Carter’s unparalleled ability to create fully realized, dimensional characters through her costumes has made her one of the most sought after and renowned designers today. Known for her research and creativity, Carter has been honored with two Academy Award nominations for her outstanding work in the period ensemble films Amistad, directed by Steven Spielberg, and Malcolm X, directed by Spike Lee. Carter also earned an Emmy Award nomination in 2016 for the remake of the miniseries Roots. In 2019, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences awarded Carter the Academy Award for Best Costume Design for the film Black Panther.