Measurement Charts :  I find it so much easier to use a generic electronic chart that can be amended as and when required,  It beats posting all those paper charts. Feel free to use mine if you want, click for  Ladies  and  Gents :

The cast themselves i.e age and size. It's no good booking a set of costumes without regard to individuals. For example if someone prefers to tell you their vital statistics instead of letting you measure them, then add on a few inches.  They will never know and it will save a last minute panic if the costume won't fit.  It's better to take something in than it be too small!  Remember discretion is the word.

Consult with the Producer and Director.  Their ideas may differ from yours and it's best to find out now!

Costume Plot:  If there is one, use it. If there isn't you're in for a lot of hard work! Read through the Libretto from start to finish. Find out when each character enters and note what they're wearing.  Is it Summer, winter, morning or evening? Look out for accessories. Is there a bag to carry? Should they wear gloves, cape or hat?  Painstakingly go through the whole Lib noting what the chorus should be wearing as well as the principles.

Note the period and if wigs are needed keep them to the correct period.  There's trouble in store when men have wigs.  They usually look like scarecrows( the wigs) and need a lot of attention( the men ). 

Care must be taken to get the period right.  It's the whole feel of the age that goes to making a well costumed show.  Watch a DVD of a period film  and note the accessories as well as the dress. Hair makeup and shoes are very important to get the right look.

Play the BBC Costume Game dress a person in period costume and see if you get it right!

Make up and accessories: never assume that the cast will instinctively know what goes with what!  Believe me you need to spell it out or you'll end up with a mishmash of styles and colours, even down to underwear. I've left things to chance and seen thongs on stage... and that's the men!

Quick changes can dictate the type of fasteners on clothing. Zips are by far better than hooks and eyes on dresses and for a gents quick change avoid tight boots.

Timing is of the essence.  Get the measurements to the costumier in plenty of time. That will avoid nasty surprises. e.g. an outsize costume may have to be made up.

Keep within your budget unless you want to answer to the treasurer!  Even better, estimate the cost in advance and request your own budget.

Make your mark!  This is your chance to shine. Don't be afraid to put your own ideas into play