Glass Menagerie

Costume Research

By: Josh Sparks

 Explanation

The Glass Menagerie contains many interesting ideas and themes

that last throughout the show. One that sticks most to me is the
concept of faded memory. At the beginning of the play, Tom (the
narrator) gives a monologue stating that this is a memory play. This
concept inspires me to create a design where each of the character’s
costumes somewhat overlap each other. For example, a specific type
of fabric may be used across all costumes or one item of clothing
could potentially appear in scenes on opposite ends of the show.
 Amanda
- Period costumes
- Older clothes than any other
character “stuck in the past”
- As play goes on, clothes get more
and more disheveled
- Floral, lace, creams and warm colors
at the beginning
- Faded, dark, cool colors near the
end
- Sheer materials
- Extravagant coat
- Ruffles/flowers
- Dress must be down to the ankles
- Heels must match accent colors of
outfit
- Light, tilted hat
 Laura
- Wheelchair or crutches
- Far less girly than Amanda
- Dull colors: beige, greys, black,
white, brown
- Pants suit, vests, plain dresses, or
casual attire
- Collared dresses
- More recent styles (40’s fashion
rather than late and early 30’s
fashion)
- Darker clothes than counterparts to
represent a darker story
- Romper/jumpsuit
 Tom
- Nerdy style (sweater vest?)
- Well kept clothes
- Flowy items to symbolize creativity
(specific fabrics)
- Tight items to symbolize feeling
trapped (possibly suspenders,
bowtie, or tie)
- Possible change to work clothes
(overalls or denim)
- “Save fabric” for world war II efforts
- Must wear durable materials
- Business casual
- Up to date on fashion (1940’s
fashion not 1930’s)
 Jim O’Connor
- Described as ordinary, so clothes
should be up to date/typical
- Suit and tie
- Average Joe/maybe less formal
- Duller colors
- Monochromatic?
- *Figure out age in order to create a
more suitable costume*
- Work outfit?
- Fedora
- Leather jacket
 Additional Notes and Reminders
- World War II took place during this time, so make sure to account for war efforts.
- Keep track of each character’s profession or lifestyle, and have them dress accordingly.
- Try to differentiate between what the male characters wear.
- Color psychology is important, so create a story through the colors.
- Find a good method to make clothes look worn without it looking purposeful.
- BUDGET!