Sew Modest Clothes That Make You Feel
Beautiful and Confident
An evening gown made by me.
Sewing your own clothes is the key to letting your style, personality and beauty shine through your clothing.
There are so many fashion brands out there, but their clothes will rarely be exactly what you are looking for.
There will always be one issue or another, right?
If it’s not the wrong colour, then the style is off. If the style is ok, then the fit isn’t quite right. And if you’re petite, plus-size, tall, or anything out of the so-called “standard” range, then good luck to you!
And if, on top of all that, you want to dress modestly then… well… you really don’t have many affordable options.
For years and years, you’re stuck in a loop of making compromises about your style and your personality.
The dream of wearing what you love is still there, but you think it’s unattainable.
But that’s not true. You can want it and have it.
Top and skirt made from ankara fabric.
That dream dress, the one that makes you swoon and your eyes sparkle – you can create it!
You have the right to feel beautiful and confident in the clothes you wear.
You have the right to feel powerful in the clothes you wear.
Once I came to this recognition, I decided to start my sewing and pattern drafting journey. This was in March 2017.
SCHWANA is now the platform I use to document this journey and show you, step by step, how I make my own clothes.
As I learn a new skill, I show it to you and hopefully you can feel encouraged and inspired by my own experiences.
I will also share my knowledge of pattern drafting and how to make your own patterns! I have never, ever used a commercial pattern!
Because let’s face it, sewing can be hard. When I first started sewing, I struggled. A lot.
I couldn’t seem to figure out the “simple” things.
Why aren’t the bust darts lying flat?
Why are my princess seams pointy?
Why is the armhole so huge?
Why does my basic bodice still look rubbish?
Sound familiar? It can be overwhelming. And you start to doubt why you even decided to start sewing. Yet, you have this clear vision of the clothes you want to wear and you desperately want to make them a reality.
I eventually got through these issues and more, but it took years. And I’m improving all the time!
And that’s why I created SCHWANA. To help shorten the time it takes for women like you to create beautiful, modest clothes that make you feel confident and powerful; by sharing what I currently know and all the things I am yet to discover about sewing and pattern drafting.
We get to go on this sewing journey together, with all its highs and lows.
There will be hours, maybe even days of frustration and annoyance. But there will also certainly be times of immense joy, validation and triumph.
Sewing your own clothes is empowering.
No more compromising your style. No more wishing that fashion brands would cater to you.
You are in control now. And you are free to make and wear what gives you joy.
My colourful take on a bubu gown.
The best way for me to help you is for you to tell me about your own sewing journey so far (or why you would like to start one). Send me an email: lily@schwana.co. 😉
Speak soon!
Lily
P.S. If you are ready to start receiving regular sewing and pattern drafting advice, as well as modest dressing inspiration, make sure to subscribe to the free SCHWANA Sewing Club email list at the bottom of this page.