BEHIND THE SEAMS

Tailor-Made Spring Outfitting

By: Alex Gery & Laura Sanderson

And Free People-infused.

I’ve always had an affinity for more structured, dare I say “clean” outfitting. I like the freedom it affords me… meaning on most days I spend less time thinking about how this top complements these bottoms because tailored looks tend to do that work for you – trousers, blazers, smart accessories. But such silhouettes can look and feel a little stiff at times, like they’re missing some je nai se quois? Especially if I did want to be as bold as to pair them all in one overwhelmingly tailored look… it might feel just overwhelmingly – basic.

If you’re here, it’s (hopefully!) because you appreciate nuance, the little things, the things that are ever so slightly “off,” or unexpected. So in true FP fashion, the team here has assumed the challenge of adding the unexpected – and fun! – into these timeless and forever-trend worthy shapes and accompaniments. Meet the new Tailor Made.

For more behind the inspiration and creation of this only-at-Free-People capsule, here are Alex, our Global Head of Design; and Laura, our Styling Director:

OUR GLOBAL HEAD OF DESIGN, ON CREATING A NEW “RELAXED” YET “POLISHED” TAILORED VISION:

This challenge, though incredibly rewarding, wasn’t necessarily an easy one.

For starters, the design team had to consider what this could bring to our community, both loyal and new. Meaning, how can fabric choices, interior details, be melded with something generally viewed as more of a slick “city vibe” to make tailoring feel new and still Free People?

And additionally, could tailored FP looks can take on more of a new “day-to-night” vibe?

The answer was yes – and yes.
With thoughtful approaches to seaming, fabrication, and even special tags.

“What I love about this tailoring collection is that it feels like the foundation of We The Free, with the detailing of Free People. It sits so naturally with We The Free bags, a denim jacket, and preppier references.”

OUR STYLIST, ON HOW DESIGN DETAILS TRANSLATED INTO FUN, ELEVATED DRESSING:

“In true Free People fashion, these silhouettes are unique to us. For example, the staple Sabine button-down has a slight cinch at the waist and barrel-shaped sleeves. All of bottoms in this collection come with beautiful sashes/ribbons that can be worn around the waist. They are removable so I made sure we highlighted how someone might utilize these ribbons in multiple ways – all the trimmings! Like tying the ribbon around a bag strap, or intertwining them into a wrap sandal, wearing them as a menswear tie, etc.

“Since tailoring product can generally read a bit more serious, we wanted to make sure we brought sensuality and extra playfulness into our styling. It was fun to incorporate ALL the personality through bag charms, scarves, shoe charms, and other accessory details. Wanted each look to feel personalized.

“Regarding the overall color palette, we loved playing off the navy, red, and stripes!

“Speaking to proportion, loved balancing some of the bigger bottoms with body-skimming tops and shrunken third pieces.”

SOME OF OUR DESIGN TEAM’S FAVORITE TAILOR-MADE FABRICS

MERCERIZIED COTTON – Buckle Back Trouser
This mercerized cotton satin offers a soft touch with its smooth, satin weave, enhanced by a peached finish that provides a velvety feel. Mercerization boosts its strength and sheen, and the perfect weight and finish feels crisp and elevated.

DRAPEY TENCEL – Dimes Tie Trouser & Perfect Prep Trouser Short
This fabric combines the fluidity of Tencel with the subtle texture of linen, creating a beautifully draping, breathable material with a smooth, structured finish. Its refined sheen adds elegance, making it ideal for day-to-night transition.

COTTON SHIRTING – Sabine Mercerized Cotton
This cotton poplin is mercerized, enhancing its natural luster, strength, and color retention. The result is a smooth, crisp feel that makes it an instant go-to choice for any occasion.