DRESSMAKER (or SEAMSTRESS)
In the community there might have been a lady who was talented in sewing. Most of the women made their own clothes but the dressmaker could sew special outfits. She usually worked out of her home, sewing clothing to earn some money. A lady was very fortunate to own a sewing machine. If business was good a dressmaker might set up a dress shop on the main street of town. Hats and material were also sold at a dress shop.
TAILOR SHOP
A tailor was a person who sewed suits, coats, pants, shirts and jackets for men. Men had suits made for special occasions (weddings) or a suit for church. The customer chose the cloth. After taking measurements the tailor prepared a paper pattern, cut the cloth and sewed the pieces together on a sewing machine. A tailors also made coats for women and children.
SEWING MACHINES
Later, more women were able to afford sewing machines. This made it easier for them to sew clothes for their families. The material and sewing supplies could be bought at the dry goods store.