Youtube Tutorials (Free)
Easy to follow tutorials for evening gowns
Wide range of tutorials for evening gowns and draping.
Fashion critiques and history
Everything you need to know - from the industry to fashion illustrations
All the basic to intermediate sewing you need to know.
Online Courses for Corsets and Wedding Gowns
I learnt from Corset Academy. They have a good range of different wedding gowns and corsets. The subscription is also affordable compared to other courses. Below are some more great options for corset making but they are more expensive - ($150 USD) for 1 course.
Equipment and Tools
These adjustable mannequins are useful for client work because you can adjust the size to fit their measurements. Make sure to measure after adjusting the dials as it is not the most accurate.
A rotary blade and cutting mat combo is great for cutting slippery fabric such as silk or viscose. Weigh the pattern pieces or ruler down and cut along the edges. The fabric won't be lifted or shift out of place unlike using scissors.
Great pins to have for delicate fabric like silks and chiffons. They are finer than regular sewing pins and will glide right through the fabric without leaving any marks afterwards. If you're lazy, you can also leave them in while sewing.
Invisible Zipper Foot
A must-have for sewing invisible zippers. Find one to fit your machine. On the same note, look into different machine feet and see how they can benefit your sewing. They're relatively inexpensive and can make a huge difference. I also use the narrow foot and the gathering foot often.
Advice for Starting your Own Brand
Fashion School
I do not believe it is necessary to study fashion at university in order to be a successful designer. You can learn and make connections on your own. It just depends on your learning method - if you prefer structured learning or self learning.
Marketing
It is important to learn about marketing in order to grow your business.
Some general tips I used:
Find a niche
A specialty that sets you apart. This is what you'll be known for. As you grow, you can introduce more specialties that will suit your market.
Set out your brand values
What is the purpose and what do you care about as a brand? This will give people a reason to stay loyal to you. Eg. sustainability, women empowerment etc.
Understand your niche market
Do research on your audience. What is their age, geographic location, other interests, purchasing, or online behaviour.
Leverage social media
Create quality content eg. behind the scenes videos, and adapt that content to fit Instagram, Tiktok, Pinterest, etc. Be authentic and transparent.
Collaborate
With influencers or bloggers who fit with your brand aesthetic and values. Make sure to see their stats and whether or not their audience is right for your brand.
Before you start, you must be willing to put in the work, the hours, and deal with failures.
I would recommend watching Gary Vee if you haven't already.
