I have been sewing for the last 25 years. Starting when my children were small, making children’s clothes, men’s shirts and soft furnishings (ranging from cushions and curtains to picnic and baby blankets).

I continued to sew over the years. As I enjoyed my ‘hobby’, in 2011 I undertook a Pattern Drafting course at college so that I could understand what to do to a pattern if it wasn’t the right size or shape for someone. I am now qualified to make garment patterns as in June 2012 I received my ABC Level 2 certificate in Fashion and Textiles (Pattern Cutting).

I enjoyed this course so much, that I undertook another course at college, and in June 2013 passed the ABC Level 2 in Fashion Garment Construction - turning me into a skilled custom dressmaker.

Although I could already make high quality garments, these recent courses have given me an insight into Industry Techniques, and have accentuated my abilities even further.

I have an embroidery machine, and using this to personalise garments even more, make the clothes look so special and unique. All the garments are fully lined and involve some hand stitching showing great attention to detail and finesse!

It was in January 2013 that I realised, having done so much sewing over the years for family and friends. That I should take my hobby a step further and start my own dressmaking business.

I began to make dresses that would show my abilities, which could be put on my website. Please have a look at them and then read on to discover more about what English Elegance can offer you.