Abbie Leach showcased her bespoke collection at The Columbia Hotel in London, featuring hand-crafted garments. Trained on Savile Row, she faced challenges as a female in tailoring but regained confidence through collaboration. Her brand highlights both craftsmanship and the effort towards inclusivity within the industry.
Abbie Leach, a Savile Row-trained tailor, debuted her bespoke label Abbie Leach Atelier at The Columbia Hotel in London with a salon-style show last Thursday. The collection featured neutral-hued pantsuits, elegant tuxedos, and skirt sets that showcased craftsmanship as models walked through a Victorian banquet hall. Leach remarked that every piece is handcrafted to ensure durability, emphasising, “Everything’s been done by hand. I wish you could see the insides of the garments, because the time, the stitches and the work that has gone into them means they’re made to last.” Leach’s journey in tailoring has not been without challenges. After training in a male-dominated field and feeling disrespected, she took a year-long hiatus from sewing until she found her confidence again through collaboration with Harris Reed. She noted, “It was an unwelcoming environment. But there’s now amazing groups like Women in Tailoring, which focuses on female tailors getting apprenticeships, work and really hustling.” Despite acknowledging the struggles, she is proud of the meticulous work behind each garment, with four fittings before they can be purchased straight off the runway.
The article highlights Abbie Leach’s inaugural collection presentation for her bespoke fashion brand at The Columbia Hotel in London. Leach’s background includes significant training in Savile Row, a UK fashion staple known for its tailoring excellence. She faced challenges as a female tailor in an industry dominated by men, which has prompted a movement towards inclusivity, notably through resourceful organisations like Women in Tailoring.
Abbie Leach Atelier’s first collection demonstrates a blend of traditional skills and contemporary inclusivity. Leach’s commitment to craftsmanship is reflected in the handmade quality of her garments. Despite facing challenges in the male-centric tailoring world, she is optimistic about the evolution of the industry and the increasing support for female tailors.
Original Source: wwd.com