Embracing Inclusivity in Home Sewing
The Reach of Mimi G and Know Me by Mimi G
SEPTEMBER 2024
This article is part of our A Stitch In Time campaign.
Home sewing and crafting has evolved over the years. It's no longer just about making clothes; it's about expressing individuality, celebrating diversity, and fostering inclusivity. Two brands that exemplify these values are Mimi G and Know Me by Mimi G. These brands are not just about patterns—they’re about community, empowerment, and inclusivity.
Mimi G: A Trailblazer in the Sewing World
Mimi G is a name synonymous with DIY modern home sewing and crafting. She’s more than just a designer; she's a movement. Starting as a social media influencer, Mimi G has grown into a powerhouse within the sewing community. Launched in 2014 with Simplicity, her licensed line was critical in establishing a space for new designers, makers, and creators coming to the forefront of the industry. While today we are accustomed to “influencers”, 10 years ago it was still a novel concept and potentially a risky investment.
What makes Mimi G truly special is her commitment to inclusivity. Her patterns cater to a range of sizes with select styles graded up to 38W, ensuring that regardless of body type, people can create clothing that makes them feel confident and beautiful. Her decade long collaboration with Simplicity Patterns has extended her vision of wearable chic designs to the everyday sewist, encouraging creative edgier on trend garments that are not usually found in traditional retailers.
Her influence extends beyond just the patterns. Mimi G is dedicated to educating and empowering her audience. Through the Simplicity YouTube channel, and Sew It Academy, she’s taught over 800K people how to sew, breaking down the barriers that often make sewing seem inaccessible. Her step-by-step video tutorials and Sew-Alongs allow for even beginners to achieve professional results. Mimi G's passion for the craft is infectious, inspiring a new generation of sewists to pick up their needles and thread.
Know Me by Mimi G: Elevating Diverse Voices
Following the success of her eponymous line, Mimi G launched Know Me by Mimi G, a groundbreaking brand that amplifies the voices of diverse designers and creators within the sewing community. This line is unique because it’s designed “by makers for makers”. Mimi G handpicks talented designers and influencers, giving them a platform to share their creative vision with a wider audience.
Know Me patterns are a celebration of diversity in every sense—size, style, and cultural background. The brand offers an impressive range of sizes from and designs that cater to different tastes, from modern streetwear to timeless classics. Each pattern comes with detailed instructions and video Sew-Alongs lead by the Know Me designer who created the pattern, making it accessible to sewists of most skill levels. What’s more, Know Me is not just about fashion; it’s about community. The designers behind the patterns share their personal stories and journeys, creating a deep connection with the sewing community.
"Know Me by Mimi G has opened the door for so many talented designers, offering them the chance to share their unique perspectives on fashion. There’s so much creativity waiting to be explored, and I see the brand continuing to grow, providing opportunities for those who may not have had formal training. Sewing patterns are here to stay because they empower people to bring their visions to life—whether it's recreating runway looks or developing their personal style." Explains Brittany J. Jones, Know Me Designer. Jones further elaborates, "What makes Know Me by Mimi G truly special is that it's all about the individual—each designer’s vision is at the heart of every collection. Mimi looks at all the designer’s submissions, creating a collection that blends diverse styles and personalities. It’s more than just patterns; it’s about connecting with the designers themselves, following their journey, and seeing their personal style come to life."
Looking Forward: The Future of Home Sewing
Mimi G and Know Me by Mimi G are more than just brands; they are movements that represent a broadening future for home sewing. They champion inclusivity, body positivity, and the belief that fashion can be for anyone.
Whether you’re new to sewing or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone in these collections. So, grab a pattern, some fabric, and join the movement—because sewing is more than a hobby; it’s a celebration of who we are. Explore these collections and join a community of sewists who believe that fashion can be for anyone.