Essential Insights into the Women”s Tailoring Journey in the UK

Essential Insights into the Women’s Tailoring Journey in the UK

The world of tailoring, particularly in the UK, has long been a male-dominated domain, but in recent years, women have been making significant strides and breaking barriers in this traditional craft. Here, we delve into the journeys, challenges, and triumphs of women in the tailoring industry, highlighting key figures, educational initiatives, and the evolving landscape of bespoke tailoring.

The Pioneers: Women in Bespoke Tailoring

One of the most notable figures in the history of women in tailoring is Kathryn Sargent, who in 2016 became the first and only female Master Tailor to open her own shop on the iconic Savile Row. Sargent’s journey is a testament to determination and skill. With over two decades of experience, she had already made history by becoming the first woman to hold the post of Head Cutter at Gieves & Hawkes, one of Savile Row’s oldest houses.

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“When I started in this industry, there were very few women in roles that were client-facing. There were always women in the industry, but behind the scenes. It’s a very unusual industry because we have to deal with customers, and we always have to be available. It’s just a very hard industry to be in as a woman,” Sargent reflects on her early days. However, she notes that she has always been encouraged and supported by her male counterparts in the industry.

Sargent’s latest venture involves expanding her bespoke tailoring services to Edinburgh, where she is blending traditional Scottish textiles with her unique take on British tailoring. This move not only expands her client base but also highlights her commitment to preserving and innovating within the traditions of British tailoring.

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Educational Initiatives and Training

The journey into tailoring for women, or anyone for that matter, is not without its challenges, but it is made easier by the availability of comprehensive educational initiatives. The Tailoring Academy, for instance, has become a beacon for those interested in bespoke tailoring, offering Level 5 Bespoke Cutter and Tailor apprenticeships. This is a significant development, as it is the first training provider nationally to offer such high-level apprenticeships in partnership with the Textile Centre of Excellence.

Key Features of the Apprenticeships

• Funding: £17,000 available for employers to train their staff.
• Training: Statutory off-the-job training delivered by an experienced team of tutors.
• Facilities: State-of-the-art facilities and digital technology for a blended learning approach.
• Scope: Available across all of England, ensuring widespread access to high-quality training.

These apprenticeships are designed to provide practical units, assignments, and online sessions, ensuring that students gain a thorough understanding of bespoke tailoring. This initiative is crucial in bridging the gender gap in the industry by providing equal opportunities for women to enter and excel in tailoring.

The Rise of Women in Fashion and Sewing

Beyond bespoke tailoring, women are making significant contributions to the broader fashion and sewing industries. The rise of DIY sewing and fashion blogs has created a community where women can share their skills, learn from each other, and inspire a new generation of sewers.

Popular Sewing Blogs

• Tilly and the Buttons: Known for easy-to-use sewing patterns and online workshops, this blog is a go-to for beginners and experienced sewers alike.
• Whipstitch: Offers sewing tutorials, clubs, and adventures, building a community around great style, beautiful fabrics, and inspiring influences.
• Sew Liberated: Focuses on slow fashion, sustainability, and mentoring women to view sewing as a practice of self-care.

These blogs and others like them provide a wealth of information, from fabric identification to repair techniques, and serve as a foundation for women to build their skills in sewing and fashion.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the progress made, women in the tailoring and fashion industries still face several challenges. The #SheLeads 2024 campaign, for example, highlights the gender gap in high-growth enterprises, where women-led businesses make up only 18% of all high-growth enterprises. This campaign aims to address these disparities by promoting gender-neutral evaluation in funding and providing targeted support and resources.

Key Challenges

• Access to Capital: Female-led companies face substantial hurdles in accessing external capital.
• Gender Investment Gaps: Notable gaps in funding across various types.
• Representation: Only 20.1% of active companies in the UK were led by women in 2023.

However, these challenges also present opportunities for growth and innovation. By addressing these barriers, women can break into high-growth sectors and contribute significantly to the UK economy.

Practical Insights and Actionable Advice

For women looking to enter the world of tailoring or fashion, here are some practical insights and actionable advice:

Start with the Basics

• Take Courses: Enroll in short courses or apprenticeships to gain foundational skills in sewing and tailoring.
• Use Online Resources: Utilize sewing blogs and online tutorials to learn various techniques and stay updated with industry trends.

Build Your Skills

• Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to mastering any craft. Start with simple projects and gradually move to more complex ones.
• Join Communities: Engage with sewing communities, either online or in-person, to learn from others and gain support.

Network and Seek Mentorship

• Attend Workshops: Participate in workshops and events to network with professionals in the industry.
• Find a Mentor: Seek out experienced tailors or fashion designers who can guide you through your journey.

Celebrating Success Stories

Women like Kathryn Sargent and the founders highlighted in the #SheLeads campaign are inspirations to many. Their stories serve as a reminder that with hard work, determination, and the right support, women can achieve great success in traditionally male-dominated fields.

Kathryn Sargent’s Advice

“I didn’t think of myself as a woman, I thought of myself as a tailor. My ambition was not to be behind the scenes, but to be in front. I didn’t want to change the world or anything, but I really wanted to do this,” Sargent shares, emphasizing the importance of focusing on one’s passion and skills rather than gender.

The journey of women in tailoring and fashion in the UK is a story of resilience, innovation, and determination. From pioneers like Kathryn Sargent to the numerous educational initiatives and online communities, there are ample opportunities for women to enter and excel in these fields. As the industry continues to evolve, it is clear that women will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of bespoke tailoring and fashion.

Table: Key Initiatives and Resources

By leveraging these resources and learning from the stories of women who have paved the way, aspiring tailors and fashion designers can embark on their own successful journeys in the industry.