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By Imani Capri
Harold Crawford, a legendary Hollywood wardrobe costumer and resident of Cleveland, will be honored in Palm Springs for his remarkable contributions to the entertainment industry. His creativity, passion, attention to detail, and dedication to his craft have made him a sought-after talent for over fifty years.
Crawford’s journey into fashion was ignited by his parents, a seamstress, and a tailor, instilling in him a lifelong love for clothing and design.
Affectionately known as Rags, Crawford graduated from the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles in 1970. At just 19 years old, he embarked on his career at Universal Studios, becoming one of the pioneering Black wardrobe customers in Hollywood and among the first 26 students of FIDM. Despite facing obstacles, including racism, Crawford persevered, citing his passion for the craft as his driving force.
Throughout his illustrious career spanning over five decades, Crawford has lent his talents to numerous film, television, and theater productions. His credits include notable works such as Men of Honor, Swordfish, King, Cornbread Earl and Me, and A Woman Called Moses (in film), Everybody Hates Chris, Living Single, The Incredible Hulk, Young and The Restless, and The Academy Awards on television.
Among his many accomplishments, Crawford’s notable theater credit includes serving as wardrobe costumer for Robert Guillaume, the first Black actor to portray the title role in Phantom of The Opera.
Now, Crawford’s extraordinary journey culminates in the honor of receiving a star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars in 2025, marking him as the first Black pioneer in costuming to be recognized with such a distinction. This momentous occasion is not only a tribute to Crawford’s achievements but a celebration of diversity and excellence in the entertainment industry.
Neal Hodges, Chairman of the Star for Harold Crawford Project Committee, underscores the significance of this honor for Crawford, the film industry, and the communities of Cleveland and Palm Springs. He emphasizes the opportunity to create a sustainable partnership between the two cities through tourism and the arts.
More than 400 celebrities, including icons like Ginger Rogers, Bob Hope, Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, Liberace, James Earl Jones, Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, and Sonny Bono have been commemorated on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars.
For further information about Harold Crawford and the fundraising efforts for his star, visit his GoFundMe page, A Star in Palm Springs for Harold Crawford, or contact stylebycrawford@gmail.com.