Meet David Méndez Mateu | Costume Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with David Méndez Mateu and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi David, what habits do you feel play an important role in your life?
The key to my success isn’t shrouded in mystery. While creativity, self-belief, mentorship, peer support, and innate talent play crucial roles, the linchpin that binds them all together is perseverance. Although each individual charts a unique course, I staunchly believe that, in the grand scheme of things, hard work is the unequivocal foundation upon which success is built.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Costume design is all about collaboration. The great thing about our work is that it encompasses many different elements: art, painting, history, design, imagination, common sense, interpretation, and craftsmanship, including patternmaking. There are numerous skills you should possess, and you will always be learning, as each project differs from the previous one.

What sets me apart from others is how I believe that respect for tradition can make my work stand out in a moment when everything is focused on the future. Initially, I began my career in menswear for two important reasons: to understand the significance of traditional tailoring and how menswear garments should be crafted from a classic perspective, as well as to develop a focus on attention to detail—a crucial skill when designing for films.

Another traditional approach that I maintain and consider increasingly rare is the use of traditional techniques such as watercolors, pastels, and acrylics in sketching. These techniques are not only rooted in classical learning but also reflect my understanding of costume design. I believe that if you want to design for a film set in a period earlier than today, this knowledge makes more sense. For instance, if you are designing a film set in the 18th century, it makes more sense to present your design using classical techniques that, to a certain extent, better connect with the period than a digital presentation. These qualities not only set me apart but also define the kind of designer I am and aspire to be throughout my career. They also reflect my way of thinking and understanding life.

Challenges can vary depending on the project. For me, the perpetual question is how I can design a project and make it feel unique while aligning with the director’s vision. That’s why I always like to start by sketching what is in my head and then gradually shaping it through research and other processes. Challenges are an integral part of the work, and having a great team surrounding you is essential—they will always be there to help, no matter what.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For me, a must seen place, the most beautiful and inspirng place is The Huntington Library. It have amazing gardens whoch I feel is a must for any creative sould, its beautiful, there are art exhibitons, painting, and history galleries. By no doubt my favorite place in LA. Some other spots are Abbot Kinney in Venice, is a lovely place for walk and see beautiful stores to get inspired, the Chinese theater, one of those theaters that you love for their beauty. Blackwood cafe is a coffe place in Sunset BL

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?
After each experience in life, you realize you achieve something not only through your hard work and passion but also due to the generosity of others. This generosity comes from showing gratefulness, discipline, respect, and consideration for many different things. Some people have helped me with their support, but you have to be aware that you will also encounter some rejections, which are also part of the path to success. And that is what I really think.

However, there are people in the costume design industry who have supported me all the time. Costume designers Deborah Nadoolman Landis and Chrisi Karvonides have contributed immensely to my growth as a designer, shaping me into the designer I am and want to become, and they have witnessed my evolution. As part of my learning process, there are some key books that have impacted me in the way I understand costume design. Some are written by Deborah Landis herself: “ScreenCraft Costume Design,” “Dressed: A Century of Hollywood Costume Design,” “The Design of Ann Roth” by Holly Poe Durbin, and “Broadway & Hollywood: Costumes Designed by Irene Sharaff.” Each of these books showcases brilliant careers and different styles of design.

Website: davidmendezmateu.com

Instagram: davidmendezmateu