Thanks, I Made It!

For those of you that understand the process of sewing your own clothes, you can totally relate when I express that one of the most rewarding things about creating a handmade wardrobe is those moments when someone compliments you on what you’re wearing and you can reply, “Thanks, I made it”. There is a feeling of creative satisfaction and self-expression that is unparalleled. To have a vision of how you want to look and then successfully bring it to life allows you to not only express your personal style but also allows you to use your creative gifts and talents in a personally fulfilling way.

A question that I often get asked now that many people know that I make my own clothes is “Did you make that?” If I did make it, then in rushes that feeling of personal accomplishment I get when sharing that yes, I did make it. But if I didn’t, my mind immediately goes to who did and I get such a kick out of someone thinking that I designed and sewed an outfit made by Ralph Lauren, Diane von Furstenberg, or Halston. Their question reminds me that I have been doing this for a while and I have a gotten quite skilled at this sewing thing. Out loud, I will reply “No, I didn’t make this one.” while in my head I often think “but, I could have” (wink).

So, the topic comes up- when to sew versus when to buy. I thought I’d share some things that I like to consider when deciding whether I will make or buy my next garment when planning for my dream, curated wardrobe:

I will choose to sew when:

·       I have a very specific idea regarding a garment’s color, fabric, or style. It is easier to find the fabric and pattern match than it would be to hunt for a garment that may only exist in my imagination. Plus, when my vision is very specific, it’s way more fun to bring it to life than it would be to buy it.

·       I’ll sew when I want to create a special, standout piece- like making one outstanding blazer that will go with several garments in my closet. I will also choose to make a dress for a special occasion or that expresses my style perfectly.

·       I’ll sew if I find an incredible piece of fabric that suits my style and can envision a perfect plan for it’s use. Cue my heart leaping with excitement saying “That will make the perfect caftan, wrap dress, etc.!”

·       I’ll sew if I can’t find what I am looking for in the stores. Because I sew based on my own style and preferences, if the style or color I want is not in season or is vintage inspired (which I love), I will gladly sew since it’s not available in ready to wear.

Sometimes, I find that it’s actually better not to sew. Here is my thought process when deciding if it makes more sense to buy:

·       If it’s easily accessible in ready to wear, I’d rather just buy it. Examples include khaki pants, jeans, white button-down shirts, navy or black blazers, activewear. They are everywhere, every season- so the time and money I would invest in creating it myself isn’t worth it to me. Just because I can sew it doesn’t mean I have to.

·       I will buy a garment that is overly time consuming to make if it doesn’t fit in with my family or work schedule. Sure, I could make a tailored trench coat, but that would take forever and they are available pretty much anywhere you go. Just google “beige trench coat” and you’ll have search results for days. In this case, I’ll buy it.

·       I will buy a garment if the style and quality are to my liking and it fills a need in my wardrobe. I am always working to develop a wardrobe that aligns with my lifestyle and expresses my tastes so if I find something that is in alignment when I am shopping, as long as it meets my standards in quality, I will buy it.

For me, knowing that a garment is one-of-a kind gives it a feeling of exclusivity but more importantly, it’s a chance for me to express myself through my sense of style and my craft. When I am wardrobe planning, things like color and versatility matter to me and I am also big on quality. If the garment isn’t great quality or made with great fabric, I won’t buy it.

The last thing that I consider is when deciding if I will sew or buy something is asking myself is if I am excited about the project.  Sewing has a slow fashion component to it and requires time and money to bring your dream garments to life, so you need to be excited about the garment in all phases of production. If it’s not going to bring you joy when you are planning, constructing, and wearing it, you may want to consider buying it. Do you have any custom, handmade pieces in your wardrobe? If yes, what is it? If not, what one-of-a-kind garment would you love to incorporate into your closet? Let me know. I’d love to hear.