The art of age.

Distressing is often the final touch before the costume hits the stage. It supports the designer's storytelling, and melds the piece with the world. And in the best of worlds, it looks lived-in and adds to the costume, and you don't say "Wow! Look at the distressing!"

Big Love, Designed by Sully Ratke. Photo by Justin Barbin

Big Love, Designed by Sully Ratke. Photo by Justin Barbin

20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Designed by Sully Ratke, Photo by Liz Lauren

20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Designed by Sully Ratke, Photo by Liz Lauren

Second Skin, designed by Anna Wooden

Oliver, Designed by Sally Dolembo. Photo by Liz Lauren

Newsies, Designed by Sally Dolembo. Photo by Liz Lauren

Newsies, Designed by Sally Dolembo. Photo by Liz Lauren

Newsies, Designed by Sally Dolembo. Photo by Liz Lauren

20,000 Leagues Under the Sea designed by Sully Ratke