Meet Carol Vick of Altadena

Today we’d like to introduce you to Carol Vick.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I arrived in Los Angeles just after completing my MFA in Costume Design at UNC-Chapel Hill and assumed I would immediately get a job in the entertainment industry doing costume work.

But the movie/television industry was on strike at that time and I found myself needing a j-o-b! I went to a family owned fabric store (that is no longer in business) seeking sales work. The manager (who remains a great friend to this day) thought I would be better suited for teaching sewing classes. I began teaching full time and my first custom sewing clients evolved from those students. Those who appreciated the quality and unique fit of a hand sewn garment realized it was easier to pay me to make things than to do it for themselves and, thus, my custom business was born. Alterations became a natural extension of that. Fitting a garment to flatter my client’s figure is one of my superpowers! My patternmaking background gives me an understanding of garments that enables me to do alterations that many others don’t know how to do.

As referrals grew, I soon began working on vintage garments and family heirlooms, such as third and fourth generation wedding gowns. With my historical perspective, I understand the difference in making clothing wearable for a modern woman or restoring the garment to maintain its historical perspective.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Although I have had some ups and downs like anyone does, in retrospect, the road was smoother than not because I really believe I was meant to help people feel more beautiful.

I have had moments when I was just kind of tired and burned out. Then some new piece of equipment came along that simplified my work process and I was inspired again.

I have had times of too much work and not quite enough work. Fortunately, at the times of overwhelm, someone who can sew up to my standards has been available to work with me for a while. Although there have been a few lulls, they have never lasted very long. Some unexpected project comes along. Or an existing client calls in need of something for a special event.

I have learned to be open to all possibilities. I expect good things to come my way and they do. Last year, for example, I altered a dress that appeared on TV at the Oscars then assisted an astronaut candidate in putting together her NASA interview wardrobe.

So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Carol Vick story. Tell us more about the business.
I bring the magic to getting dressed! The moment when a client looks in the mirror and sees her outfit come to life as she imagined, it makes the sometime long hours worthwhile.

At different times I seem to pull in clients in need of different aspects of my business. I am consistently called on to do alterations from the most basic to very complex bridal remodels.

Whether my original designs or collaborations with a client, custom made garments are always fun. Some people are definite in what they want and able to communicate it clearly. Some not so much, so a period of sketching and discussion precedes getting started. I feel one of my gifts is to get to the essence of what my client wants and bring it to life.

Not everyone loves to shop or understands what silhouettes most flatter their body shape. I offer wardrobe styling services such as closet clearing and organization, planning and shopping for a special occasion or general wardrobe fill in.

I am committed to providing a personalized service to each client. My goal is to have each client feel they are presenting their best version of themselves to the world.

Even though I am located just above Pasadena in Altadena, I draw clients who think I am worth the drive from all over greater Los Angeles. I have even had a bridal client travel up from San Diego because she had faith I would be the best person to remodel her gown.

Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
To a large extent, I believe we create our own luck, through practice and education, either formal or figuring things out project by project. Yes, I have had the “luck” to connect with people who refer me to other opportunities. I feel the more we say yes, the more good the Universe brings us.

Pricing:

• Hourly alterations/repairs…$25 for basics to $38 for beading.
• Wardrobe styling services…$60 per hour. Travel charges might also apply

Contact Info:

• Address: By appointment only
  Altadena, CA 91001
• Website: www.carolvick.com
• Phone: 626-798-1992
• Email: [email protected]
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Carol-Vick-Atelier-1814099645505801/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/wardrobe-design-by-carol-vick-pasadena-2