The Costume Society of America fosters an understanding of appearance and dress practices of people across the globe through research, education, preservation, and design. Our network of members studies the past, examines the present, and anticipates the future of clothing and fashion. 

Keynote speakers in the past include award-winning costume designers, researchers, authors, curators, and scholars, with themes ranging from innovative design and exhibit mounting, creation and execution of museum exhibits, fashion theory, clothing and fashion as a form of social justice, and new discoveries in research and technology.

The CSA Angels Project is a one-day event, held each year near the site of the CSA National Symposium, which provides conservation, storage and curatorial assistance to a costume collection at a small institution.

Volunteer opportunities are available in areas such as silent auction receiving, setup, and tear-down; pre- and post-symposium tour logistics; registration; the Angels Project. Please email the Symposium Committee at symposium@costumesocietyamerica.com if you are interested in learning more.

Student and Emerging Professional discount memberships and registration are available.

If you are interested in submitting research or design abstracts in the field of dress, the deadline for submissions is October 1, 2022. More information and the official call for research can be found HERE, or you may email the Abstracts Committee at abstractscommittee@costumesocietyamerica.com.

Local artisans and makers are strongly encouraged to participate in our symposium marketplace. More information re fees and time will be available HERE. We are also seeking local sponsors. Potential sponsors and marketplace vendors may email sponsorships@costumesocietyamerica.com with questions.

The Costume Society of America network of members studies the past, examines the present, and anticipates the future of clothing and fashion. We, as an organization, commit to eliminate discrimination and provide equitable treatment of all members and those affiliated with CSA. We aim to reject white supremacy, ableism, ageism, homophobia, transphobia, fat phobia, xenophobia and other biases in the organization’s future practices. We pledge to provide and maintain a community that respects all races, genders, sexual orientations, religious affiliations, abilities, nationalities, and ethnicities.