Unless you have been living under a rock, you have definitely taken notice of the immense popularity of AMC’s The Walking Dead. This show has captured the hearts (and brains) of zombie-loving horror fans all around the world. Not only is the show a hit on the TV screen, but it has also generated a ton of buzz on social media. I personally love this show and obviously I love social media, so I wanted to learn more about what it's like to be a part of this juggernaut while also being an active social user. Most people know the names Norman Reedus and Andrew Lincoln, but one name you might not know (but should) is Eulyn Womble. Eulyn designs the dead as the Costume Designer for AMC’s The Walking Dead and is amazing at what she does. Every costume piece on the show was created with care and destructed with love. I was lucky enough to connect with her while she was tweeting during an episode of the show and we kept in contact for the last few months. In anticipation of The Walking Dead’s season premiere on October 13, I had asked Eulyn if she would be interested in answering some questions about how she personally and professionally uses social media and she was awesome enough to agree. Take a peek at what she had to say!
Q: Do you use social media in your profession and how do you manage your accounts?
A: I DO. For research and inspiration. I love taking TWITTER BREAKS. Connecting with the fans on a busy day at work reminds me of WHY I AM THERE WORKING SO HARD. The Walking Dead fans are incredibly attentive to anything and everything to do with the show. Some of the FAN ART that I've received is absolutely incredible.
Q: Is it difficult being associated with a brand as big as The Walking Dead and being active on social media channels? How do you manage to keep up with the conversation?
A: NO, it's not difficult being associated with The Walking Dead. I have been afforded a dream job and an amazing opportunity. I love knowing what people have to say about our show. I keep up with conversations on social media that I find interesting. I am amazed at how the fans keep up with details- keeps us on our toes! I love answering costume questions, even the one's that challenge my choices. It's great to be acknowledged for a job well done and twitter fans are always full of compliments for my work. There is criticism, but I stand firmly behind my designs, so they don't affect me too badly.
Q: Do you use Pinterest and Instagram? If so, how has your experience been so far?
A: I love PINTEREST. It is so much fun creating boards dealing with all of my different interests. I can't imagine throwing another party without it! People are brilliant, necessity truly is the mother of invention and I love how people re-purpose and recycle everything. I am a photographer, so I really enjoy INSTAGRAM. I am absolutely inspired by other photographers and it's a great way to keep up with friends.
Q: What advice would you give aspiring costume designers on how to promote their work via social media?
A: An EASY to understand website is essential!
Q: What project are you most proud of and why?
A: I am proud of my work on The Walking Dead. Though the clothing is contemporary, I try not to use anything 'off the rack'. So much work goes into each and every piece. I've made the dirt and grime a part of the design and I often get my hands dirty.
Q: If Facebook & Twitter were in the zombie apocalypse, which would survive longer?
A: FACEBOOK … NO TWITTER …. NO FACEBOOK FOR SURE …. OR MAYBE TWITTER? Twitter is up to the minute information from anywhere in the world.
Q: If you had the option to change the costume of any character from your current project, who would it be and why?
A: I do such intensive character study when designing and shopping for a character. I run my ideas by the producers. I meet with the actor … we have a fitting. It's decided! So no, I like where we are with each and every character - no regrets. Look at CAROL, how she has evolved in these four seasons. Her appearance reflects her mental state.
Q: Have you ever gotten inspiration for a costume design from a social media site?
A: Not really and of course! I draw inspiration from everywhere. I love paging through LOOKBOOK for inspiration. Street fashion is so creative. Growing up in South Africa, we had to be creative with our clothing. We didn't have access to many stores.
I really want to thank Eulyn for taking the time out to answer these questions. With The Walking Dead’s Season 4 premier on October 13th, she has been incredibly busy but still found the time to help us out. All of us here at THAT Agency are huge fans of Eulyn and her work. Was there anything you wanted to know about Eulyn or The Walking Dead that we didn’t ask? Tell us in the comment section!
