what fellow
costumers are working on, trade tips and tricks on design and construction, and
in general celebrate the wide world of costuming with fellow aficionados.
We welcome you to our official website, invite you to
poke around, and hope we’ve kindled your interest in joining our community!