Though they sometimes go unnoticed, costume designers play a crucial role in the world of fashion, tv, and film. Batman, Superman, or Sofia the First donned some globally noticeable costumes that easily identify specific characters. This is possible only because of the creative minds behind these iconic outfits.
PinJu Wang is a highly skilled costume designer responsible for some of the top outfits you see on screen. The Taiwanese designer is widely recognized for her authentic and creative mindset fit for TV, movie, and stage productions. Wang’s unmatched eye for unique wardrobe elements and set props make her the go-to designer for several directors in the country. Many of the people she has worked with recognize her ability to easily bring out a character or setting.
Based in Los Angeles, Wang has had the opportunity to work with various talents in the film industry, such as the Momma Bird feature, which was awarded best horror at the Dilemmatic Screenplay Contest and best horror at the World Series of Screenwriting. It was also recognized at the Oaxaca Film Festival and Austin Film Festival. Her other career highlights include working on a Cocomelon commercial and commercials for Samsung, Mini Foodies, My little Pony (assisted), Mini Brands, and Marvel (assisted), among many others.
Aside from her talent and skill, Wang commands the industry’s attention thanks to her work ethic. She is known as a hardworking and passionate designer who will settle for nothing but the best for her clients. The former make-up artist turned costume designer also commands mastery of various languages.
“I speak five languages, Chinese, Japanese, Taiwanese, English, and Cantonese. Knowing different languages has been impactful for my career, as it helps me interact with clients from different countries,” Wang explains.
Though an exciting career, Wang says it’s a journey with challenges like any other. She has faced many, but they haven’t stopped her from making a name for herself and using these hard times as learning curves. Working on low-budget films has given her invaluable experience, handling everything herself, from conceptualization to shopping and returning.
But despite the demanding nature of these experiences, Wang says they were interesting times where she got to challenge her potential. According to her, it’s only during these times that you get to push your limits, ensuring everything falls into place. The lesson Wang has learned is that you have to continue to work on what you believe in despite the hurdles you have to get over in life. She wants everyone to know that success results from all the small sacrifices and wins you gain, so never give up. Instead, keep learning from your mistakes and ensure you don’t repeat the same ones twice.
With a dream to become an industry legend, Wang eyes joining IATSE 705 and getting to work with other talents. She has recently finished her fourth feature film, Hide, a thriller she believes will set the pace for her moving forward.
