Color wheel depicting 18 departments of the RSC
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An RSC costume designer pinning a red satin dress on a mannequin Costume

The work of the Department includes dyeing, printing, leatherwork, beading, corsetry, millinery, mask–making and jewellery–making, in addition to a specialist Armoury department. Costumes are washed and maintained throughout the run, and most are available to be hired by schools, dramatic societies and other theaters thereafter.

"Maintenance of costumes is much more than a bit of washing and ironing. Certain fabrics are very delicate and have to be cared for with very special knowledge. There is a constant list of running repairs. It's a big job and great care must be taken."

— Alistair McArthur, Head of Costume