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Customisation and Individuality

I interviewed some people about how they customise their lives. This is my reflection on my interview with Phoenix, a student and amateur sewist who tailors and personalises his clothing.

27 December 2024

Phoenix (he/him) is a talented sewer and tailor who sees clothing customisation as both a functional improvement and a means of self-expression. His projects range from the practical—adding or expanding pockets, tailoring jacket fits, sashiko stitching rips, and altering sleeve or pant lengths—to the artistic. Phoenix replaces plain buttons with handmade ceramic ones, embroiders stars onto added pockets, dyes fabrics in vibrant colours, and crops shirts to give them a fresh edge. Each modification serves a dual purpose: to make his wardrobe work better for him and to reflect his personality and style.

Phoenix views the hunt for clothing as a balancing act between style, fit, and price. For most consumers, he says, it’s impossible to find all three. Customisation, however, offers a way to tip the scales—allowing him to achieve quality fits and styles without breaking the bank. More importantly, however, it lets him craft a wardrobe that represents his identity and mood. “Customisation lets people seeme how I want to be seen,” he explains, emphasising the personal connection it brings to his clothes. “It shows a unique identity... your personality doesn’t have to be picked out.” Through his customised clothing,he’s able to solidify his sense of self and individuality.

“IF WHAT I WEAR REPRESENTS WHO I AM,
THEN WHY WOULDN’T I WANT TO
CUSTOMISE THAT TO REFLECT MYSELF?”

Sustainability is also another cornerstone of Phoenix’s values. He praises customisation as a champion of slow fashion, extending the lifespan of garments by reworking them in creative ways. “Experiment with clothes you were going to throw away or donate,” he advises, pointing out that many donated items end up in landfills. By customising and repurposing old clothes, Phoenix says, “it feels like a whole new world’s been unlocked.”

For those interested in starting their own customisation journey, Phoenix recommends turning to older generations for guidance. “Parents or grandparents often have sewing skills that younger people didn’t grow up learning,” he notes. He also suggests visiting charity shops for affordable, sustainable materials and supplies.

This article is a part of a magazine I made! You can see the full issue here!