It’s sew good
Raph talks his ideas through with judges Esme Young and Patrick Grant
WHO would have thought watching people sew could be so gripping?
But this is not just about darning socks or stitching buttons, it’s impressive handmade fashion in action.
Host Joe Lycett welcomes a fresh batch of 12 sewers to a brand new location on the banks of London’s River Thames, all trying to impress Savile Row’s suited and booted Patrick Grant, and formidable costume designer Esme Young.
They have formed a Covid-safe bubble and to be honest, they all seem giddy to be allowed out and to be in close contact to other people.
But within minutes there is panic over patterns, anguish over arm holes (yes, really), and drama over fitting garments to actual, real, live humans.
It’s wardrobe staples week, and the first challenge is to make a shell top – which, for all you kids of the 80s, is not part of a shell suit.
It’s a classic sleeveless blouse that needs a button at the back. Next it’s the transformation challenge and the sewers must turn up to three old T-shirts into a single garment in just 90 minutes.
Watch out for a couple of terrifying results including a very odd placement of pussy cats and roses. Finally, mannequins are replaced with models as they make a buffet dress – a full dress with no defined waist, which sounds perfect for a buffet.
One sewer will win Garment of the Week but for one, their journey will begin to unravel.