History of Costume Factory

Costume Factory has been bringing characters to life for almost 50 years. From our humble beginnings in Kilsyth, Victoria, in 1979, we have grown to become one of the southern hemisphere’s premier suppliers of costumes, wigs, and theatrical hire. Formerly known as J.C. Westend, our store has long been a cornerstone of Melbourne’s creative scene, providing thousands of costumes, wigs, accessories, and makeup for parties, productions, and special events.

Supplying Australia’s Stage & Screen

Our store holds Victoria’s largest range of costumes, wigs, and makeup, servicing schools, universities, professional and non-professional theatre companies, film productions, and corporate events. Each year, we outfit the casts of hundreds of productions across Australia, from school plays and VCE monologues to large-scale musicals and opera.

In the past year alone, we have costumed over 250 shows, with many schools and companies returning to us annually for our unmatched range and expertise. No job is too big or too small - our extensive collection includes wigs, shoes, gloves, jewellery, hats, corsets, and detailed garments to complete every character.

A Reputation for Experience & Advice

Beyond Melbourne, our reputation for excellence has seen us supply productions interstate. For example, we provided over 150 costumes and powdered wigs for the Cairns Little Theatre production of Amadeus, dressing the entire cast from afar.

We also offer special packages for VCE Monologue Costume Hire, helping students step into character with professional costuming to “nail that role.”

Just a Few of Our Productions

Over the years, Costume Factory has proudly supplied costumes for an incredible variety of productions, including:

• Les Misérables – Camberwell Grammar, Wonthaggi Theatre Group

• La Bohème – Melbourne Opera

• Amadeus – Cairns Little Theatre

• Cabaret – Broadford Theatre Company

• The Crucible – Eagles Nest Theatre

• Our Country’s Good – Scotch College

• Othello – Melbourne Grammar

• The Importance of Being Earnest – Wesley College

• Seussical – Lowther Hall

• Much Ado About Nothing – Wesley College

• Oh What a Lovely War! – Swinburne University of Technology

• …and many more.

Why Choose Us

With nearly five decades of experience, Costume Factory is more than a costume hire store - it’s a trusted creative partner for theatre companies, schools, film studios, and anyone looking to transform their look for a special event.

We’d be delighted to discuss your requirements and help you bring your production, event, or performance to life.