Lyric Arts receives many questions about donating clothing to our costume shop. Here is an article on what we need, what we don’t, and how you can donate.
In the Costume Shop, it is a continual process to upgrade our current stock. In addition to creating new costumes for a particular production, we also maintain a collection of vintage clothing. We have wonderful support from our community, which has donated many of the garments you see on stage.
If you are interested in donating clothing items to the theater, here are the criteria that we use to evaluate the items.
For women, we use vintage (30’s-60’s) clothing made of cotton (or blends), rayon, wool, silk or fancies. Items made entirely of polyester are not suitable, due to static electricity problems. As most of the actresses are adult women, the smallest usable size is a (modern) 10. Current day clothing cannot be accepted unless it is either very classic or very unusual in style. Lace-up boots are always needed; they should have a normal sole and up to a 2” heel. These can be any size. We do not currently need winter coats, shoes, or purses. Jewelry items should be large so as to be seen on stage. Useful items include brooches and pendants with visible stones.
For men, we can use vintage suits in size 40 or larger. Tuxedos are needed in size 42 or larger. Men’s hats such as wool felt fedoras or Hamburgs are particularly useful. We also use top hats and newsboy-type caps. These should be a minimum of size 7 ¼, although the larger sizes are especially needed. Men’s zip boots are needed in a size 10 or larger.
Most of the clothing worn by children in productions require specific period costumes. If you have costumes of this nature to donate, they would be useful to Lyric Arts. Lace-up boots are always welcome as well.
Fabric donations are also accepted. We need a minimum of one yard, and the material should be cottons, rayon, wool, silk or fancies.
Thanks to all those who are interested in supporting our Costume Shop. Due to storage constraints, we must evaluate donations carefully. If you have questions about unique donations, please call the theater at 763-433-2510 and we will get you in contact with our Costume Shop Manager, Shannon O’Black, who will contact you as soon as she can. Thank you for your continued support!
