Tailor the Rebellion: Why I Started Dandy & Rebel

Ooh, hello, and welcome to the chaos!

If you are here, I’m Amber. I run Dandy & Rebel. I make costumes, have a thing for dramatic coats, and work at the crossroads between historical sewing and queer expression.

I started D&R because I got sick of clothes that didn’t fit - not just physically, but emotionally, spiritually, genderly (is that a word? It is now). I spent years trying to squeeze myself into garments that weren’t made for people like me. So I thought, sod it - I’ll make my own. And if it helps anyone else feel a bit more themselves along the way, then job’s a good ’un.

Why “Tailor the Rebellion”?

It is more than a tagline. It’s a call for anyone who has felt out of place in a fitting room, for people who have changed their clothes to feel comfortable, and for those whose style is somewhere between historical fashion and modern rebellion.

We challenge the idea that you have to look or be a certain way to belong. We tailor clothes, but also make space for identity and enjoyment in the process.

Clothes That Give a Damn

D&R is built on the idea that fit is about more than measurements. If you are trans, non-binary, genderfluid, fat, neurodivergent, or any combination, you deserve clothes that feel like they’re yours.

That is why I will run drop-in sessions for trans and non-binary people to get help with fit and alterations. Sometimes, a small adjustment and some kindness make a difference.

A Bit of History, A Lot of Drama

My work is influenced by 18th-century fashion. I have a soft spot for frock coats and also for 50’s couture. But I’m not stuck in the past. Think Vivienne Westwood meets The Scarlet Pimpernel, with some camp and a focus on comfort. I like to mix tailoring with drama, so what you’ll see here is a blend of historical shapes and modern queer style.

Velvet and wool are constants. No questions asked please!

So What Now?

The blog will cover behind-the-seams stuff (groan!), costume ideas, thoughts on queer fashion, reflections on clothes and identity, and just general updates about Dandy & Rebel.

If you’ve ever wanted your reflection to feel more like you, you’re in the right place. I don’t have all the answers, but I do know my way around a sewing machine.

Thank you for being here. I look forward to sharing what’s next.

Love,

Amber (they/them)

Costume maker, fit nerd, and founder of Dandy & Rebel