Jasmine measures up for corset couture

Nineteen-year-old Jasmine Woodcraft is staging a 'made to measure corset day' in Dingwall on Thursday (6 September) in Branded, a Dingwall fashion store.

The entertaining event will focus on the magic of corsetry, allowing people to see and try on different styles, feel the materials available and take the opportunity to order a made to measure corset on the day.

The new business, Jasmine Isabella Couture Design, designs and manufactures bespoke garments focusing on unique wedding dresses. "I want to establish three different ranges - corsets, bridalwear and evening wear which includes, for a bit of fun, clubbing outfits. All of them will be designed and made by me," said Jasmine.

She explained, "I taught myself to sew at young age, and since then have experimented with anything I could get my hands on. I was constantly doing sewing jobs for friends and family and, as these jobs became more regular, I realised that there is a demand for this type of service."

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) creative industries development manager, Gillian MacDonald, said: "Since Jasmine received a start up grant her confidence has gone from strength to strength. She has registered her business, trademarked the business name and is about to launch her website." www.jasmineisabella.co.uk 

Business skills courses supported by the HIE network also played their part. "As I became busier with sewing jobs, I grew more interested in the design aspects of sewing, and that led me into the field of dressmaking," Jasmine continued.

"In 2006 I did a machine skills course in Dingwall supported by the local enterprise company and then went on to do two courses with the London College of Fashion on Bridalwear. This year I've done another course at the London College of Fashion on beading techniques and a course in Glasgow about corsetry."

In addition to the 'made to measure corset day' Jasmine is launching a new collection of five stunning tops in Branded, on Monday, September 24). The collection is geared to putting a different slant on fashion for those who would like to own a one-off piece for a night out on the town.