Wardrobes are now often hired complete from the costume and masquerade shops.

The theatrical costumier has become an independent functionary, boasting an establishment of his own, detached from the theatre.

Costume plays are not much in vogue now, and in dramas dealing with life and society at the present date, the actors are understood to provide their own attire.

Moreover, there is now little varying of the programme, and, in consequence, little demand upon the stock wardrobe of the playhouse.

Still, when in theatres of any pretension, entertainments in the nature of spectacles or pantomimes are in course of preparation, there is much stir in the wardrobe department.