A new image emerges

Press, 7 August 1985, Page 32

A new image emerges

Up to the minute, stylish garments are the creations of Cathy Baker’s students. That funny old homemade image has no place at the Christchurch College of Dressmaking, Tailoring and Design, or anywhere else. “Dressmaking is no longer the hum-drum everyday job where you whizz up a skirt or pants for the children,” says Mrs Baker, one of the tutors, and a founder of the college. Because of the high-qual-ity fabrics available, better knits and silks, and attention to tailoring, dressmakers are creating highfashion garments, she says. “If you learn to sew well you can also be your own designer. If you know how to use the correct interfacings, the patterns that suit you, you won’t be making a garment that looks homemade.”

Mrs Baker says students have made garments that have continually prompted the questions, “where did you get that?” For too long, says Mrs

Baker, sewing has been left in the doldrums. Only now are people beginning to realise its potential.

Even students at the college have been amazed by what they could produce, “they are finding ability and talent they never thought they had. They are learning to use their imagination and get the professional finish, the well-tailored design.”

Mrs Baker points out that people who can sew get the design they want, the colour, the size, the fabric of their choice and a garment that fits well. Also, it suits them and they have avoided the frustration of trekking from shop to shop and never finding what they want.

“If you learn to sew well you become your own designer and can put together a look you want. You have a tremendous amount of money, so much that if you want to buy a garment for a special occasion you can afford to. Also, by making and designing your own clothes you have the money to get the belts, bags, shoes,

scarves — the accessories that will make your outfit.” Students are taught to have fun by being creative, “once they learn it opens up all sorts of new horizons,” says Mrs Baker.

■ Tutors discus patterns, materials with students to get the best combinations for the individual. Attention is paid to collars, cuffs, how to alter patterns — nothing is left out. The results are fashionable outfits, beautifully made and affordable. The college teaches all aspects of dressmaking, including smocking, and caters for the beginner to those who need help on tailoring or who want to learn designing and pattern cutting. Special holiday classes are available.

In September, Christchurch’s Fashion ’B5 XPO will show just how creative dressmakers can be. Clothes from the college will be on parade.

The college is at the Peterborough Arts Centre, Mrs Baker can be contacted on 64-404.