Handmade & Made-to-Order - What's the difference?

Handmade & Made-to-Order

When shopping for sustainable fashion, you often see terms like handmade and made-to-order. But what do they really mean, and why do they matter?

Made-to-Order: Clothing with a Personal Touch

Unlike mass-produced garments, made-to-order means a piece is only created when an order is placed. This has several benefits:

• No overproduction Since each item is crafted upon request, it prevents excess stock and reduces waste.

• Better fit Customers can request adjustments to ensure the garment flatters their body shape perfectly.

• Unique designs Custom orders allow for greater personalization, making every item feel special.

Since made-to-order fashion isn’t mass-produced, it is rarer and more special. It brings back the joy of waiting for something made just for you, rather than grabbing something off a shelf that a thousand others also own.

Handmade: The Art of Craftsmanship

Handmade or handcrafted fashion refers to clothing made by skilled artisans rather than machines. Every stitch, seam, and fabric choice is carefully considered, resulting in:

• Higher quality Hand-sewn garments often have superior durability and craftsmanship compared to factory-made clothing.

• Attention to detail Small imperfections in handmade pieces add to their charm and individuality.

• Sustainable production Handmade fashion consumes less energy and produces fewer emissions compared to large-scale manufacturing.

Handmade and made-to-order fashion might be less common, but they represent the future of ethical and sustainable clothing. They bring back the artistry of fashion, allowing wearers to appreciate the time, skill, and effort that go into each piece.