We were lucky to catch up with Isabelle Castro recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Isabelle, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
From a young age, growing up as the third youngest of four siblings and the youngest girl, I have always expressed myself. Whether I was being the loudest, the most stylish, or the one trying to make everyone laugh the hardest, I was always outgoing. I am grateful I grew up in such a supportive and loving household. Being creative was encouraged and not to be afraid to be curious.
During my costume design program at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, I carried big ambitions and eagerness. I had some confidence from prior experience as a stylist, but unfamiliar with how costume design works. As I began learning more about the industry and exploring different career paths, I occasionally doubted where I fit in. However, hands-on classes helped me gain confidence in what I was striving to do. The sense of creativity, freedom, and adrenaline I experienced allowed me to discover emotion, passion, and assurance in my own work. I’ve had the pleasure of hearing from industry professionals and costume designers whose work I greatly admire, both through guest lectures in my class cohort and through opportunities to meet them at the Costume Designers Guild. Listening to their stories on how they started their careers and knowing some graduated from the same school, gave me a boost in confidence reminding me that success is possible. Each project I work on builds into the next, and the more I accomplish, the more confident I become that I am pursuing what I am truly passionate about.
My confidence comes from knowing that whatever I do, my name is attached to it, carrying a reputation. In an industry built on relationships and networking, I want to ensure that my work speaks for itself telling a story, reflecting my dedication, and showing that I can be trusted to collaborate with. When on set, as a costumer or head of department, I am not afraid to speak up in between takes. If I see even the slightest adjustment of the costume that is not intent that could ruin a shot, I am definitely stepping in.
The first film set I was on, I called out, “stepping in” to adjust the actor’s costume between takes. As I walked back to my area off screen, a crew member had said, “wow I really admire how vocal and attention to detail you are”. To me I was just doing my job, but in that moment it was a sign that others were noticing the care and awareness I brought to my role. I believe confidence is key on a film set, constant movement and not enough time to stop. As a costume designer, I understand that every department relies on one another to keep the production on schedule. That is why I do my best to ensure costumes are never held up on set, while always being ready to problem solve when obstacles arise. This work style builds my confidence and proves my work can be relied on. Having confidence in myself encourages others to trust me as a reliable member of the team.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I love being in the film and entertainment industry. It truly inspires me more and more especially while on set, where I find myself dreaming of bigger goals and recognizing that each project is a step in that direction. Back in high school , I took a studio tour at Warner Bros. I remember looking around and saying to myself, “I want to work here.” At the time, I didn’t even know exactly what I wanted to do in life, but I always carried a deep passion for film.
I earned my BA in Creative Industry Studies and AAs in Visual Communications and Advanced Costume Design for Film & TV, from the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles. With years of experience in wardrobe styling and costume design, I’ve developed my expertise through formal training, on-set work, freelance projects, and collaborations with industry professionals. Over the past two years, I have designed costumes for numerous short films, working closely with USC School of Cinematic Arts, New York Film Academy, and various independent film productions.
My mission is to inspire creativity and confidence through costume design, crafting distinct visual identities that resonate with audiences. I am passionate about collaborating across departments to bring characters to life helping actors fully embody their roles and ensuring costumes contribute meaningfully to storytelling.
I feel the most special aspect in costume design is being able to tell a story through color theory, silhouettes, and textures. Costumes communicate a film’s theme and reveal key details about a character’s identity. A costume introduces a character often before a character speaks.
The most exciting part of being a costume designer, I would say, is creating a wardrobe or look for characters, because each one represents a different personality that isn’t me. I get to step out of my comfort zone by dissecting each character like how they would shop, how they would feel in certain styles, and how textures and colors could shape their story. Every time I watch a film or show, I find myself paying close attention to the costumes. Sometimes, instead of following the plot, my mind is filled with questions like, “I wonder how many multiples they needed? Where did they source that? I hope they didn’t eat lunch in their costumes.”
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Area of knowledge: Self Respect
I believe the most important thing especially starting out is to ensure you are being respected both on and off set. Know your worth, value your time, and have your voice heard. It is essential that your morals align with your work ethic. Also, reflecting on if the work is worth your effort and the pay. One of the best pieces of advice I received from teachers and guest speakers that I continue to stand by is that it’s okay to say no. Not every project will be the right fit, and it is important to weigh the benefits versus disadvantages. Especially considering we’re fresh in the industry starting out, we’re ambitious and hungry for jobs that sometimes we forget to put ourselves first considering short notice, the tasks required, lack of info etc.. Setting boundaries, protecting your energy and making choices that support your growth and well being are all part of building a sustainable career in this industry.
Area of Knowledge: Actor’s Vulnerability
Understanding that the actors are often the most vulnerable when changing into costume. When a piece requires assistance, they are placing their trust in you as the costumer, allowing you to be hands-on in a personal process. It is important to understand that the costume itself can play a vital role in helping an actor embody their character. As a costume designer, I believe it’s my responsibility to guarantee awareness, respect, and sensitivity. Meaning, to ensure privacy during quick changes, making sure all costume pieces are safe and comfortable, and keeping communication open so actors can express if something doesn’t feel right. I also find it helpful to explain the meaning or intention behind a costume so the actor can connect to the character’s story. Through experience, actors develop a trusting relationship with the costume department.
Area of knowledge: On Set Preparation
On set, preparation becomes even more critical. Anything can go wrong, so building a stocked kit for quick alterations, unexpected changes, or emergencies is essential. If you can imagine it, it’s possible! I learned this firsthand on my first set, when we had to wash a shirt on demand for the next take. After that, I always made sure to keep a hairdryer in my kit, ready for spills, quick drying, or any mishaps. Build a kit that allows you to solve problems on the spot! Each set you will learn what to add to your kit. On set, ask your costume team what they carry in their kits, it is a quick way to discover new supplies and can add later. The more prepared you are, the better. Having the right tools on hand not only helps you handle anything on set, but it also impresses the crew and talent, building a reputation for being reliable and a good impression can lead to more opportunities.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Of course! I am always looking for collaborations, it is key to surviving and thriving in this industry. I’m always open to connecting with directors, producers, anyone passionate about film, television, or entertainment. This also opens the door to fellow costume designers, photographers, music artists, models, and anyone with a creative mindset.
I believe the most meaningful work happens when creative minds come together, I welcome opportunities to explore new projects and partnerships. My favorite part about being in the creative pathway is meeting new people and bringing a vision to life! Whether you are a fellow costume designer needing extra hands on set, or someone looking for a costume designer or stylist for an upcoming project, perfect, you’ve found the right person! To get in touch, you can simply email me at [email protected] or check out my website for previous work as well as my contact info!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://icstyle.xyz
- Instagram: Isabellee.castro
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/isabelle-castro-
- Other: email: [email protected]
Image Credits
Jailene Rodriguez
Xavier Caudill
N’Oublie Pas De Vivre (New York Film Academy Thesis Film, Dir. Rohan Aggarwall). Costumes by Isabelle Castro.
Many Thousands Lost (USC Thesis Film, Dir. Jehan Patterson). Costumes by Isabelle Castro.
