It definitely sounds more upscale to call a dress “handmade” rather than “homemade”. However, I wanted to be very clear about the distinction. Because when you think about it, all clothes are handmade. We probably don’t acknowledge that fact enough. Whether you pay pennies on the dollar for an outfit from fast fashion brands, or you’re willing to spend a grip on responsibly made brands, every single item of clothing has been handmade by someone. Hems sewn, zippers placed, pockets made. They’ve all passed through someone’s fingertips.

I noticed handmade becoming a popular term within the ethical fashion community, and it always sort of bothered me. As if because these items were touched by people who happen to be making a fair wage, they qualified as handmade — triggering images of beautiful and delicate and special garments. More so than the clothes made by women overseas, in poor conditions who are viewed as nothing more than factory workers. So this is just my blunt way of saying that I try to refer to the clothing I sew myself as homemade. It doesn’t sound as pretty, but it’s meaningful to me.

outfit notes

I made a dress just like this for one of my dear friends, and it looked so good on her, I had to make one for myself too! It’s sewn from dead stock fabric that I found in downtown LA and it’s been a staple the past couple spring/summer seasons. If you’re a seamstress and would like to whip up something similar, I have a basic tutorial linked below. Here I’ve styled it with and without the belt, but I much prefer the straight lines over the curvy. That’s just personal preference. Because I know the fashion rules on how to make an outfit flattering, but most of the time I choose to ignore them and go for comfort. Again, I don’t do fussy things, and with the belt I’m constantly touching and adjusting. So it’s just easier without. Plus the belt highlights my low, motherly boobs and I just don’t need extra boobage in my life.

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Hope your weekend is off to a nice start.

loves,
jaana