Great Women in Sewing: A List of Incredible Seamstresses

When you think of the word “seamstress,” what image springs to mind?

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When you think of the phrase “famous seamstress,” whose image pops into your head?

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Would you be surprised to learn that there are far more famous seamstresses than you may realize?  And that a lot of them are not only household names, but have changed the world for the better throughout history?

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About a year ago, just for kicks, I did a search to see how many famous seamstresses I could discover, and it was delightfully productive.  I love the word seamstress, and I love the legacy that these women have left behind with their needles.  They’ve influenced civil rights, women’s rights, worker’s rights.  They’ve impacted religious freedoms, fashion trends and workplace laws.  They’ve labored for soldiers overseas, for students in classrooms around the world, and as artists making statements about their time.

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I want to share these women with you.  I want to research and treasure their stories, and be inspired by their vision, their influence, their achievements and their passion.  Starting tomorrow, semi-weekly posts here on the blog will point you toward women who have made a difference with their needle.  I hope you’ll follow along–and share in the comments names you’d like to see featured so I’m sure not to miss anyone!

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  • Maureen
    March 14, 2016 at 3:37 pm

    This is a great topic. I am a big fan of Coco Chanel. I love, love, love the style she developed. It lives on long after her. Her life story is inspiring too.

    • Deborah
      March 15, 2016 at 1:28 pm

      I agree! She is absolutely on the list!!

  • Kathie
    March 14, 2016 at 5:41 pm

    Wonderful idea. Thanks for sharing your ongoing research with us.

    • Deborah
      March 15, 2016 at 1:29 pm

      I am amazed at how long the list is–so many incredible individuals, and even groups, who have impacted our daily lives in ways I never realized. I’m only scratching the surface!

  • Ruth
    March 14, 2016 at 6:47 pm

    I am looking forward to this series. Thanks for sharing, Deborah. 🙂

    • Deborah
      March 15, 2016 at 1:29 pm

      I am so fascinated by what I’m learning! So honored to share it all with you.

  • Emma Robertson
    March 16, 2016 at 10:55 am

    What a great idea. I’m really looking forward to reading what you find out! :0)

  • Kelly Robinson
    March 19, 2016 at 10:53 am

    Laura Ingalls Wilder took in sewing for awhile, though she didn’t particularly enjoy it. A lot is written on her life already, but she is worth a mention.

    Kelly

    • Deborah
      March 21, 2016 at 3:12 pm

      I don’t think I knew that! Will have to do a little digging and add her to the list! Thanks, Kelly! 🙂

  • Roxanne
    September 20, 2016 at 11:26 am

    I am looking for any famous or well known seamstress in the Middle Ages maybe in the year 1224. I’m assuming maybe in France or England.
    Thank You
    R!oxanne