COSTUME DESIGNER

I am a costume designer with 5 years of theatrical production experience graduating from the University of Southern California. My love for costume design started when I learned about cosplay, often watching YouTube tutorials on how to make cosplays using thrift clothing and unconventional materials. I have designed theatrical shows using skills such as sewing, fabric painting, jewelry making, and mask making. I have designed costumes for the stage, but I am interested in applying my costume design and assistance skills to film and themed entertainment.

I believe in lifting up the vast, intricate cultures around the world. I wish to honor them through costume design by truthfully representing them through the inspiration of the full context of their clothing rather than superficially appropriating it. As a second-generation immigrant, stories were integral in helping me reconcile my Filipino and American identities. My costume designs strive to look within and empathize with a character's humanity, especially in celebration of the culture they were raised in.

As stories are so important to me, I would often daydream about being a part of the stories I would watch or read as a child. When my partner and I went to Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland, I remember watching their face light up as we walked through the entrance, the laughter we had as we rode the rides and said hello to the characters. This is why I have started taking an interest in themed entertainment and immersive experiences. I want to keep seeing that smile, and I want to make others happy like we were. I hope to create costumes that make others feel like they were transported into another world.