I would love to go, but as I live in Germany costs would literally EXPLODE. That's why I was so grateful for the TH-cam videos the past two years. Question(s): You showed a lot of group costumes. How do you plan them / get together? And what are your top three groups for costume college so far?
Yeah, it gets tough when you're coming from overseas. For the group costumes, it's usually that someone will get an idea at the previous Costume College, make a group for it with one or more other people, make a Facebook group for it, and share it to the Costume College main Facebook group, and other people will join in as they wish. My favorites have been Victorian children (even though there were only four of us), Titanic (a few of us even visited the Queen Mary in Long Beach before Costume College, and got lots of awesome pictures on the ship), and the Disney bustles group.
It's on my bucket list and I've wanted to attend ever since I saw Bernadette's videos about her attendance in 2018 & 19, and I had hoped to attend in 2020. Well, we all know how that turned out. Unfortunately I think attending this year will be out of the question for me. I'm on a limited income and I have to save up for things like Costume College. Plus, I'd want to have costumes and right now I don't have any I can wear. I think I might qualify for a scholarship, but then there is the airfare from Rochester, NY. And thanks for the tip on Southwest and the No Fee for up to 2 checked bags. I will definitely check them out when I do book my flights. I'd love for my hubby to come with me, but I think he's be bored. He appreciates my sewing and costuming, but unless he has something to do with it, I don't think he'd be interested.
I am motivated to start planning to attend in 2023! I've wanted to attend for years but I'm getting married this year in October so not a great idea ha. A year+ should be enough time to build up my costume "portfolio" and save up for the airfare and hotel!
As an introvert with both ADHD and ASD, this is so incredibly helpful. Having just this little bit of foreknowledge (especially about things like microwaves and the temperatures of classrooms) eases So Much anxiety. CoCo isn’t in my budget this year, but I’m hoping to make in next time around. Thank you so much for this video!
No way I'll ever make this but it sounds sooooooo fun. Wish I was 40 years younger. I made costumes for both my husband and myself every year for Halloween. One year we were George and Martha Washington, even got him a white wig. Costuming is fun. Hope you have a great time. Please share when you get back.
The cost breakdown you provided really helps in thinking ahead. While this year might be out of reach, if a person starts saving now, next year could be covered well in advance.
Thank you for the primer! It's not as expensive as I thought, but I still won't be able to go. With any luck, by next year I'll be over my New-and-Improved Social Anxiety (guaranteed to keep you in your own home and away from people in enclosed places, or your money back) and can face the idea of getting on an airplane. I'm hoping to go to an outdoor fair come summer, I've got my fingers crossed!
Thanks for the good info. I've been wanting to go for years, it seems like a lot of fun. As a person who has spent a considerable amount of time living in or in the suburbs of large cities, my main concern would be having a group of buddies that would not ditch me in the fabric district. I think it would be a good idea to implement a system of veteran guides that can help newcomers for that particular outing if there is not already one in place. Both uber and lyft are viable transportation options for people unfamiliar with driving in constant aggressive traffic jam situations (renting a car for an event such as this can be more of a headache than it's worth if you aren't used to the traffic conditions). I wish all who attend to have a fun, educational and safe experience!
Because I love to shop if need to save up a lot. I’d be stuck with flying, and figuring out everything else. I’ve never been, but now I know my minimum budget before I try. Thank you for this one.
Thank you. This is the most comprehensive information I've heard about Costume College. And like almost everyone who watch the video I would love to attend. Unfortunately COVID is still a "real thing" in my life and family (lost 2 vaccinated members last week ). Although we've all had all three vaccines, this option has not been everyones. Therefore, if I traveled this year I would be ostracized. Maybe next year....
You may not want to know this, but, I saw the funniest ad/movie during your show. This never happens. I watched the whole thing. The advertisers are really upping their game. Mind blowing. P.S. I loved your video because you give so much real information. Thank you for including prices and best airports and recommendations. I can't go, but I can Dream!
Thanks for posting this! I had quite a few questions about Costume College and you answered pretty much all of them! I would like to go, and I *do* have some money in my savings (that I was going to spend on going to Pennsic, but that has been pushed off another year), so I will have to see if this is a logistical thing to happen this year. PS - a Bridgerton theme would have been SO much more fun than pandemics and zombies.
I would like to mention my two favorite events, the breakfast in pajamas and the basement sales. Sunday, people may attend breakfast together in their pajamas or historical undies. We do so much work on them, it is nice to show them off. Then, as a fundraiser, everyone donates things to the basement sale and you can pick up amazing things for garage sale prices. I was amazed by the amount and quality.
I went once, waaaay back in the 90s (it was still in the Van Nuys Airtel). I live in the area (actually right by LAX) but I think I'd rather save up enough to stay in the hotel rather than driving, so maybe next year.
I am going with my daughter-in-law for the first time this year. We had planned on going in 2020, but we all know what happened to that. We didn't like the theme either, but we have so wanted to go that we are going. We registered as soon as it opened! We chose the Gala, but not the Tea; there were too many classes that we didn't want to miss out on. We do live close enough to drive, so that makes it a bit easier. I have a few costumes, but one group I joined is the Wrapper Parade. We are making Wrappers for Sunday morning breakfast. Can't wait!
I went a few times in the nineties, and was supposed to go in 2001, but my father passed that year and my mom, grandmother and I moved to Oceanside. I had planned to go a few times since because I'm so close and have family near there. But I haven't been able to. Since I'm caregiver to my mom, It's impossible. So I'll have to live vicariously through you and my fond memories! Have a great time!
Am I the only one whose first thought on hearing “Costuming Post Apocalypse: Creating a New World” is traditional or gilded-era cyberpunk? :P Thank you for this video! I have heard from Bernadette and a couple others about Costume College, but this actually has a lot more information than I have ever been able to find...and the introverts part in the middle was spot on!!! Excellent pointers, all around! Thank you!!!
Just a note, LAX has a bus called the flyaway. You can take it from LAX to Van Nuys, then catch a taxi Uber or lift from there to woodland hills. This costs something like $15, or $20 round trip(my numbers are old) you catch the flyaway, which runs every 15 minutes average, outside the lowest floor/baggage across the drive in the island before the main traffic. The bus will come from the main traffic. Make sure it says its going to Van Nuys as there are other routes. Hope everyone arrives safely and that it all goes smoothly 😀
There are two flyaway bus routes - both end/start at LAX. One goes to Van Nuys and the other goes to downtown railroad Union Station. As already suggested, you could arrive at LAX (cheaper tixs than Burbank) and flyaway to Van Nuys then uber to Woodland Hills. In Monday, you could go to the garment district then uber to Union Station (just a 10 min ride) then flyaway back to LAX. I lived in Van Nuys all my life until 4years ago and used the flyaway for any flights involving LAX. Much easier and a lot cheaper too! On a side note, my daughter and I met Lady Rebecca at last years Western Washington Ren Faire when we recognized her. She was so sweet to us!!
Thanks for answering my question! I probably won't be able to attend this year -- too expensive for me at the moment to fly in from Canada -- but I hope to attend in the future. (AlexMBright)
Hehehe! You showed your bias with your theme suggestions. They're all basically historical European options. I'd be interested in seeing more visions of the future, other cultures, or both, just for the change. Maybe going the opposite of the theme. Like, what would clothes look like in an ethical, sustainable, human-friendly future society? Not that I don't love floofy skirts and corsets, but I'd love to see what you guys would come up with for the future.
I bought my ticket last night! This will be my first time. I'm super excited but also a bit nervous. I agree that the theme this year is trash. I saw that and wondered WTF that meant in terms of what I could do as costumes, lol
Thank you for all this good information. I really want to go but I hate the theme and since dressing up is 80% of why I want to go I probably will pass unless they would like to revert to a more beautiful theme. Seriously. I did guest registration with the guild just in case I change my mind. We're moving back to the Seattle area from Orlando only a few weeks before this and I don't want to think about apocalyptic things
My friend DL and I are definitely going! It will be my first f2f CoCo, but my second attendance, since I did virtual CoCo last year. I can’t wait to meet some of my favorite CosTubers IRL, and hopefully bring goodies to share at the trunk show.
Enjoy the video and the info. It sounds like a lot of fun. But with costs involved (international flight, exchange rates, etc) I just can't justify it. After all, that would buy a lot of fabric. Maybe someday I'll be able to go.
Rebecca, thank you so much for this! I've been long debating about going, and hearing everything explained has helped me make the decision to go. I was especially concerned about being a first timer and not knowing anyone. And having to drop all my projects to make a Titanic-era everything 🙄 I do have one last question. Do my costumes all have to be historical? Do people wear cosplay at all? I have a Taco Belle dress I'd love to bring. And on that note--no hoops in classes. How many opportunities are there to wear hooped garments outside of the classes, besides the Gala?
Yes, you can definitely wear cosplay costumes! Most of the costuming is historical but there is always a contingent of people who wear cosplay, or cosplay/historical mashups. Your Taco Belle dress sounds amazing! It would definitely be admired at Costume College! As for wearing hooped dresses outside the Gala, you could wear one to the Tea and to the Friday Night Social, unless the Social is a sit-down affair like it was in 2019 (a fashion show with the audience in closely-set chairs).
Yep, Elizabeth said pretty much everything I was going to! Cosplay is totally fine, and hoops will be totally fine at any of the evening events or the tea (if they're smaller hoops and you are just taking lectures, they're probably fine too, as long as you don't wind up blocking up extra chairs - it's the workshops where they'll really get in the way).
Elizabeth, I totally forgot about that awful group fashion show. There's no info about it on the website, so hopefully that means they realized it didn't work, and aren't bringing it back.
@@e.urbach7780 Awesome, thanks so much for the information! Not sure she'll make the cut, depends on how much else I get finished, but it's good to know I could bring her if I wanted!
@@LadyRebeccaFashions Ok, good to know! Both my hooped gowns would block lots of chairs 🤣😳 but it's a good gague, and I'll keep that in mind for my other outfits. Will have some tough decisions ahead. Thanks!
You need to watch the UK period drama Gentleman Jack based on the life of Ann Lister a wealthy Victorian woman who left her diary’s hidden in her ancestral home Shibbden Hall its brilliant and the costumes are absolutely amazing
It was neat to hear your take on Costume College. I would LOVE to attend but it won't be likely to happen this year. Maybe next year though, and I will have a better idea of what to expect. :)
It's on my bucket list, but I won't be able to attend as the cost of everything, so maybe next year Hopefully. I am working on my sewing in general. Lady Rebecca you forgot about the Amtrak.
I took Amtrak to Costume College last year, and while it was doable, it wasn't comfortable. Depending on where you live, there will be train changes, and if you get a regular coach seat, you will have to load all your own luggage onto and off of the train each time (at least in California, the staff check your tickets but don't help you with your luggage unless it is very heavy or bulky, and you ask them to.) And if your seat is in the upper level of the train, you will be expected to carry your luggage up the very narrow staircase, one piece at a time! So, if you're taking the train, plan accordingly!
Bucket list trip for sure! But the dates are the weekend that our fiscal year closes and so I can't book any vacation in or around those dates. Maybe after I retire.
I would LOVE to attend! I never heard of it before I started following you and have been waiting for you to post something like this announcing that it is finally happening again but I just don't think I can swing it this year 😔
Thank you so much for all the really practical trips, like when you were talking about the rental cars! While I personally am not likely to ever attend Costume College, it's just general useful travel advice! 🥰 also, of course, very useful for everyone who IS considering going!
What would you say is the rate of people in costume vs. in “regular” clothes? I know you said wearing costume is totally optional but I would still feel left out if most people are costumed.
I would say that for classes, it's probably about 40% in costumes and 60% not in costume. For the evening events, it seems like everyone who attends the social and gala are in costume, but there's also a lot of people who watch the red carpet who aren't in costume (but then they seem to disappear later, so either they change or they just don't attend the gala).
I was hoping this would be the year I made it down for Costume College. Unfortunately (or fortunately!) I’m starting a new job in April so won’t be able to take the time off. Maybe next year, but we’re planning a Disney World trip that has been put off since 2020. I’ll get there someday!
A pipe dream I'm afraid. As I live in the UK the costs are astronomical. Being a wheelchair user you can nearly double the basic costs. With travel insurance, medical insurance and extra insurance for the wheelchair.
Another thing about the badge ribbons, ANYONE can give them out! As long as you find someone who's giving them out they'll give it to you or some have a little question you need to answer or a special item or color or theme that you need to match. You can go online there are quite a few companies who do make them, they're not too expensive for a bulk semi-custom item, typically there's a minimum needed to be ordered plus shipping. There used to be super popular around conventions in the '90s and early 2000s but I've faded out, and there's only a very few smaller conventions that have an active culture about the ribbon. One of the last conventions in California that still has a thriving culture about the ribbons is Anime Los Angeles. It's still going very strong and there's even a special ribbon that the only way to get it is you have enough additional ribbons attached to your badge that it goes from the 2nd story balcony to the ground on the 1st floor. And this is not typical house height stories It is about 20 25 ft up, there's even a dedicated set of sewing machines where people have to stitch their ribbons together to hold them. Because there is so many ribbons attached to each other that the glue that is used on the ribbons cannot support their weight.
Yeah, I've had glue problems with mine before, and my longest ones are only about 5 ft! I keep thinking of bringing ribbons to give out - they're so fun to collect!
While I 100% agree with you about the film version of P&P&Z (except for the amazing Matt Smith as Mister Collins and Helen McCrory as Lady Catherine), the book is amazing! It's a it different story. The movie is a zombie movie with P&P characters. The book is P&P with the addition of zombies on a historically accurate way. One of my favorites but I was so disappointed by the film.
I am so sad I will miss you, Noelle, Christine and Stephanie. I had planned on attending my first in person Costume College. Alas life. Maybe next year.
I would really love to go, but since I am in the Netherlands, I will have to save up and set next year as my goal to go. I know when there, I will be tempted to buy loads of stuff though, and then have no idea how to get that back home with me..... Does anyone have ideas on how to organize that??
@@LadyRebeccaFashions thank you so much for taking the time to respond Rebecca! I realize that there are many ways to ship things, but have no idea what the best way to go about it would be. Simply go to a post office, or are there better and cheaper ways to ship from America? I really haven't got a clue...... Maybe just buy the largest suitcase I can find and take as little with me as possible LOL.... lot's of room to store my goodies in on the way back. 😂😂😂
@@nian60 Hi Ni An, yeahhh custom fees are really a bummer; it makes everything so much more expensive on top of the already expensive shipping fees. Unfortunately there is a lot that you simply can't come by over here, at least, not at an affordable price. Silks are so incredibly expensive, that I won't ever be able to afford those, but also, those nice plaid ones or a nice stripe I cannot find over here. Such a shame!
I wish i could attend Costume College, it's way beyond my budget right now. Might look at it again next year or 2024, if I can talk my husband into a holiday.
Thank you so much for explaining Costume College to us. I thought you covered all of it. I've always thought it was a part of a real technical College program and you had to be a fashion major to attend. I can't go this year but it gives me a goal for the future. What's funny is that I grew up in Woodland Hills area but I now live in Florida. They need to do a East Coast one. Are there any other conventions like this anywhere else? What kind of things do you learn in their workshops and lectures?
I don't know of any others currently. There was one on the east coast for a few years called Dress U, but I don't think it's still running. There's also something called Costume Con, which changes location every year, but I don't think it is as class-based as Costume College (I've never been).
I might try to go with Grad class next year. We grad this year but we are from Canada so a 700-1,000 USD trip is probably a 900-1,500 CAD which is a lot ;-; hopefully my Dune stilsuit is done by then and I have at least 1 historical costume done. I've been wanting to make one but $$ is such an issue that I haven't had a chance to yet
@@LadyRebeccaFashions That one's been postponed to 2023, still in San Jose. Being in the UK, I've only made it to Costume Con three times, Chicago 2003, San Jose (Costume con 26... 2008, I think, not the recent one), and Milwaukee in 2010. It was very similar to your description of Costume College (which I still hope to attend some day, even though I can't wear costume an more).
Thank you so much for this information. I have been wanting to attend since I discovered the wonderful world of costuming during lockdown. I am seriously considering attending, but I have no costumes, my question is can you wear vintage clothes? I know you can but is it a thing other people do? Or do people only wear historic costumes? I like to wear vintage clothing from the 1940s, 30s, and 20s, but rarely hav anywhere to go in them, especially these days.
You can absolutely wear vintage! There's a lot of people who wear vintage during the day, especially, but I have also seen people wear vintage to all the evening events as well.
Why wouldn't you want to go to the Fashion District in your "costume?" Do they frown upon it? Have very narrow spaces? Too tough to change for the airport? Or do people just look at you oddly? Frankly, I love seeing people in costume.
All of the above. It's very hot there/not air conditioned, many of the stores have so much fabric that they're hard to walk through, streets outside are dirty, and you'd stand out a lot (and probably not in a good way).
Can you wear cosplay even if it doesn’t fit the theme? I’m working on one of my dream cosplays for Fanime this year, and would love another opportunity to show it off!!
Yes. You can wear any costume, even if it doesn't fit the theme! I almost never dress according to the theme, unless the theme happens to fit something I already have or were planning to make anyway.
The fabric district is in the inner part of Los Angeles, where it is very crowded and dirty, and theft has been a problem. You will also be outside most of the time (walking from store to store) in Los Angeles in July or August, where the temperature can be 90 to 100 degrees. It won't be comfortable for you, your costume will get damaged, and you might even have part of it stolen. Not to mention, a lot of the shops are very crowded inside, and there is barely enough room for people to walk in single file in there!
Not to my knowledge. Though costume con is on the east coast this year (I think it's this weekend or next), and I think there are a few similarities between the two.
No matter how much I would love to attend…. The cost is beyond prohibitive for me…. It would take me 5 years to budget savings to afford to attend…. However…. I have You Tube
I have a Costume College vlog from last year with lots of info about the new hotel! I don't think I will remake this one till after this year's Coco, as I think they were working out a lot of kinks with the new location last year.
Definitely not the Daniel Deronda riding habit, as it would be way too hot to wear. I do plan to take the current Gilded Age one though. I feel like I need it to be twice as long as event as usual, to be able to wear everything I've made!
I want to go, but I'm scared. I'm super shy around new people and worry I'll give off "lurker" vibes by just gawking at all the pretty clothes and costumes. Plus, I'm a super newbie sewer. I'm worried it'll be terribly obvious that I'm new to the scene. If I do go, though, I want to at least wear a costume to the Titanic event. That's my favorite period.
Honestly, most people at Costume College are shy, so you'll be in good company! And no worries about being a beginner - you'll learn a lot by attending, too!
I have been told it is quite clique-y and for someone like me that is a huge turn off. i always was the one that was being snubbed for some reason so no need to be snubbed for being a beginner.
It's not people being deliberately cliquey, though. It's just that most of the attendees are introverted and shy, so they tend to be reluctant to approach people they don't know.
Please, Please, Please, take pictures or videos and post them on TH-cam. I have wanted to go since I found out about it over 20 years ago. At the time I only lived 90 min away. Now that I can afford to go, I can't physically go. My right leg was amputated 1 1/2 years ago with complications. The last time there were some great videos and I also saw my College Clothing Construction Professor there. I will probably post this on several TH-cam Channels. I am truly sorry about that but I do want to go so bad and can't and you who go are my only chance to see anything going on there. Thank you.
I won't be attending this year, but it's something that's on my list to do. One concern I have is how friendly it is to trans women. I assume the convention is fine (especially being in California)...but what about the attendees?
Of course, any event may have the isolated judgmental individual, but on the whole the folx at Costume College are very accepting with quite a few LGBTQIA+ people in attendance.
Not necessarily. I mean, tbh, I think most people do, even if they're local, just because it makes things easier (especially if you're wearing multiple costumes in a day). It also allows you more opportunity to hang out after the evening's activities. But if you're close enough, then it would save a lot of money to stay at home!
It's capped at about 700 attendees. I don't know if it's ever sold out in advance, though you do have to register by June 15th. And I'm not sure of the actual average attendee count, but I want to say it may be around 600? There seems to be more people every year.
They offer need and merit based scholarships. There's none for this year, since they were the people who were awarded them a couple years ago, but I believe the info for applying for next year is on the Costume College website. And I don't believe they're doing any digital events this year.
Are you attending Costume College for the first time this year? Reply here to meet other people!
I’m a very strong maybe! I live in the Bay Area in California.
I am attending for the first time this year, and I'm coming all the way from Kenya :)
Yes I am going with my mom. We are from orang county CA
Thanks for answering my question! I think I’ll take the plunge and register…and then sew like crazy!
I am so excited to go. I made plans for 2020, then Covid happened. I participated online in 2021. This will be my first year in person. I live in LA.
I would love to go, but as I live in Germany costs would literally EXPLODE. That's why I was so grateful for the TH-cam videos the past two years.
Question(s): You showed a lot of group costumes. How do you plan them / get together? And what are your top three groups for costume college so far?
Yeah, it gets tough when you're coming from overseas. For the group costumes, it's usually that someone will get an idea at the previous Costume College, make a group for it with one or more other people, make a Facebook group for it, and share it to the Costume College main Facebook group, and other people will join in as they wish.
My favorites have been Victorian children (even though there were only four of us), Titanic (a few of us even visited the Queen Mary in Long Beach before Costume College, and got lots of awesome pictures on the ship), and the Disney bustles group.
Know how you feel Kahori. I'm in the UK and a wheelchair user. I don't even want to contemplate the costs for me.
Same, I can't imagine being able to go in the next years, the cost for a flight to the US is just... oof.
It's on my bucket list and I've wanted to attend ever since I saw Bernadette's videos about her attendance in 2018 & 19, and I had hoped to attend in 2020. Well, we all know how that turned out. Unfortunately I think attending this year will be out of the question for me. I'm on a limited income and I have to save up for things like Costume College. Plus, I'd want to have costumes and right now I don't have any I can wear. I think I might qualify for a scholarship, but then there is the airfare from Rochester, NY. And thanks for the tip on Southwest and the No Fee for up to 2 checked bags. I will definitely check them out when I do book my flights. I'd love for my hubby to come with me, but I think he's be bored. He appreciates my sewing and costuming, but unless he has something to do with it, I don't think he'd be interested.
I am motivated to start planning to attend in 2023! I've wanted to attend for years but I'm getting married this year in October so not a great idea ha. A year+ should be enough time to build up my costume "portfolio" and save up for the airfare and hotel!
As an introvert with both ADHD and ASD, this is so incredibly helpful. Having just this little bit of foreknowledge (especially about things like microwaves and the temperatures of classrooms) eases So Much anxiety. CoCo isn’t in my budget this year, but I’m hoping to make in next time around. Thank you so much for this video!
No way I'll ever make this but it sounds sooooooo fun. Wish I was 40 years younger. I made costumes for both my husband and myself every year for Halloween. One year we were George and Martha Washington, even got him a white wig. Costuming is fun. Hope you have a great time. Please share when you get back.
I am so, SO tempted this year. It’s on my bucket list, and I’m just still on the fence about trying for this year or waiting until next year.
Same here.
I feel the same.
Same !
Thank you for sharing this video! I don't know that I will ever be able to attend costume college, but it was a lot of fun to hear about.
Hello 🤗
The cost breakdown you provided really helps in thinking ahead. While this year might be out of reach, if a person starts saving now, next year could be covered well in advance.
Thank you for the primer! It's not as expensive as I thought, but I still won't be able to go. With any luck, by next year I'll be over my New-and-Improved Social Anxiety (guaranteed to keep you in your own home and away from people in enclosed places, or your money back) and can face the idea of getting on an airplane. I'm hoping to go to an outdoor fair come summer, I've got my fingers crossed!
Thanks for the good info. I've been wanting to go for years, it seems like a lot of fun.
As a person who has spent a considerable amount of time living in or in the suburbs of large cities, my main concern would be having a group of buddies that would not ditch me in the fabric district. I think it would be a good idea to implement a system of veteran guides that can help newcomers for that particular outing if there is not already one in place.
Both uber and lyft are viable transportation options for people unfamiliar with driving in constant aggressive traffic jam situations (renting a car for an event such as this can be more of a headache than it's worth if you aren't used to the traffic conditions).
I wish all who attend to have a fun, educational and safe experience!
That's what the fabric district tour is for! I believe that if you choose, you can just stay in a group with the tour leader.
Because I love to shop if need to save up a lot. I’d be stuck with flying, and figuring out everything else. I’ve never been, but now I know my minimum budget before I try. Thank you for this one.
Thank you. This is the most comprehensive information I've heard about Costume College. And like almost everyone who watch the video I would love to attend. Unfortunately COVID is still a "real thing" in my life and family (lost 2 vaccinated members last week ). Although we've all had all three vaccines, this option has not been everyones. Therefore, if I traveled this year I would be ostracized. Maybe next year....
I'm so sorry for your loss. 🫂
*crying in Australian whilst watching this video*
You need to come!! 😉
We dream of doing such things!
are you planning on going this year? I'm flying over from Melbourne!
You may not want to know this, but, I saw the funniest ad/movie during your show. This never happens. I watched the whole thing. The advertisers are really upping their game. Mind blowing. P.S. I loved your video because you give so much real information. Thank you for including prices and best airports and recommendations. I can't go, but I can Dream!
Thanks for posting this! I had quite a few questions about Costume College and you answered pretty much all of them! I would like to go, and I *do* have some money in my savings (that I was going to spend on going to Pennsic, but that has been pushed off another year), so I will have to see if this is a logistical thing to happen this year. PS - a Bridgerton theme would have been SO much more fun than pandemics and zombies.
Hello 🤗
I would like to mention my two favorite events, the breakfast in pajamas and the basement sales. Sunday, people may attend breakfast together in their pajamas or historical undies. We do so much work on them, it is nice to show them off. Then, as a fundraiser, everyone donates things to the basement sale and you can pick up amazing things for garage sale prices. I was amazed by the amount and quality.
They need to do a uk/European coco.
It sounds so much fun but very expensive especially for those coming from abroad.
I went once, waaaay back in the 90s (it was still in the Van Nuys Airtel). I live in the area (actually right by LAX) but I think I'd rather save up enough to stay in the hotel rather than driving, so maybe next year.
I would really like to go, but can't afford it for this year. It sounds like so much fun!
I understand, as I live in England the cost of flights alone is out of my reach.
I am going with my daughter-in-law for the first time this year. We had planned on going in 2020, but we all know what happened to that. We didn't like the theme either, but we have so wanted to go that we are going. We registered as soon as it opened! We chose the Gala, but not the Tea; there were too many classes that we didn't want to miss out on. We do live close enough to drive, so that makes it a bit easier. I have a few costumes, but one group I joined is the Wrapper Parade. We are making Wrappers for Sunday morning breakfast. Can't wait!
Wrappers for Sunday sounds fun!
I went a few times in the nineties, and was supposed to go in 2001, but my father passed that year and my mom, grandmother and I moved to Oceanside. I had planned to go a few times since because I'm so close and have family near there. But I haven't been able to. Since I'm caregiver to my mom, It's impossible. So I'll have to live vicariously through you and my fond memories! Have a great time!
I would love to go! I have wanted to for years, but it will be a huge commitment for travel.
Am I the only one whose first thought on hearing “Costuming Post Apocalypse: Creating a New World” is traditional or gilded-era cyberpunk? :P
Thank you for this video! I have heard from Bernadette and a couple others about Costume College, but this actually has a lot more information than I have ever been able to find...and the introverts part in the middle was spot on!!! Excellent pointers, all around! Thank you!!!
Thank you for all this information. I have been wanting to attend this event. Probably not this year, but maybe in the next year or two.
Just a note, LAX has a bus called the flyaway. You can take it from LAX to Van Nuys, then catch a taxi Uber or lift from there to woodland hills. This costs something like $15, or $20 round trip(my numbers are old) you catch the flyaway, which runs every 15 minutes average, outside the lowest floor/baggage across the drive in the island before the main traffic. The bus will come from the main traffic. Make sure it says its going to Van Nuys as there are other routes. Hope everyone arrives safely and that it all goes smoothly 😀
Flyaway was always a nice ride to an from the airport when I lived in LA. I wonder if they still have to ticket kiosks?
Good to know!
They mention the Flyaway Bus under Transportation/Parking on the Costume College webpage, and says it's $9.75 one way. Look under the Hotel tab.
There are two flyaway bus routes - both end/start at LAX. One goes to Van Nuys and the other goes to downtown railroad Union Station. As already suggested, you could arrive at LAX (cheaper tixs than Burbank) and flyaway to Van Nuys then uber to Woodland Hills. In Monday, you could go to the garment district then uber to Union Station (just a 10 min ride) then flyaway back to LAX. I lived in Van Nuys all my life until 4years ago and used the flyaway for any flights involving LAX. Much easier and a lot cheaper too! On a side note, my daughter and I met Lady Rebecca at last years Western Washington Ren Faire when we recognized her. She was so sweet to us!!
@@sunriseeyes0 yes, they do!
Thanks for answering my question! I probably won't be able to attend this year -- too expensive for me at the moment to fly in from Canada -- but I hope to attend in the future. (AlexMBright)
Hehehe! You showed your bias with your theme suggestions. They're all basically historical European options. I'd be interested in seeing more visions of the future, other cultures, or both, just for the change. Maybe going the opposite of the theme. Like, what would clothes look like in an ethical, sustainable, human-friendly future society? Not that I don't love floofy skirts and corsets, but I'd love to see what you guys would come up with for the future.
Very good point. I would totally be up for themes from other cultures as well (but future-based stuff is just not my thing).
I bought my ticket last night! This will be my first time. I'm super excited but also a bit nervous. I agree that the theme this year is trash. I saw that and wondered WTF that meant in terms of what I could do as costumes, lol
Thank you for all this good information. I really want to go but I hate the theme and since dressing up is 80% of why I want to go I probably will pass unless they would like to revert to a more beautiful theme. Seriously. I did guest registration with the guild just in case I change my mind. We're moving back to the Seattle area from Orlando only a few weeks before this and I don't want to think about apocalyptic things
Yeah, the theme totally sucks, but I have a feeling most other people will be ignoring it as well.
Oh also, once you get back to Seattle, you should join the Puget Sound Historical Costumers Guild on Facebook!
My friend DL and I are definitely going! It will be my first f2f CoCo, but my second attendance, since I did virtual CoCo last year. I can’t wait to meet some of my favorite CosTubers IRL, and hopefully bring goodies to share at the trunk show.
Enjoy the video and the info. It sounds like a lot of fun.
But with costs involved (international flight, exchange rates, etc) I just can't justify it. After all, that would buy a lot of fabric. Maybe someday I'll be able to go.
We're buying a house this year so I can't go this year. Next year I think it will be on my goals list.
Rebecca, thank you so much for this! I've been long debating about going, and hearing everything explained has helped me make the decision to go. I was especially concerned about being a first timer and not knowing anyone. And having to drop all my projects to make a Titanic-era everything 🙄
I do have one last question. Do my costumes all have to be historical? Do people wear cosplay at all? I have a Taco Belle dress I'd love to bring. And on that note--no hoops in classes. How many opportunities are there to wear hooped garments outside of the classes, besides the Gala?
Yes, you can definitely wear cosplay costumes! Most of the costuming is historical but there is always a contingent of people who wear cosplay, or cosplay/historical mashups. Your Taco Belle dress sounds amazing! It would definitely be admired at Costume College!
As for wearing hooped dresses outside the Gala, you could wear one to the Tea and to the Friday Night Social, unless the Social is a sit-down affair like it was in 2019 (a fashion show with the audience in closely-set chairs).
Yep, Elizabeth said pretty much everything I was going to! Cosplay is totally fine, and hoops will be totally fine at any of the evening events or the tea (if they're smaller hoops and you are just taking lectures, they're probably fine too, as long as you don't wind up blocking up extra chairs - it's the workshops where they'll really get in the way).
Elizabeth, I totally forgot about that awful group fashion show. There's no info about it on the website, so hopefully that means they realized it didn't work, and aren't bringing it back.
@@e.urbach7780 Awesome, thanks so much for the information! Not sure she'll make the cut, depends on how much else I get finished, but it's good to know I could bring her if I wanted!
@@LadyRebeccaFashions Ok, good to know! Both my hooped gowns would block lots of chairs 🤣😳 but it's a good gague, and I'll keep that in mind for my other outfits. Will have some tough decisions ahead. Thanks!
You need to watch the UK period drama Gentleman Jack based on the life of Ann Lister a wealthy Victorian woman who left her diary’s hidden in her ancestral home Shibbden Hall its brilliant and the costumes are absolutely amazing
I love Gentleman Jack!
It was neat to hear your take on Costume College. I would LOVE to attend but it won't be likely to happen this year. Maybe next year though, and I will have a better idea of what to expect. :)
Yea cons and such are great ways for us introverts to meet new friends in a socialish setting
Hello 👋
It's on my bucket list, but I won't be able to attend as the cost of everything, so maybe next year Hopefully. I am working on my sewing in general. Lady Rebecca you forgot about the Amtrak.
I took Amtrak to Costume College last year, and while it was doable, it wasn't comfortable. Depending on where you live, there will be train changes, and if you get a regular coach seat, you will have to load all your own luggage onto and off of the train each time (at least in California, the staff check your tickets but don't help you with your luggage unless it is very heavy or bulky, and you ask them to.) And if your seat is in the upper level of the train, you will be expected to carry your luggage up the very narrow staircase, one piece at a time! So, if you're taking the train, plan accordingly!
@@e.urbach7780 Thank you for the information. I have never flown before and I am not a fan of Highs so Amtrak would be the best.
Bucket list trip for sure! But the dates are the weekend that our fiscal year closes and so I can't book any vacation in or around those dates. Maybe after I retire.
I would LOVE to attend! I never heard of it before I started following you and have been waiting for you to post something like this announcing that it is finally happening again but I just don't think I can swing it this year 😔
Thank you for this but it is too costly and the theme does suck.
Thank you so much for all the really practical trips, like when you were talking about the rental cars! While I personally am not likely to ever attend Costume College, it's just general useful travel advice! 🥰 also, of course, very useful for everyone who IS considering going!
What would you say is the rate of people in costume vs. in “regular” clothes? I know you said wearing costume is totally optional but I would still feel left out if most people are costumed.
Noelle of Costuming Drama only dresses up if she's planned something with other costumers. She says she's usually in a t-shirt, jeans, and a bandana.
I would say that for classes, it's probably about 40% in costumes and 60% not in costume. For the evening events, it seems like everyone who attends the social and gala are in costume, but there's also a lot of people who watch the red carpet who aren't in costume (but then they seem to disappear later, so either they change or they just don't attend the gala).
I was hoping this would be the year I made it down for Costume College. Unfortunately (or fortunately!) I’m starting a new job in April so won’t be able to take the time off. Maybe next year, but we’re planning a Disney World trip that has been put off since 2020. I’ll get there someday!
Congratulations on the new job!
@@sarahrosen4985 thank you so much!
Congrats on the new job. Wish you all the luck.
This is tremendously helpful! Thank you!!
Loved the video! Not me reading the title and thinking it's a real school like acting school not a convention like vidcon or comi con.
A pipe dream I'm afraid. As I live in the UK the costs are astronomical. Being a wheelchair user you can nearly double the basic costs. With travel insurance, medical insurance and extra insurance for the wheelchair.
Oh yes, that would be rough. It's terrible that all the extra expenses are required!
Another thing about the badge ribbons, ANYONE can give them out!
As long as you find someone who's giving them out they'll give it to you or some have a little question you need to answer or a special item or color or theme that you need to match. You can go online there are quite a few companies who do make them, they're not too expensive for a bulk semi-custom item, typically there's a minimum needed to be ordered plus shipping.
There used to be super popular around conventions in the '90s and early 2000s but I've faded out, and there's only a very few smaller conventions that have an active culture about the ribbon.
One of the last conventions in California that still has a thriving culture about the ribbons is Anime Los Angeles. It's still going very strong and there's even a special ribbon that the only way to get it is you have enough additional ribbons attached to your badge that it goes from the 2nd story balcony to the ground on the 1st floor. And this is not typical house height stories It is about 20 25 ft up, there's even a dedicated set of sewing machines where people have to stitch their ribbons together to hold them. Because there is so many ribbons attached to each other that the glue that is used on the ribbons cannot support their weight.
Yeah, I've had glue problems with mine before, and my longest ones are only about 5 ft! I keep thinking of bringing ribbons to give out - they're so fun to collect!
You covered that very well! Thanks!
I'd love to attend this someday!
While I 100% agree with you about the film version of P&P&Z (except for the amazing Matt Smith as Mister Collins and Helen McCrory as Lady Catherine), the book is amazing! It's a it different story. The movie is a zombie movie with P&P characters. The book is P&P with the addition of zombies on a historically accurate way. One of my favorites but I was so disappointed by the film.
And I hate that they changed the ending! Rant over.
I am so sad I will miss you, Noelle, Christine and Stephanie. I had planned on attending my first in person Costume College. Alas life. Maybe next year.
I would really love to go, but since I am in the Netherlands, I will have to save up and set next year as my goal to go. I know when there, I will be tempted to buy loads of stuff though, and then have no idea how to get that back home with me..... Does anyone have ideas on how to organize that??
Hi live in England so share you sadness about cost to travel.
You could always ship things home, if you can't fit it in your luggage!
You could post the fabrics as a package to your own home address. Just check things like customs fees first.
@@LadyRebeccaFashions thank you so much for taking the time to respond Rebecca! I realize that there are many ways to ship things, but have no idea what the best way to go about it would be. Simply go to a post office, or are there better and cheaper ways to ship from America? I really haven't got a clue...... Maybe just buy the largest suitcase I can find and take as little with me as possible LOL.... lot's of room to store my goodies in on the way back. 😂😂😂
@@nian60 Hi Ni An, yeahhh custom fees are really a bummer; it makes everything so much more expensive on top of the already expensive shipping fees. Unfortunately there is a lot that you simply can't come by over here, at least, not at an affordable price. Silks are so incredibly expensive, that I won't ever be able to afford those, but also, those nice plaid ones or a nice stripe I cannot find over here. Such a shame!
I wish i could attend Costume College, it's way beyond my budget right now. Might look at it again next year or 2024, if I can talk my husband into a holiday.
Great video! It’s on my list of things to do! I would definitely be the one who forgot to eat I have done it regularly since I can remember!
Thank you so much for explaining Costume College to us. I thought you covered all of it. I've always thought it was a part of a real technical College program and you had to be a fashion major to attend. I can't go this year but it gives me a goal for the future. What's funny is that I grew up in Woodland Hills area but I now live in Florida. They need to do a East Coast one. Are there any other conventions like this anywhere else? What kind of things do you learn in their workshops and lectures?
I don't know of any others currently. There was one on the east coast for a few years called Dress U, but I don't think it's still running. There's also something called Costume Con, which changes location every year, but I don't think it is as class-based as Costume College (I've never been).
I might try to go with Grad class next year. We grad this year but we are from Canada so a 700-1,000 USD trip is probably a 900-1,500 CAD which is a lot ;-; hopefully my Dune stilsuit is done by then and I have at least 1 historical costume done. I've been wanting to make one but $$ is such an issue that I haven't had a chance to yet
Ooof, agreed that this wasn't a good year for that theme choice.
It sounds almost identical to attending Costome Con (except that they have costume competitions rahter than galas and teas).
I've been intrigued by costume con, but have never attended. I had planned to go last year, when it was going to be in San Jose.
@@LadyRebeccaFashions That one's been postponed to 2023, still in San Jose.
Being in the UK, I've only made it to Costume Con three times, Chicago 2003, San Jose (Costume con 26... 2008, I think, not the recent one), and Milwaukee in 2010. It was very similar to your description of Costume College (which I still hope to attend some day, even though I can't wear costume an more).
@@LadyRebeccaFashions it’s going to be in San Jose next year! Friends of mine are among the organizers.
@@ReneePowell I'll almost definitely go if it's in San Jose! My parents live in the Bay Area, so it's a good excuse to visit them.
Thank you so much for this information. I have been wanting to attend since I discovered the wonderful world of costuming during lockdown. I am seriously considering attending, but I have no costumes, my question is can you wear vintage clothes? I know you can but is it a thing other people do? Or do people only wear historic costumes? I like to wear vintage clothing from the 1940s, 30s, and 20s, but rarely hav anywhere to go in them, especially these days.
You can absolutely wear vintage! There's a lot of people who wear vintage during the day, especially, but I have also seen people wear vintage to all the evening events as well.
I was going to go for the first time this year. But decided to wait. I haven't joined yet. I'm trying to get my Regency closet done first.
thank you for the info! I agree the theme this year is ugh gross no
Why wouldn't you want to go to the Fashion District in your "costume?" Do they frown upon it? Have very narrow spaces? Too tough to change for the airport? Or do people just look at you oddly? Frankly, I love seeing people in costume.
All of the above. It's very hot there/not air conditioned, many of the stores have so much fabric that they're hard to walk through, streets outside are dirty, and you'd stand out a lot (and probably not in a good way).
Thank you Ssooooo much for this video
USPS has a pay-one-price box for shipping. I sent sea glass home that way one year from vacation
Can you wear cosplay even if it doesn’t fit the theme? I’m working on one of my dream cosplays for Fanime this year, and would love another opportunity to show it off!!
For context: it’s a ballgown interpretation of Rose Quartz from Steven Universe!
Yes. You can wear any costume, even if it doesn't fit the theme! I almost never dress according to the theme, unless the theme happens to fit something I already have or were planning to make anyway.
Yep, you can absolutely wear cosplay!
Is there a particular reason you shouldn't wear costumes to the fabric district?
The fabric district is in the inner part of Los Angeles, where it is very crowded and dirty, and theft has been a problem. You will also be outside most of the time (walking from store to store) in Los Angeles in July or August, where the temperature can be 90 to 100 degrees. It won't be comfortable for you, your costume will get damaged, and you might even have part of it stolen. Not to mention, a lot of the shops are very crowded inside, and there is barely enough room for people to walk in single file in there!
Yep, exactly what Elizabeth said! On top of all that, you will also stick out like a tourist and they'll probably raise prices on you.
Thanks for all the wonderful information!
Are there any similar events on the east coast?
Not to my knowledge. Though costume con is on the east coast this year (I think it's this weekend or next), and I think there are a few similarities between the two.
No matter how much I would love to attend…. The cost is beyond prohibitive for me…. It would take me 5 years to budget savings to afford to attend…. However…. I have You Tube
*Geeks out in Angeleno*
Not this year but definitely in my list!
Hi Rebecca ... I wonder if you'd be interested in making an update to this video with info about the new hotel that this year's College is at?
I have a Costume College vlog from last year with lots of info about the new hotel! I don't think I will remake this one till after this year's Coco, as I think they were working out a lot of kinks with the new location last year.
I want to go so bad 😭 cost, hotels, plane tickets… feels unlikely 😔
HOW DID I GET TO BE THIS OLD AND NOT KNOW THAT THIS IS A THING?!?
Will you be taking the Daniel Deronda riding habit, and the builder age gown you are currently working on?
Definitely not the Daniel Deronda riding habit, as it would be way too hot to wear. I do plan to take the current Gilded Age one though. I feel like I need it to be twice as long as event as usual, to be able to wear everything I've made!
@@LadyRebeccaFashions Cool, can't wait to hear all about your time there. Have fun!!!!
I want to go, but I'm scared. I'm super shy around new people and worry I'll give off "lurker" vibes by just gawking at all the pretty clothes and costumes. Plus, I'm a super newbie sewer. I'm worried it'll be terribly obvious that I'm new to the scene. If I do go, though, I want to at least wear a costume to the Titanic event. That's my favorite period.
Honestly, most people at Costume College are shy, so you'll be in good company! And no worries about being a beginner - you'll learn a lot by attending, too!
I have been told it is quite clique-y and for someone like me that is a huge turn off. i always was the one that was being snubbed for some reason so no need to be snubbed for being a beginner.
It's not people being deliberately cliquey, though. It's just that most of the attendees are introverted and shy, so they tend to be reluctant to approach people they don't know.
i am wondering if the online version will happen as well this year?
I've heard that it won't be, but I don't know that for certain.
@@LadyRebeccaFashions that’s sad it was so much fun for us who can’t get to things like this.
@@DAYBROK3 yeah, what I had heard was that, because it's all volunteers who run this, it was way too much to take on both in person and virtual.
@@LadyRebeccaFashions I hope those who vlogged it before will do it again
Please, Please, Please, take pictures or videos and post them on TH-cam. I have wanted to go since I found out about it over 20 years ago. At the time I only lived 90 min away. Now that I can afford to go, I can't physically go. My right leg was amputated 1 1/2 years ago with complications. The last time there were some great videos and I also saw my College Clothing Construction Professor there.
I will probably post this on several TH-cam Channels. I am truly sorry about that but I do want to go so bad and can't and you who go are my only chance to see anything going on there. Thank you.
I do plan to vlog it, and I always take lots of pictures, too!
@@LadyRebeccaFashions I look so forward to seeing them.
I won't be attending this year, but it's something that's on my list to do. One concern I have is how friendly it is to trans women. I assume the convention is fine (especially being in California)...but what about the attendees?
I can't say for certain, but everyone I know who attends would definitely be friendly to trans women.
Of course, any event may have the isolated judgmental individual, but on the whole the folx at Costume College are very accepting with quite a few LGBTQIA+ people in attendance.
Well if Post Apocalypse means' Happy Days are here again', then maybe.
I try not to comment more than once, but, question:If I already live nearby, do I still need to stay at the hotel?
Not necessarily. I mean, tbh, I think most people do, even if they're local, just because it makes things easier (especially if you're wearing multiple costumes in a day). It also allows you more opportunity to hang out after the evening's activities. But if you're close enough, then it would save a lot of money to stay at home!
I wish I could go!
I can’t believe they picked that theme. Lol
Right? What were they thinking? 🤦♀️
Do you know if registration is capped or limited? About how many people are usually there?
It's capped at about 700 attendees. I don't know if it's ever sold out in advance, though you do have to register by June 15th. And I'm not sure of the actual average attendee count, but I want to say it may be around 600? There seems to be more people every year.
What's that scholarship thing you mentioned? Do they have digital events? Traveling is very difficult for me.
They offer need and merit based scholarships. There's none for this year, since they were the people who were awarded them a couple years ago, but I believe the info for applying for next year is on the Costume College website. And I don't believe they're doing any digital events this year.
Lady Rebecca, How many people usually go to Costume College?
It's capped at 700, but I don't think it usually sells out, so I would guess somewhere in the 500-600 range?
🇨🇦😃
Är don’t live in US sig What lol
What an AWFUL theme! Aren't we facing enough doom and gloom in the real world? Something fun and frivolous is what's needed!
Right?!
Guilded age.
I don't know. I kinda like builder age.