Meet Antoinette Messam | Costume Designer for film and television

We had the good fortune of connecting with Antoinette Messam and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Antoinette, what role has risk played in your life or career?
“I have always been a risk-taker, and I genuinely believe that the risks I’ve taken have been instrumental in shaping my career and personal growth. Whether it was starting a clothing line in my thirties, two decades after leaving fashion school, or investing in a restaurant, each decision has empowered me and contributed to my growth. These experiences have made me stronger, more resilient, and more creative, directly enriching my work as a Costume Designer, a career that truly fulfills me.”

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Costume Designers are artists, and it’s a role we hope more people will come to recognize as a true art form.

As a Costume Designer, my job is to make characters believable. Each time I’m hired, I embrace the challenge wholeheartedly. When the project is complete and I see the final cut, I feel immense pride in what my team and I have accomplished. If the costumes help tell the story, then I know I’ve done my job well.

My path to becoming a Costume Designer was unconventional. I began as a stylist, transitioning from fashion to film by working as a buyer on a TV series. A designer I worked with recognized something in me and recommended me for a series about an urban band. That was the moment I knew I was hooked. I fell in love with the process—taking what’s on the written page and bringing it to life through costumes. The hours were long, and the work was demanding, but I loved it. More than 30 years later, I’m still here, still passionate, and still excited by the magic of storytelling through design.

Over the years, I’ve learned patience, team management, and the art of aging and dying costumes to suit a story’s needs. Time management has become one of my greatest strengths, though I’m still working on getting enough sleep!

As the granddaughter of a tailor and the daughter of a seamstress from Montego Bay, Jamaica, I’m deeply proud of my heritage. It’s an honor to be considered a role model in the country of my birth and to serve as a mentor for junior Costume Designers.

With credits including Creed, Superfly, The Harder They Fall, Lift, and The Book of Clarence, I feel like I’m just getting started.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
What’s amazing about Los Angeles is that it truly offers something for everyone. When I host a friend, I love taking them to places they might miss on a typical Hollywood tour.

First, we’d visit the Hollywood Castle, a stunning mansion perched above the Hollywood Hills. This hidden gem feels like a magical escape yet is just minutes from the bustling heart of Hollywood.

For brunch, we’d head to the rooftop of the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills. The food is excellent, but the real star is the breathtaking view—it’s a must-see.

Downtown Los Angeles is another highlight. We’d explore the Art Walk, wandering through local galleries and artist studios, soaking in the creativity. Then we’d switch it up with some shopping at Santee Alley, a vibrant and lively spot that’s a downtown staple.

If there’s a great act at the Hollywood Bowl, we’d make a night of it. Packing a picnic basket with goodies and bubbly, we’d enjoy the live show under the stars.

No trip would be complete without a drive up the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) toward Santa Barbara. Along the way, we’d stop for a peaceful walk along a quiet beach, perhaps Leo Carrillo State Beach, one of my favorites.

Closer to home, I’d show them my neighborhood, Wilshire Vista Heights. We’d start the day with breakfast and great coffee at Bloom, a fantastic local spot. After a full day of sightseeing, we might return with a bottle of wine for a cozy dinner, the perfect way to unwind.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
“I’d love to give a heartfelt shoutout to two incredible women who have supported my journey to Los Angeles and played a pivotal role in my transition.

First, Joanna Bacalso, a dear friend and fellow Toronto expat, welcomed me with open arms. She not only opened her home to me but also shared invaluable advice on navigating life in a new country. Joanna inspired me with her creative spirit and adventurous projects, and as a bonus, she became the best galavanting partner I could ask for. In so many ways, Joanna and her family became my LA family.

Second, Brigitta Romanov, the Executive Director of the Costume Designers Guild IATSE Local 892, has fiercely advocated for Costume Designers and our rights. Through her unwavering dedication, she has educated and empowered so many of us in the Guild, offering guidance and tools to help us thrive. Brigitta’s support during challenging times has been instrumental in helping my peers and me grow and excel as Costume Designers.

To both Joanna and Brigitta, I am deeply grateful for your encouragement, wisdom, and friendship, you’ve both made my journey all the more meaningful.”

Website: https://www.antoinettemessam.com

Instagram: @therealantoinettemessam

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinette-messam-4781391b/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@antoinettemessam7989

Image Credits
Janice Reid
Moris Puccio