The seamstress here works with another but my lady was a senior machienist for MARKS AND SPENCER.until the company started using suppliers from out East.These ladies bought the factory machines and started doing bridal/prom/evening and boy they are superb.
My lady could not make a pattern..thats not her skill but even having trousers shortened she is so good.she is a star.
Know what you mean about jewellry. I put one on today then took it off..was going to the city..lunch and an appointment and earrings were all I needed.
Texture really matters..linen...and fine woollens.layered. Daughter brought paminas from CHINA..But cheaper are lovely too.

I bought a beret today..it has aplacae flowers so it will either be admired or ignored !! Whatever my head will be warm.

I too have remade clothes from fabric..so we have that in common.
Mountain ash