A Formula 1 driver needs a team behind him to win races. A fashionista also needs a team a highly skilled professionals to look tailored, extend clothing life and protect vintage possessions. This team is made up of a cobbler and a seamstress.

The Cobbler

This is not your local “shoe guy”. This is a leather craftsman -usually from Europe -who understands how shoes are constructed and can repair damage or make adjustments for the perfect fit.

What he can do for your shoe wardrobe:

• Resole or re-heel – especially important for vintage shoes
• Stretch for comfort and fit
• Add non-slip bottoms for safety
• Make skinny calf boots into wide calf boots
• Re-colour or dye the leather to hide ware

Extras:

Repair leather handbags, jackets or belts. Recondition leather that is dry.

The Seamstress

Unless you know how to sew, you need this lady in your life. A seamstress is highly skilled and able to tailor off the rack clothes for a perfect fit.

What she can do for your wardrobe:

• Adjust the length of sleeves or pants
• Take in or let out garments
• Mend rips or stitching that has come undone
• Restyle old garments, example removing sleeves on a jacket to create a vest.

Extras:

If she can knit, she may be able to mend sweaters or other knitwear.

Coming up soon hand washing vs. dry cleaning. All you need to know.