Conversations with Audrey Cook

Today we’d like to introduce you to Audrey Cook.

Hi Audrey, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I began Sewing when I was very young. My grandmother taught me how to hand sew simply using a needle and thread. Throughout my childhood, I eventually upgraded to a sewing machine which I used to make myself clothing and accessories to wear to school, and before I knew it I was designing fashions for myself— skirts, dresses, and adding things like buckles and bows to altered thrift store garments. Along with this, I had an affinity for the theatre. I was all consumed by it, the glitz, glamor, and especially the show tunes! I had then cemented myself in the costume design world within school as well as many community theatre productions. Eventually I made the decision to attend fashion school with a focus of costume design and became enamored by historical garments—namely corsets. Today, I am working in my studio on a corseted wedding gown for a dear client. I have stitch by stitch built a business that I am proud of and have always wanted. Corsets have quickly become my niche and I’m excited each and every day to begin working on something new and beautiful!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My business was born amidst the pandemic so it’s safe to say it had a rocky start. Most theatre and film productions had ceased so I was out of work and didn’t have much to do with my time, but my fabric hoarding sure paid off! I made a few corsets and posted them online, and pretty soon orders began to come in, I almost couldn’t believe it.
Currently, I would say it has been hard to make the business work as one person. Although I live for the designing, constructing, and late night sewing, being my own manager, marketer, and even web designer have been more than a challenge.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in corsetry and custom couture. Corsets are my favorite thing to make especially when someone asks me for a custom request. I make ready-to-wear styles for every day fashion, all the way to hyper customized pieces for drag and burlesque. Sometimes people come to me for extra back support, some for gender affirming care, and some simply for confidence. It is amazing what a single garment can do for so many people. What I think most sets me apart from other business though, is where I source my materials. I personally refuse to support giant corporations and big box stores, not only in my business but in my private life too. You will find no Amazon, Temu, (etc.) materials anywhere near me or my clothes and that is a promise. Whenever possible, you will find me downtown purchasing my fabric and hardware from some of my favorite mom and pop shops, trying my best to drive my money back into the community. And that means so much more to me than saving a few dollars or selling out my art.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
When it comes to making art I think the best mentors are those in your community. I’m not sure I have an answer for this one, but we need community more than ever right now. Join a crochet group or a book club you’ll be surprised at how many people can and want to help!

Pricing:

• Corset Belt- $60-$120
• Waist Cincher- $200-$400
• Full Custom Corset $300- $800
• Corset Consultation- Free 🙂

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Hailsatincorsetry.com
• Instagram: @hail_satin_corsetry

Image Credits
Audrey Cook