It’s a topic she’s passionate about and has now made her business – Amlin Alterations.
Her independent clothes repair and alterations business serves Cardiff and the Vale and is flourishing in the area.
Kelis, 21, who has lived in Penarth her whole life, graduated from De Montfort University with a degree in Contour Fashion.
She decided her skills would be a valuable addition to the local area.
Passionate about fashion, she believes the work she does helps people feel comfortable in the clothes they wear.
She says: “Clothing nowadays is designed to a set of measurements that has been averaged. It makes people so confused.”
Her services include school uniforms, zip replacements, shortening hems, and taking in occasion wear or Indian outfits.
A local resident has already recommended Amlin Alterations to parents in the area. She said: “I can highly recommend Kelis. She did a great job altering a school blazer.”
A particular highlight for Kelis has been the opportunity to alter some bridesmaids’ dresses. She took in the waist and added rings and sliders to the straps to make them adjustable.
When asked about this experience, she says: “Bridesmaid dresses are made with very delicate fabrics and it is a challenge. I take pride in my work and have spent a lot of time practising with my sewing machine.”
With local residents concerned about the ongoing environmental crisis, Kelis believes Amlin Alterations can fit perfectly into a community focused on sustainability.
She says: “I get a lot of people bringing me clothes from relatives, hand-me-downs from their aunties and mums, and a lot of quite lovely dresses.
“I think I’m definitely contributing to sustainability within fashion by giving things a new life and making them work for the client.”
She says she’s proud of the business she has created and highlights her ability to ‘make people feel good in their clothes.’
When possible, she offers collection and drop-off services free of charge within the Penarth area.
