Couture Atelier
Welcome to the atelier of Marga van der Vet — a place where a love for history, fabrics and traditional craftsmanship comes together. Here, every garment is created entirely by hand, with patience, care and great attention to detail. From the very first sketches and fabric choices to the final stitches and finishing touches, each piece is made personally by me in my own workspace.
I have always believed that historical clothing deserves time and dedication. Every costume tells a story, and I enjoy bringing that story to life through authentic materials, carefully chosen patterns and traditional sewing techniques.
Craftsmanship & Technique
My work is inspired by historical construction methods and couture techniques that have been valued for generations. Over the years, experience and continuous study have taught me how important the smallest details can be. Seams, linings, closures and hand-finished details are therefore approached with the same level of care as the garment itself.
For me, craftsmanship is not only about creating something beautiful, but also about creating something durable, wearable and true to its historical character.
Philosophy
This atelier values patience over haste, quality over quantity, and timeless craftsmanship over passing trends. I enjoy the slower process of creating garments by hand, because it allows every piece to develop its own character and atmosphere.
My wish is that each garment not only reflects the beauty of historical fashion, but also carries a sense of warmth, history and authenticity into the present day.
Behind the Scenes - in my Atelier
On these photos you can see one of my greatest loves: my Bernina 735 sewing machine, including the embroidery module that can be attached to it. Nearby are two boxes filled with sewing feet, and a large handmade case where I keep my embroidery hoops safely stored.
You will also spot shelves full of books, fabrics, sewing supplies, ribbons, and all the little things that naturally gather in a creative atelier over the years. There is even a heavy leather sewing machine for stronger materials and special projects.
And finally: the cardboard boxes. Perhaps they do not look very glamorous from the outside, but inside they hold real treasures — sewing patterns collected over many years, waiting patiently for new ideas and future creations.
About the Mannequins:
So eventually I welcomed two new residents into my atelier: a male and a female mannequin, lovingly named Adam and Eve. I deliberately chose clearly masculine and feminine figures, because medieval, Victorian and Renaissance clothing was often designed with very distinct silhouettes and styles for men and women.
Adam and Eve are not very flexible — dressing them can sometimes feel like wrestling with two slightly stubborn time travellers — but together we manage. I dress them, photograph them in my little atelier and annex photo studio, and afterwards I add fitting backgrounds to bring the costumes to life.
In this way they have become true time travellers: sustainable, patient, and always available. No expensive flights, no large productions, no stylists, agencies, or model castings. Just craftsmanship, imagination, a small studio, and clothing shown with care to the customer.
There is also a younger member of the atelier family: a little girl’s head and bust mannequin. Perfect for displaying small hats, bonnets, and other children’s accessories. A real sweetheart.
Perhaps one day she will be joined by a full child mannequin, especially if I start creating more children’s clothing in the future. Until then, she proudly helps bring the smaller creations to life in front of the camera.
So, with heartfelt thanks to Adam and Eve, history continues to travel through my atelier.
Tailor Made - Made to Measure
Would you like a made to order a couture jacket, coat or skirt in a specific fabric, size, or colour?
Please feel free to get in touch via the Made to Order page.
