Recently, we met up with Adventure Nanny and Denver dress designer, Tess Vigil, of 50 Dresses by Tess.

With a BA from Columbia University, an MA in education from Loyola Marymount, and her own fashion label, Tess has combined two of her many talents, education and fashion to impact her community in a positive direction.

Vigil has created sewing lessons to inspire and educate kids 6+. Tess makes the lessons fun and productive, and without knowing it the kids who attend are developing skills that can be applied for years to come.

We asked Tess to give us 7 ways she feels sewing classes are essential for youth.

1. Immediate results of making a project can boost self esteem and a can-do attitude.

2. Offers different dexterity and mind-body connection challenges than other academic activities.

3. Learning to sew at an early age can result in a life long skill that is never lost and can be enjoyed in years to come.

4. Practical homesteading skills are rarely taught in schools and are valuable life skills.

5. Helps build fine motor skills and patience!

6. Great creative outlet.

7. Starts a conversation and build awareness around where clothing comes from and how much work goes into it.

We are so inspired and ready to sew!  To learn more about the classes that are offered and to view Tess Vigil’s amazing dress collections,  visit her website here.