Today we’d like to introduce you to Viktoria James.
Hi Viktoria, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I began my journey in Germany, where I completed the traditional Massschneider apprenticeship (bespoke tailor training) one of the most rigorous and highly respected forms of tailoring and dressmaking education.
In Germany, tailoring is not something you simply learn casually. It is a formal, structured, multi-year program that combines craftsmanship, technical precision, design knowledge, and professional discipline at the highest level. This Ausbildung (apprenticeship training) is designed to teach not only how to sew, but how to truly understand garments and the business of garment-making from the inside out: how they are engineered, balanced, shaped, and perfected.
During my training, I studied advanced pattern drafting, garment construction, and design, learning how to create pieces from the first concept and sketch all the way to the final couture finish. This included draping, precise fitting, and reshaping garments for many different body types, as well as understanding how proportion, structure, and support can completely transform the way clothing looks and feels. We also explored the history of tailoring and dressmaking, and the traditional techniques that continue to define true craftsmanship today.
We trained deeply in textile science how fabrics are woven and constructed, how different materials behave, and how they respond to tension, movement, weight, and wear. Knowing how fabric performs is essential to choosing the correct techniques for each garment.
A major part of the apprenticeship is mastering traditional and modern couture techniques, including hand-sewn finishing, internal structure work, professional pressing and shaping, and the kind of detailed craftsmanship that is often invisible but makes all the difference in the final result.
Becoming a Master Tailor in Germany requires formal examinations and the ability to construct complete garments to the highest professional standard, and that foundation continues to shape the way I work today.
After moving to Texas, I continued in the world of formalwear and special occasion tailoring and quickly realized there was a real need for truly precise, couture-level craftsmanship.
That inspired me to open my own studio, where I bring a bespoke, European approach to clients across Central Texas. Today, I work on everything from wedding gowns and couture bridal alterations to formal evening-wear, military ball gowns, prom dresses, suits, and custom-made garments always with the goal of creating a flawless fit and an elevated final result.
What began as a small step grew through word of mouth, and I now have the privilege of working with clients and bridal shops throughout the region on intricate alterations, redesigns, and one-of-a-kind custom pieces.
Above all, I believe my clients deserve to feel confident and proud in what they wear. I approach every garment with honesty, precision, and care because the goal is always for the client to walk into their moment feeling their absolute best.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely has not been a completely smooth road. Building a business rooted in true craftsmanship takes time, patience, and a lot of education especially in a world where many people don’t fully understand what goes into high-level tailoring.
One of the biggest challenges has been helping clients understand the true value of what I offer. People will sometimes use the word “seamstress,” but my background is in bespoke tailoring and dressmaking a formally trained craft that goes far beyond basic alterations. It can take time for clients to recognize the difference between simple adjustments and couture-level work: precision fitting, internal structure, pattern expertise, and detailed hand-finishing that completely transforms how a garment looks and feels.
Another challenge has been starting fresh in a new country and building trust and recognition from the ground up. Establishing myself in Central Texas, forming relationships with bridal shops, and growing through word of mouth has been a journey but also one I’m very proud of.
On the custom design side, sourcing the right materials has also been a struggle. High-quality fabrics, laces, and couture supplies are not always easily available locally, and for certain projects I travel to Europe to select materials in person. For me, fabric is the foundation of the garment, and I want to ensure the quality is exceptional something that can be difficult to guarantee when ordering online.
Overall, the road has come with challenges, but each one has strengthened my commitment to offering something truly special: expert craftsmanship, honesty, and a level of care that makes clients feel supported and confident.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Vi.Freya & Alterations ?
My business is built around one core idea: exceptional craftsmanship and a truly bespoke experience.
I specialize in couture-level alterations and custom tailoring for wedding gowns, formal evening wear, military ball gowns, prom dresses, and one-of-a-kind garments. Whether a client needs a gown reshaped, a perfect hem, custom support added, or a complete redesign, my work is always focused on precision, structure, and an elevated finish.
What sets my studio apart is the foundation of my training. I come from a traditional German Master Tailor background, where garments are approached as both art and engineering. I don’t believe in quick fixes or “good enough.” Every piece is treated with the same level of care, whether it is a bridal gown with intricate lace or a formal dress that needs to fit flawlessly for an important event.
I am especially known for detailed work that requires experience beyond basic alterations corsetry, bodice restructuring, couture hand-finishing, and tailoring that enhances the silhouette while still feeling comfortable and secure.
Brand-wise, I am most proud of creating a space where clients feel supported, understood, and confident. My studio is appointment-only and intentionally personal, allowing each garment to receive the attention it deserves. I want my clients to feel that their piece is in expert hands from the first fitting to the final stitch.
What I want readers to know is that my work is about more than altering clothing it is about helping people step into life’s most meaningful moments feeling beautiful, empowered, and perfectly fitted.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I love most about the Austin and Central Texas area is the incredible diversity of people and events. I work with such a wide range of clients brides, military families, prom students, professionals, and creatives and that variety allows me to be constantly inspired and challenged in the best way. It’s a community where people celebrate meaningful moments, and I feel honored to be part of that through my work.
What can be a bit difficult is that high-end sewing and couture supply resources are still limited locally. For truly exceptional fabrics, laces, and specialized materials, I often have to source from outside the area or travel to Europe to find the quality I want for my clients. But at the same time, it pushes me to bring something unique and elevated to this region.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.vfreya.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vi.freya
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BrgzvaaaY/
Image Credits
Katja Jones ( picture of me )
Donald James ( all the other pictures)
