
Why Handmade Clothing Lasts Longer Than Fast Fashion
- Deahnna Dunstan

- Nov 2
- 3 min read
In a world full of fast fashion trends and fleeting fads, there’s something truly special about investing in handmade clothing. Beyond the beauty and individuality, handmade pieces are created with care, skill, and intention—qualities that make them last much longer than their mass-produced counterparts.
For those of us in Australia, supporting handmade clothing means not only enjoying timeless, durable pieces but also uplifting local makers and small businesses who put their heart into every stitch.
The Difference Between Handmade and Fast Fashion
Fast fashion thrives on quick turnarounds and low-cost production. Clothes are often made from synthetic fabrics, with minimal attention to stitching quality or fabric durability. They’re designed to be worn a handful of times before stretching, fading, or falling apart.
Handmade clothing, on the other hand, is created with time, care, and energy. Makers choose their fabrics thoughtfully, stitch with purpose, and take pride in knowing exactly where their creations end up. When you buy handmade, you can see the face and story behind what you’re wearing—whether it’s your neighbour, a friend, or a small business right here in our own backyard.
Why Handmade Clothing Lasts Longer
✨ Quality Fabrics
Makers often choose natural, sustainable, or premium fabrics—cotton, linen, or vintage finds—that age beautifully and resist wear.
✨ Attention to Detail
From reinforced seams to carefully matched patterns, handmade garments are sewn to last rather than cut for speed.
✨ Better Fit & Comfort
Because many handmade clothes are designed with the wearer in mind, they often fit better and feel more comfortable—reducing the need for constant replacements.
✨ True Value
Yes, handmade often costs more than fast fashion. But when you understand the time, skill, and love that go into each piece, it feels less like a splurge and more like an investment—one that will last years instead of months.
Why I Love Vintage & Upcycled Fabrics
That’s also why I love working with vintage linen, thrifted fabrics, and up-cycled textiles. In a world of new trends and fast-changing fads, there’s magic in creating something new from something that already exists.
I see so much potential in the aged floral bedding piling up in Nana’s cupboard or the tablecloths sitting on an op-shop shelf—often just weeks away from landfill. What some may call old or dated can be transformed into something beautiful, new, and lasting.
That’s why I create dresses and clothing from vintage florals that were once linen, curtains, or tablecloths. They feel like home. They feel like a warm hug. And they become something you want to keep forever.
Supporting Handmade Clothing in Australia
When you choose handmade here at home, you’re not just buying clothing. You’re:
Supporting local makers and small businesses
Giving vintage and pre-loved fabrics a second life
Helping families and communities thrive
Investing in clothing made with integrity and sustainability
At Shereedee Designs, every dress, romper, and accessory is made with patience and purpose. Many of my fabrics are thrifted or repurposed, meaning each piece carries a story as unique as the one who wears it.
Final Thoughts
Fast fashion may come and go, but handmade clothing—especially when created with upcycled or vintage fabrics—stands the test of time. It’s durable, thoughtful, sustainable, and made with heart. When you choose handmade, you’re choosing quality, community, and something to truly treasure.
✨ Ready to wear something that lasts? Browse my collection of handcrafted pieces made with love here at Shereedee Designs.

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