What are Couture Sewing & Custom Design?

"We must overcome the notion that we must be regular.
It robs you of your chance to be extraordinary."    ~Uta Hagen

"Couture" is a a French word translating literally to "by hand."  Couture sewing essentially refers to anything that has been designed and sewn to an individual’s specifications and measurements.  It can also refer to many of the techniques that are the hallmarks of haute couture, including making toiles for custom fit, thread-tracing, hand-stitching, underlining and more, that are key to the intricacies of a well-made bespoke garment.

I like to call my work 'light couture.'  I do employ these techniques when needed while also keeping in mind time frames and budgets. I consider educating to be a key facet of my role, as I am frequently introducing new fibers or design ideas to clients considering custom garments.

Custom design is taking the specific needs and preferences of a client and translating them into a flattering design fit to their unique body. This process is a collaboration requiring clarity of vision, clear communication, and patience. It does not give the fleeting high of off-the-rack buying; instead it offers the building of a trusted relationship between client and maker in which both benefit, and the resulting garment is made meaningful in a personal, enduring way.