On June 13th, New York Women in Film & Television held their annual “Designing Women” event to celebrate and recognize women working in costume design, hairstyling and makeup in film, television, and digital media. This event is not only spectacular for spotlighting women in the film and television industry, but also those who work behind the scenes—often overlooked, but crucial to the final product.
Costume designer Sarah Edwards, who worked on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows, Last Days of Disco, and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, was honored that night. When presented her award, she spoke about the minute details that went into every costume in Walter Mitty, even the slight variations between Walter’s clothes and the clothes of his alter ego—a slightly darker shirt, tighter pants—the shift may not even be recognizable, but creates a character shift necessary for the plot’s structure.
Rose Chatterton, the hair stylist of Shades of Blue, The Knick, and It’s Complicated, was presented an award. When speaking to Chatterton about the most challenging thing in her field, she said that it’s definitely the weather. If it’s cold and windy, but the shot needs it to be warm and tranquil, Chatterton has to compensate and be constantly vigilant for any quick fixes.
Anita Gibson, makeup artist extraordinaire, was honored that night, highlighting her work in Confirmation, Madea’s Big Happy Family, Power, and Love & Basketball. Anita Gibson spoke about the lack of options and make up available for black women and the obstacles that has created for her work. Despite this, she has been developing some beautiful looks throughout her career.
The Variety Ensemble Award went to the costume, makeup, and hair design team from The Affair. This crew—headed by costume designer, Caroline Duncan; makeup artist, Sheri Kornhaber; and hair stylist, Diana Sikes—works meticulously to create the shows different visions, as the characters each have their own perspectives and memories that showcase their distinct, yet, personal truths. This work is done through changing each character’s look, depending on whose memory it is narrated from; this is difficult and demanding work, but the results give such an added dimension to the show.
We are so happy to praise these women for their outstanding work and can’t wait until next year’s event!
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