Costumer's Guild West

From our website (edited for length): The Costumer's Guild West Inc. is a community of costumers dedicated to promoting the art of costuming and needlework in all forms. Through Costume College, we present an educational forum where members can learn about the history of clothing, expressing their imagination in costuming, and creating links to the past, present, and future in the fashion arts. The CGW has expanded its focus to include a large number of historic reenactors and masters of the performing arts. As it has evolved, the CGW has turned much of its energy to education. For the past 14 years the CGW has produced its yearly educational conference, Costume College. As a result, the level and quality of costuming at events, such as masquerades, reenactments, and at museums has risen. Our members range from people who make no costumes whatsoever but just love the art itself, to novices, amateurs, hobbyists, and even professionals. All events the CGW produces or promotes are open to the public where we encourage dialogue between our members and all those attending these events. We also try to build a bridge between the past and the present. The CGW works hard to preserve skills that would be otherwise lost. Not only should these crafts be preserved for their own sake, but we believe the techniques can be utilized in new and creative ways, which means fashion can become art. The goal of the Costumer's Guild West is to teach the way things were and inspire creation of new ideas for tomorrow. Because we are a non-profit organization and run with all-volunteer labor, we are always looking for volunteers. If you have a special talent or skill whether costume-related or not, we would be happy to put your talent to use. Or, if you know someone who isn't part of the CGW but has an interest in costuming, let them know about us.