Susan Kolar Couture

Since early childhood, Susan has had a passion for sewing and fashion. Her curiosity about how things are made and how to make them was a driving force in her development. It all began with making Barbie doll clothes, cutting out paper dolls, and playing dress-up in her mom's party dresses. She had many wonderful women in her life to inspire her and teach her to sew, knit, bead, embroider, and quilt. By the time she was in high school, she was designing and sewing her own clothes and prom dresses. At Virginia Tech, she studied clothing and textiles with an emphasis in pattern making, couture techniques, and tailoring. She pursued summer work in factories, fabric stores, and bridal shops. Upon graduating with her Bachelor of Science degree, she went to work in the New York Garment District as an assistant designer while studying at The Fashion Institute of Technology to further perfect her technical and design skills. Frustration with the mass produced, cookie-cutter approach of Fashion Avenue led Susan into independent design. She lavished her attention on friends and family wanting custom gowns for their weddings. For her own wedding, she designed and made the dresses for herself and her bridal party. Her client base grew, and over the years, she has helped hundreds of women get to the dress of their dreams. She is also a certified public school teacher with ten years of service, a life coach, and has a Master's degree in education. Susan Kolar Couture dressmaking and design is a culmination of all of her experiences, education, and mentors along the way. It also comes to no surprise being from a family of engineers and artists that she has found her business in custom couture, design, and dressmaking as a way to balance her love of science and beauty. And to satisfy her curiosity with the "how to's" in life. Susan says of her craft, "By working with my hands, I express what's in my heart. Each dress is a heartfelt process and joyful creation."

Services Offered

Susan Kolar Couture specializes in custom design, restyling, and alterations for weddings and special occasions. Whether you're looking to create a custom gown from scratch, restyle a once-worn gown, or alter a dress you already have, Susan is dedicated to making your dress wishes come true. She offers a wide range of services, including custom design, restyling, and alterations, all designed to help you get the perfect look and fit for your special day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is couture?

A: Couture means the highest quality sewing. It's like gourmet cooking! Couture quality garments meet the highest standards in design, construction, fit, fabric, details, and finishing. The results are delicious!

Q: I am thinking of a custom dress, but like the idea of re-styling a dress too, how do I decide?

A: Make an appointment with Susan to discuss your ideas and desires. In the meantime, try on dresses, collect pictures, photos of dresses you like, and the theme you are going for. Be ready to discuss budget and timeline. Susan will help you decide what's best.

Q: What if I change my mind in the middle of the process?

A: Designs do evolve and change along the way. Revisions are normal. It's pretty ok to change your mind before finalizing your design.