Your Perfect Fit, My Passion

I'm Silvia Gale from Stitches Matter Alteration Business. After 20 years in fashion and dressmaking, I noticed women over 40 were constantly frustrated - buying clothes that almost fit but never quite right. The problem? Most alteration services treat every body the same.

I specialise exclusively in alterations for women 40+. I understand how our bodies change, what works, and what doesn't. Whether it's a professional wardrobe that needs updating, special occasion wear, or just making your favourite pieces fit perfectly again, I combine my fashion design background with genuine care for each client.

My clients don't just get better-fitting clothes - they get their confidence back. Because when something fits perfectly, you feel it. That's why every stitch matters.

Where It All Began

My love affair with fashion began in childhood, inspired by the elegance and grace of Princess Diana. As a young girl, I was captivated not just by her stunning gowns, but by something deeper - her effortless elegance, the way every garment seemed to fit her perfectly, and how she carried herself with such natural poise.

Whilst other children played with toys, I was busy creating tiny couture pieces for my dolls, meticulously crafting miniature versions of the elegant dresses I admired. My father, a master storyteller, would weave magical tales of princesses in flowing gowns, fuelling my imagination and dreams of creating perfect dresses.

The Pink Organza Moment

During my second year of my Dressmaking Degree, I faced a pivotal project - creating a special occasion dress. Without hesitation, I chose pink organza, a tribute to both my childhood inspiration and my father's princess stories.

That pink organza dress wasn't just an assignment; it was a revelation. In those delicate layers and precise seams, I discovered my true calling. The way the fabric moved, how the fit could transform a silhouette, the magic of creating something beautiful that made the wearer feel special - this was what I was meant to do.

My Approach Today

With two decades of fashion expertise, I've built my practice around understanding the unique needs of mature women. Our bodies evolve, our lifestyles change, and our clothing should evolve with us. At Stitches Matter, located in Reading, Berkshire, I don't just provide alterations - I provide solutions that celebrate who you are now.

I've seen the transformation that happens when something fits perfectly. It's not just about the clothes - it's about how you carry yourself, how you feel when you look in the mirror, and the confidence that comes from knowing you look your best.

The Legacy of Elegance

Diana's greatest gift wasn't just her style - it was her ability to make others feel special, confident, and beautiful. This is what drives my work at Stitches Matter. Every alteration, every perfect fit, every moment when a client sees themselves transformed in the mirror - this is my way of honouring that legacy of elegance and care.

Just as Diana's clothes were expressions of grace and confidence, I believe every piece that passes through my hands should make its wearer feel truly special.

Because ultimately, fashion isn't about the clothes - it's about how they make you feel.

And sometimes, the perfect fit can change everything.

My Story - From Childhood Dreams to Fashion Reality