Sewing as Self-Expression: Creating Clothes That Feel Like You
One of the greatest joys of learning to sew is the freedom it gives you. Freedom to play, to create, and most importantly — to be yourself. When we’re no longer limited to what the high street says is “in fashion” or “flattering,” we get to explore what we actually like wearing and how we want to feel in our clothes.
But here’s the honest truth: that freedom can also be a bit… overwhelming at first.
My Own Sewing Style Crisis
It took me ages to realise that I needed to make clothes I’d actually want to wear — not just ones I liked the idea of. I’m a sucker for a big, bold print when I’m fabric shopping (give me ALL the loud florals and wild geometrics!)… but if you’ve met me in person, you’ll probably know that I’m usually in plain colours, subtle prints, or plain old black.
Cue: a whole wardrobe of me-made clothes that didn’t really look or feel like me. They were fun to make, but they didn’t quite fit into my everyday life. I’d open my wardrobe and feel like I was playing dress-up rather than getting dressed.
It was a lesson I had to learn the hard way: just because a fabric or pattern is pretty, doesn’t mean it’s you.
Finding Your Style Through Sewing
The brilliant thing is, sewing helps you figure that out over time. Every project teaches you something — about fit, fabric, pattern choices, and (most importantly) your personal style.
You get to experiment, to make mistakes, to try things on and think, hmm… not quite me, and then try again.
It’s a journey, and there will definitely be a few bumps along the way. But that’s part of the fun. Each project brings you one step closer to making clothes that feel right — the ones you reach for again and again because they make you feel confident, comfortable, and like yourself.
You, But Even More You
The best me-made wardrobes don’t look like anyone else’s. They’re shaped around your lifestyle, your values, your quirks. Whether that means sewing a whole collection of comfy dungarees, finally finding trousers that actually fit, or experimenting with colour until something clicks — it’s about creating something that suits you, not anyone else.
So if you’re early on in your sewing journey, or feeling frustrated that things don’t quite feel right yet — keep going. It’s all part of the process. Trust me, your style will emerge stitch by stitch.
Want a bit of help finding your style and building confidence with your sewing?
Check out my friendly, beginner-focused sewing courses — online and in person — or join my mailing list to get sewing tips, stories, and inspiration straight to your inbox.
👉 Browse Courses
👉 Join the Mailing List
Let’s make clothes that feel like you!