 When the World Feels Uncertain, the Old Pedal Still Turns
In my studio stand several elderly giants: cast-iron sewing machines from another era, including a sturdy leather-sewing model operated entirely by hand or foot. No plug, no humming motor — just pure mechanical precision.  I am often asked how I manage to gather such beautiful images for my blogs, reviews, and fashion-related articles. For many bloggers—especially in fashion—it can be quite a challenge to find high-quality, copyright-free photos. I am pleased to share my personal workflow, along with the resources I rely on with confidence.
 Meet Adam & Eve—yes, those Adam and Eve, but with way less drama and way more style. (And no, they didn’t eat the apple—they’re just here to model my handmade costumes and vintage finds.)
Let’s be real: that photo is questionable, but so is life. These mannequins are my ride-or-die studio buddies. They’re patient (mostly), stubborn (always), and occasionally take a nosedive (gravity’s a harsh critic). But hey, a headless bust just doesn’t cut it—these two make outfits pop like a runway show in a thrift store. And talk about eco-chic! Adam and Eve are globetrotters without the carbon footprint. One day they’re posing in Paris, the next they’re time-traveling to the ‘70s—all from the comfort of my atelier. No jet lag, just pure versatility. Oh, and before you ask: no, I’m not actually tiny. They’re just standing on a wheely pedestal because even mannequins deserve a little elevation. (Pun intended.)  We used to think of richness as abundance — of possessions, wardrobes, and luxury items. But recently, a gentler, wiser understanding has begun to take hold.
For many seamstresses, richness now means having time: time to sew in peace, to create with care, and to take joy in simple, tactile beauty. A tidy sewing space, a beloved sewing machine, and a few cherished fabrics — these are treasures beyond measure. Possessions may fill our closets, but creativity fills our hearts. Real luxury lies not in overabundance, but in the slow rhythm of stitching, the satisfaction of finishing a seam, or the quiet pride of mending something instead of discarding it.  Just one more exception...
I promised not to publish any more “all about quilts” posts on Sewing Chanel-Style—a website dedicated to Haute Couture and Chanel-inspired elegance. But this time, last time, I’m making an exception because this topic is truly fascinating for anyone passionate about interior style: super modern, deeply personal, and incredibly cozy. Take a peek—it’s worth your time! |
Since 2018
All about creating your own Chanel-Style jacket, Chanel-lovers information, Historic Costumes, Couture & Sewing book reviews and tutorials.
By: Marga van der Vet,
50+ model
Content creator
Sewing Chanel-Style is all about sharing information, sewing pattern-reviews, book-reviews and lots of sewing guides for sewing-beginners and advanced seamstress.
|
