Dressmaker

What do dressmaker do?

Dressmakers are tailors who specialize in clothing for female people, that is, dresses and other garments traditionally designed for female people. What distinguishes dressmakers from regular tailors is their expertise and focus on materials and techniques typical of women's clothing, such as lace, embroidery, beading, and sequins. A very common and lucrative focus for dressmakers is wedding and prom dresses. In the theater, film, and television industries, tailors are often hired to make costumes for productions. These costumes are often designed by costume designers.

What do dressmakers need to know?

As a dressmaker, you must be proficient in the art of tailoring and have a keen interest and appreciation for beautiful fabrics and materials, as well as knowledge of a wide range of creative techniques. In film, television, and theater, you'll also need a thorough knowledge of fashion and clothing history to know how garments were made in the past to give costumes a contemporary look. In addition to skill, patience is an important quality, as the tasks are often very time-consuming. Tailoring is an apprenticeship and you can work your way up with additional qualifications and work experience. 

Source: StagePool, Tillskärarakademien