The Academy Award for Best Costume Design, introduced in 1949 at the 21st Academy Awards, is presented annually for the best achievement in costume design in a film from the previous year.
From 1949–1967—with the exception of 1958–1959—two separate awards were given for color and black-and-white films.
Sorted Chronologically by Awards Year. Winners in BOLD. Acceptance speech linked in Notes (where available).
UPDATED: May 2026
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AWARD RECORDS:
Most Awards: Edith Head (8)
Most Nominations: Edith Head (35)
Most Nominations Without a Win: Patricia Norris (6)
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CATEGORY NAME HISTORY:
1949–1957: Costume Design: (Black & White) & (Color)
1958–1959: Costume Design
1960–1967: Costume Design: (Black & White) & (Color)
1968–Present: Costume Design