# *What is Katherine Vier?**Katherine Vier offers the art of custom design to women; we work with our clients to infuse their signature style into the garment using high-end fabrics and intricate details. Clients are consulted with and included in each step of the process to create the garment of their dreams.*
## *How does the custom Process work?**Katie, our designer, meets with the client for an initial consultation to discuss the client’s ideas, which will go into creating the garment. Sketches are drawn up after the initial consultation, and fabrics are hand picked and presented to clients. Once a sketch is chosen, construction begins with a made-to-measure muslin. After the initial fitting, the final piece is cut and sewn in the Katherine Vier Studio.* ## *What is Muslin?**A muslin is a cotton fitting garment used to help the client visualize the final product. The muslin fitting allows Katherine Vier to test out construction ensuring the client receives the perfect fit and look.*## *How long does the Custom Process take?**Cocktail dresses typically take 3 to 4 months, evening gowns take 4-6 months, and bridal takes 4-8 months.* ## *What is your favorite part about designing?**Seeing my client’s face light up in the mirror when they try on the final product for the first time! I find it even more complimentary when the spouse, fiancé/boyfriend tells me that it is their favorite dress their significant other has ever worn!*## *What is you personal design aesthetic?**My design style incorporates both soft and feminine yet sleek and modern details, however I prioritize my client’s ideas and incorporate them into every piece. I work to make sure my clients look effortless and comfortable in their garments. I source beautiful, high-end fabrics through contacts I made in NYC and abroad. I believe I’m able to offer my clients a unique experience and allow them to stand out with a one-of-a-kind piece.*
## *Do you ever find designing custom garments to be challenging?* *I love a good challenge! Every new garment presents the challenge of going above and beyond to give my clients everything they want and more. There will always be challenges whether it is construction-related or finding that specific fabric that sets the garment apart from others. It continually forces me to look for new inspirations, research construction and new techniques, and grow as a designer.*## *Where did you learn to design and create clothing?**I taught myself to sew by reading the sewing directions from store bought patterns (my grandmother encouraged this). I then studied design at The University of Alabama, and from there I moved to New York. In NYC, I learned invaluable techniques and trade secrets I could not have learned elsewhere. I designed for Elie Tahari for 4 years. Mr. Tahari always encouraged his designers to a part of whole design process from fabrics to garment fittings. He taught me how to focus on the intricate details that set your garment apart from others. After 6 years in New York, my husband and I decided to move back south to Birmingham – this is where Katherine Vier was created. My ultimate goal is to offer women the opportunity to be a part of the designing process of their dress. Clothing should be personal, and what is cooler than a client being able to say they helped create it!* ## *What is Katherine Vier’s design philosophy?* *To create beautiful dresses that reflects the beautiful women who wear them.*## *What sets you apart from other dressmakers?**Typically with a dress maker, clients have to present their fabric and pattern for what they want. Katherine Vier works with clients to design and pick fabrics that suit their needs. I will create a pattern based on individual measurement and I will order all fabrics and notions you need for your garment. We take the guess work out of the process for our clients.* ## *How can clients get in touch with you?**Call, text, email or you can check out my website for more information.*
*Katherinevier@gmail.com*
*www.katherinevier.com*
*504-638-2865*
