I have had a long-term interest in the costumes worn by movie characters, especially those associated with science fiction and fantasy dramas. The movies and shows I found most inspirational for my Major Textiles Project were ‘Jupiter Ascending’, ‘Game of Thrones’ and ‘Arrow’ because I like the complex plots that portray certain stereotypes such as villains in a variety of ways. I am fascinated by the rich detail and straight-line gowns that these characters wear. From a very young age I understood the importance of costuming in identifying good and bad characters in movies. For example, in ‘Toy Story 2’ I knew that Zurg was a baddie because his coat had ‘baddie’ style collars. Ie, high stiff collars with pointed tips. As I have grown older, I understand a range of different costuming features that help define the character long before their role in the plot has been revealed. In my leisure time I like to attend medieval fairs in costume as a member of a choreographed sword fighting troupe and I participate in LARPing (Live Action Role Playing). In these activities people dress up to reflect the nature of their chosen character. Through taking part in these activities I’ve developed a keen sense of how the right costume can make a statement and help to frame the character’s role. I particularly love the long, flowing garments that people wear in medieval settings.