Discovering identity, body confidence, and surfacing inner love through self-made garments
By Kamali Obiagu
Diving into the craft of sewing has played a significant role in shaping the person I am today. I started sewing in December 2018, and since then, I haven't taken a break. Sewing has become therapeutic for me, and I enjoy creating garments. I wouldn't have developed my current style, confidence, and skill set without this craft. We need to go back to my childhood to gain insight into my fashion sense. Before I started sewing, I didn't believe I had a fashion sense. As a child, most of my clothes were hand-me-downs, imitations of others, or whatever my mother could afford. My mom had a simple yet practical approach to clothing. She preferred that I wear primarily solid colours to match most of my wardrobe. She also believed that it was crucial always to look presentable, which, as a child, I found a bit annoying. I yearned to wear the trendy, colourful clothes that my peers wore. Looking back, I realise that my mom was trying to save me from cringing at my old photos years later and asking myself, "What the heck was I thinking?!" My mother meant best, and I did what she recommended while suppressing the urge to find answers to questions such as "What is my style? Or, better yet, "Who am I?"
BODY INSECURITIES
I am a confident person, but I have had to work at it. Before I started sewing, I was very insecure about my body. I kept comparing myself to a younger version of me, obsessing over clothes that no longer fit and feeling ashamed of my appearance. But then I started sewing and taking my own measurements. I began to create apparel that fit me perfectly. It started with leggings, t-shirts, then dresses and I was hooked! The sheer variety of patterns and fabrics was overwhelming at first, but it was also thrilling. I realised that I had been limiting myself regarding what I thought I could wear. Sewing has given me a newfound sense of freedom and confidence. Learning how to sew resulted in learning about my style and who I am. Until then, I was a graphic tee and jeggings gal. Although, I still love this style!
SEWING HELPS ME EXPRESS MYSELF
Sewing gave me the ability to explore many aesthetics. My style has so much range. I love taking a trend and putting some Kamali on it! One would see me dressed as the hot mess express mom, the afro-goth woman, a melanated goddess, the tomboy, the adorable hippie, the sexy mama, and the power move fit. I admire maxi
