BABC LA had the honor of hosting an exclusive webinar with legendary costume designer Jenny Beavan, a three-time Academy Award winner known for her exceptional work in films such as A Room with a View, Mad Max: Fury Road, and Cruella. Moderated by Birgit Müller and joined by costume designer Marianne Parker, the conversation delved into Beavan’s illustrious career, creative process, and valuable life lessons.

Celebrating a Career of Excellence

Jenny Beavan, who was recently honored with the Career Achievement Award by the Costume Designers Guild, reflected on what this recognition meant to her. She expressed gratitude for being part of a community of costume designers, highlighting the camaraderie and shared experiences within the industry. Despite receiving a lifetime achievement award, she assured attendees that her career is far from over—she still has many stories to tell through costume design.

Insights from Her Oscar-Winning Films

Jenny took the audience on a journey through her three Oscar-winning projects:

• A Room with a View (1985): One of her earliest successes, Beavan collaborated with John Bright and worked with a small but dedicated team to create the film’s elegant Edwardian-era costumes. Despite budget constraints, the team managed to produce stunning period-accurate designs.
• Mad Max: Fury Road (2015): A radical departure from her period drama expertise, this film marked a turning point in Beavan’s career. She credited director George Miller for taking a chance on her, allowing her to experiment with unconventional materials and post-apocalyptic aesthetics.
• Cruella (2021): A high-fashion, punk-inspired spectacle, Cruella challenged Beavan to craft bold, theatrical costumes that balanced storytelling with visual extravagance.

When asked about her favorite among the three, Jenny found it impossible to choose, stating that each project was uniquely fulfilling.

Creative Challenges and Resourcefulness

Jenny discussed the varied challenges she has faced in different genres and historical periods. From working with tight budgets on independent films to designing costumes in remote locations like Namibia for Mad Max, every project has tested her creativity and adaptability. She emphasized the importance of problem-solving, repurposing materials, and thinking outside the box—a philosophy that played a major role in her work on Fury Road.

Collaboration with Directors and Actors

Having worked with directors like James Ivory and George Miller, Jenny shared insights on adapting to different creative visions. While some directors provide minimal input, others, like Miller, are deeply involved in the visual storytelling process. Regardless of the approach, she stressed that listening and collaboration are key to bringing a director’s vision to life.

She also recounted humorous and memorable moments with actors during fittings, including working with an actress who initially resisted wearing a corset, only to later appreciate its support and structure.

Inspiration and the Evolution of Costume Design

Jenny finds inspiration in everyday life, from observing people on public transport to browsing vintage stores. She prefers a hands-on approach to costume design, draping fabric directly onto mannequins rather than relying solely on sketches. Despite advancements in digital technology, she believes nothing replaces the physical process of fitting costumes on actors to understand how they move and interact with the fabric.

She acknowledged that while the internet has revolutionized research and communication, the art of costume design remains deeply rooted in craftsmanship and storytelling.

Advice for Aspiring Costume Designers

For those entering the industry, Jenny emphasized the importance of:

• Developing diverse skills: Understanding sewing, dyeing, tailoring, and fabric manipulation are invaluable.
• Teamwork and a strong work ethic: The industry demands long hours and adaptability.
• Kindness and respect: Building positive relationships with colleagues and actors fosters a healthy working environment.
• Taking projects one step at a time: She shared her mantra of breaking down large tasks into “bite-sized chunks” to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on her career, Jenny spoke about the joy of storytelling through costume design and the fulfillment of bringing characters to life. She also encouraged costume designers to explore all areas of the field, from wardrobe supervision to textile dyeing, as there are many rewarding roles beyond the designer’s chair.

The webinar concluded with a discussion about the differences between working in the UK and Hollywood, as well as the impact of recent industry changes, including funding challenges for independent films and the effects of strikes on production.

A Lasting Impact

Jenny Beavan’s career is a testament to passion, perseverance, and creative ingenuity. Her ability to adapt across genres, collaborate with top directors, and mentor new talent makes her a true icon in the world of costume design. As she continues to take on new projects, her impact on the industry remains as strong as ever.

Thank you to Jenny Beavan, Marianne Parker, and Birgit Müller for an inspiring discussion! Stay tuned for more exclusive events from BABC LA.