Tailors, Dressmakers, and Custom Sewers

About the Role

Tailors, dressmakers, and custom sewers create, alter, and repair garments and other textile products tailored to individual client specifications.

Other Common Titles

Fashion Designer
Costume Designer
Custom Clothing Specialist
Seamstress
Alterations Specialist

Typical Tasks

Consult with clients to understand preferences and requirements
Take measurements to ensure a proper fit
Design patterns and select appropriate fabrics
Cut fabric pieces according to patterns
Sew garments together, incorporating details like zippers and trims
Alter existing garments to improve fit or update style
Perform quality checks to ensure the finished product meets standards
Provide post-sale services such as repairs or adjustments

Notable People

Coco Chanel – Revolutionized women’s fashion with her timeless designs and the concept of casual elegance.
Christian Dior – Known for his iconic 'New Look' silhouette in the post-World War II era.
Oleg Cassini – Famous for designing the wedding dress of Jacqueline Kennedy.

Recommended Resources

The Art of Sewing
A comprehensive guide to sewing techniques, covering everything from basic stitches to advanced garment construction.
Sewing with Nancy
A long-running series that offers sewing tips, techniques, and projects for sewists of all levels.
Craftsy
An online platform featuring sewing classes and tutorials from expert instructors.