The Joy of Choosing Fabrics for your Bespoke Piece

I spend a lot of time choosing the right fabric for all my bespoke pieces. One of my favourite fabrics is the Italian single wool crepe which I source from a supplier in London who have the Queen’s Royal Warrant. It has such a luxurious feel and drapes beautifully. It’s wonderful to see how it flatters those areas of our body we may not love the most.

For my French Jackets I source all fabric from a British company, Linton Tweed. They have been supplying fashion houses around the world for over 100 years, so I think it is safe to say they know what they are doing.

Any piece created with these fabrics will truly last for many years, something I feel passionate about. Quality fabric will always outweigh cheaper versions on so many levels. As each piece is handmade there is no fabric waste, we are very conscious of fast fashion and its effect on the planet. Choosing an investment piece will not only make you look good but feel good too.

Once I have helped a client choose a few fabrics they like I can’t wait for the samples to arrive. Once they do I check the samples are of ample weight for the jacket or bespoke commission. I set the samples alongside linings to see what looks good together. Sometimes I like to choose a lining which isn’t an obvious choice. Most high street stores stick to cream or black linings which leaves me completely without enthusiasm. As I have 50 lining colours and all sourced from beautiful Cornwall I feel it would be a shame not to take advantage of this.

If my client would like a full consultation then these samples may need to be put against shoes, handbags or any other item the client intends to wear. This is such a rewarding process visualising how an outfit will come together, particularly if it is for a special event.

I lay samples out for several days, switching them around in different lights to make sure I am happy with how they look together. Once I am happy then I will offer my suggestions to my client. All samples can be discussed over Zoom or sent in the mail. Even before the pandemic we have been remote working and this is easily achievable.

If you have always had an idea of a French Jacket or indeed another piece where you can choose your own colourway then I can help you achieve something you will love. Plus, you won’t ever see anyone else wearing it as it will be truly unique to you.