In this inspiring interview on The Voice of Costume, host Catherine Baumgardner talks with acclaimed costume designer Lynn Ollie about her creative evolution from sketching fashion plates as a child to working for major productions like Black Panther, Mad Men, and The Great Gatsby. Lynn opens up about discovering her passion for storytelling through costume, her mentorship from legendary designer Ann Roth, and how persistence and curiosity helped her break into the film industry.

She shares behind-the-scenes stories from “The Man in My Basement,” including collaborating with Corey Hawkins, Willem Dafoe, and director Nadia Latif, recreating authentic 1990s Long Island style, and improvising through last-minute wardrobe crises.

Lynn also discusses her creative philosophy—how costume design bridges character psychology, history, and visual poetry. From the gritty realism of American Horror Stories to the cultural symbolism of Black Panther, she reveals the emotional truth behind every fabric choice.

Filled with wisdom for aspiring costume designers, filmmakers, and creatives, this episode explores the art of collaboration, the balance of vision and budget, and why costume design is truly storytelling through texture, color, and time.

Watch more episodes on youtube: @voiceofcostume

The “Voice of Costume” is the first podcast created between working costume designers sharing stories, inspiration, struggles, and insights into the creative career of costume design. A behind-the-scenes podcast to showcase the voices of Costume Designers around the world. Listen in on this inspirational, one-on-one conversation between Kathleen and Catherine Baumgardner.

Audio available wherever you get podcasts.

https://voiceofcostume.com/