Why make custom clothing?

I hear this a lot: Why make custom clothing, after all, isn’t it cheaper just to buy it at the store?

Yes, box store clothing is cheaper. It is mass produced using a pattern in a size that they feel suits everyone, but the truth is that not everyone is built the same. My granddaughter, for example, is tall for age 6, and usually needs a size 7 in length. My grandson is smaller in the waist and needs a size 6, but then, they aren’t long enough. I need a certain size in the waist, but my bottom doesn’t fill out the pants.

Box store clothing assumes everyone fits one simple size, but that is far from the truth. Many times box store items have to be altered to fit and because of this, you are paying extra (unless you know how to do this yourself) to have your “cheaper” clothing fit you right.

A custom garment is one that is tailored to fit your body and your body type. It isn’t a one size fits all. I do create items that are a one size, but if someone contacts me and says, “Hey, my daughter is little shorter, is it possible to have this dress made, but have the length shortened?” It’s no problem and probably cheaper. Why? Because I’m altering the pattern and not the garment.

When you alter the pattern, you are doing everything at the beginning of the process. There’s minimal extra cost in that. I have to lay out the pattern and cut the pieces out. This is for every garment I make. I don’t mass produce items. I generally make them as I sell them. So there’s an amount of time that I have that I create the garment and that is figured into the price.

Store bought dress:	My custom dress:
Cost: $12	Cost: $30-35
Alteration costs: $30	Alteration costs: $0
Total: $42	Total: $30-35

Alterations have an hourly cost because you have to take it apart and sew it back together. If it is complicated, that’s going to require more time. Delicate fabric? More time. There are just so many factors!

With a custom dress, just like with a garment with alteration, the end result is a garment that was made exactly for your body. It is beautiful, sleek, and flattering.