The Art of Tailoring:A Sustainable and Sentimental Approach to Clothing
I have a lot of clothes that I don’t really reach for, but I keep them because I like them. The problem? I’m very small—just under five feet tall—so a lot of clothing doesn’t naturally fit me the way it should. Hems are too long, sleeves are too big, and waistlines don’t always hit at the right spot.
Whenever I need to hem or fix something, I go to my mom’s because she’s an amazing sewer. She made all of my skating dresses when I was growing up, and she has such skill, imagination, and creativity to bring any garment to life. A lot of the clothing I wore when I was younger was either tailored or made by her, so naturally, when something doesn’t fit me properly, I turn to her. And every time, it becomes a bonding experience.
While we’re sewing, my mom shares stories about how she learned to sew, why she started, and how her grandmother and mother taught her. She told me how they used a mechanical sewing machine that had to be cranked by hand—so much effort compared to today’s electric machines! Sewing together isn’t just about fixing my clothes; it’s about preserving tradition, learning from her, and appreciating the skills passed down through generations.
The Environmental Benefits of Tailoring
Repurposing clothes this way is not only meaningful but also environmentally friendly. Instead of buying new clothes when something doesn’t fit quite right, I make the most of what I already have. Altering or tailoring clothing extends its lifespan, reduces textile waste, and minimizes the demand for new clothing production—which often involves excessive water use, pollution, and unethical labor practices.
Think about it: every piece of clothing that gets tailored instead of discarded is one less item ending up in landfills. Fast fashion has created a culture of overconsumption, where clothes are seen as disposable. But when we take the time to mend, adjust, or reimagine our garments, we’re rejecting that cycle and embracing a more sustainable way of living.
Making Your Closet Work for You
If you have clothes in your closet that you love but never wear because they don’t fit quite right, take a moment to consider tailoring them. You can bring them to a tailor, ask a friend or relative who knows how to sew, or even learn to do it yourself. And in the process, you might get to know their stories—how they learned to sew, why they love it, and what they’ve created over the years. In that sense, your clothes will carry more than just fabric; they’ll carry stories, memories, and a deeper appreciation for the art of making things last.
My mom made these tote bags…
My mom has sent me so many photos of projects she’s worked on using scrap materials—she truly is a DIY queen. She sews everything she can, and over the years, she’s created so many beautiful and practical things. Sewing is such a great way to be self-sufficient, creative, and sustainable
and aprons
So, before you go out and buy something new, take a look in your closet. See if there’s something you can tweak, adjust, or completely transform into a piece you’ll actually wear. You’ll not only save money and reduce waste but also create something truly unique—maybe even with the help of someone special.
