“Am I really going to fashion school at 32?”

I realized I wanted to live in the mountains, where I could snowboard and bike whenever possible. I wanted the freedom to work for myself, learn a new skill, create something, help the planet, have variety in my life, be flexible, and travel and return home when I want to.

At 32, I decided it was time for a change. I explored several options, including upholstery, interior design, and architecture, and researched courses worldwide. With no prior sewing experience but a strong passion and desire to learn a new skill, I packed my bags and drove to Olds, Alberta, to begin my journey in fashion.

The following two years were a wild rollercoaster of emotions and challenges, but I kept my head down and absorbed as much knowledge as possible. It was everything, but that was my life and why I was there.

It involved working six, sometimes even six and a half, days a week for 10 to 18 hours. I would wake up with a Red Bull and go to bed completely exhausted. It was intense, and the learning curve was steep.

I chose to study at Olds College because I wanted to focus on developing my sewing skills rather than designing clothes. I had a clear vision of what I wanted to create; I needed to learn how to bring my ideas to life. I didn't want to move to New York or Milan, nor did I want to design for someone else. I aimed to create versatile, flattering, and cool clothing for everyday wear.

We learned everything about sewing techniques, pattern drafting, fashion illustration, and fashion history. We worked on lingerie, ski wear, swimwear, and high-end couture fabrics. It was fun, but it was also stressful, and it made me cry. I spent too many hours unpicking days of work. 

I loved returning to school in my 30s because I was there for one reason: my playtime was over. The course required my full attention, and I was focused on learning. It worked out perfectly since I was five hours away from all my friends in Panorama, which meant I had no distractions, nothing else to do, and no ski hills to play on.

The teachers were highly knowledgeable, and I absorbed every word they spoke and every stitch they created. Although intense, it was incredibly rewarding and one of my proudest experiences. 

There is no perfect age to return to school; it’s simply when you feel ready to learn. If you want it and work towards it, you can achieve it. Enjoy the journey and pursue your dreams. Check out my other blogs on the highs and lows of sewing and follow the Untamed Journey. 

Check out my other blogs on the highs and lows of sewing and why I have so many more grey hairs. 

Have you checked out the Art for the Untamed Mood Collection? 

PS. Yes, that is me modelling my designs on the catwalk at fashion school, haha. It was so fun and so out of my comfort zone.

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