Hello and welcome to my world.
I’m Janice; the creator behind Janice Collier Designs.
Thank you very much for taking the time to find out more about me and what I do…
My husband and I moved to North Carolina from Brighton (UK) in 2016, after deciding to have another great adventure.
With more than three decades of experience, I have developed my sewing skills to new levels, whilst taking inspiration from the glorious world of vintage fashions and my own daughters’ creative personalities.
My sewing story started out back in the 80’s, when I couldn’t find anything I really liked in UK stores for my fun-loving elder daughter, so I started out by sewing practical play clothes in bold printed fabrics. Encouraged by the feedback I received, I went on to make and sell at craft fairs, in boutique shops in Yorkshire and London, as well as via mail order.
Throughout the 90’s, whilst living in South West Germany, my passion for making comfortable and classically stylish children’s clothes was further inspired with the arrival of my younger daughter (modelling on the right).
As I’d managed to build a significant local customer base with my well-liked assortment of clothing, I opened a small boutique shop called “Little People” and put on a couple of really fun fashion shows for local communities.
I relish the whole creative process – from sourcing fabrics to buttons and threads, to drafting the patterns, and finally making and selling the garments – it is just so rewarding to see people wear and enjoy something I’ve put so much work into.
– Janice Collier, Owner/Designer
The opportunity to create truly special custom-made occasional wear came around in the noughties, when my niece asked me to make a classical wedding dress (which involved tea staining satin fabric!) and a dear friend wished for a traditional christening gown for her newborn daughter (on the left).
Over the years, I have upskilled and learnt pattern drafting, garment construction and professional tailoring, and at the end made my youngest the vintage inspired dresses she had always wanted.
Today, I provide limited edition ranges of uniquely designed every day and occasional wear clothing for children. By combining distinctive organic fabrics and a variety of crafting techniques, I create individually sewn and hand finished vintage inspired designs, meaning that you will have a one-of-a-kind outfit for your special small person.
In addition, I also offer bespoke design services, vintage inspired girls dress patterns and deliver a number of sewing workshops at venues throughout Raleigh, NC.
I hope you enjoy browsing my clothing ranges for babies & toddlers, boys and girls and should you wish to discuss a custom made project – do just get in touch with me.