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Helen Symonds

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Helen Symonds

19/04/2026

My most recent work.
Such an honour and privilege to make ❤️

03/01/2026

New for 2026

A new chapter, shaped by care.

As 2026 begins, I wanted to share a shift in my work that comes from a very real place one rooted in care, sustainability, and the desire to keep creating in a way that is healthy and meaningful.

I’m now offering sewing alterations, repairs, and remakes, alongside my costume and education work. This is about working with material in a thoughtful way adjusting garments so they sit as they should, mending areas that have been worn by life, and reimagining pieces so they can be worn and loved again. From much-loved clothing to second-hand finds, every piece carries a story worth respecting.

After many years working within creative industries that are under increasing strain, I’ve reached a point where I need to choose a way of working that protects my wellbeing as well as my craft. Rising costs, shrinking budgets, and unrealistic expectations too often place the burden on the maker. I don’t want to lose my love for this work or leave it altogether, simply because the system makes it unsustainable to stay.

Sustainability is a choice made stitch by stitch. We can repair, amend, and remake, or we can discard and replace. By choosing care, we honour the labour, materials, and hands involved in making our clothes.

This service is offered on a limited weekly basis, allowing each garment the time and attention it deserves. I don’t rush this work, because quality, care, and wellbeing matter deeply.

Teaching and mentoring the next generation of makers remains at the heart of my practice. Passing on skills, knowledge, and respect for the making process is one of the most meaningful parts of what I do, and I hope it helps shape a kinder, more sustainable future for our industry.
If you’d like to support my work and help ensure there is still space for independent seamstresses, artists, and craftspeople to thrive I would truly love to work with you. Whether it’s a simple repair, a careful alteration, or a creative remake, your choice makes a difference.

Thank you for being here, for valuing handmade work, sustainable choices, thoughtful making and the people behind the seams.  
Helen
🩷

14/11/2025

From the archives -

A little collage from Going Country - a powerful and gritty short film I had the privilege of costuming back in 2019. Written by the brilliant Laura Turner and directed by the incredible Phil Stevens, the story tackles the harsh realities of county lines, exploitation, and the search for truth through the eyes of a young girl caught in a devastating world.
Working on this project opened my eyes to just how close these stories sit to our own doorsteps. It was an honour to collaborate with such a talented team .roe and an exceptional cast including .official . The entire crew were phenomenal from start to finish.
A truly valuable experience, and always wonderful to see how everyone continues to grow in their creative journeys. Wishing continued success to all involved and looking forward to future opportunities to tell meaningful stories through costume.

10/05/2025

Costuming .core

Design concept by Shakira Khan

It was an honour to develop, design and create this national costume and has been wonderful to incorporate our heritage, traditions and iconic culture into this design.

National Costume-

This show stopping national costume celebrates the heart, heritage, and vibrancy of the United Kingdom through symbolic storytelling and eye-catching design.

The bodice is crafted in the shape of the iconic Union Jack, with the flag’s bold lines transforming into sculpted flame like accents rising from the shoulders representing the torch of our nation, burning brightly with pride, power, and resilience.

The voluminous layered skirt cascades in four dynamic tiers, each representing one of the four nations within the UK: England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. The shimmering base layer reflects the surrounding waters that define our island nation. Stained glass mosaic details pay homage to our rich architectural history most notably Lincoln Cathedral, home of our reigning Miss UK.

Shattered mirror pieces and playful tassels bring sparkle and movement, representing not only the glamour of the West End and Strictly Come Dancing, but also the breaking of stigmas and barriers surrounding mental health, elevating Miss Petite UK and empowering her to become the incredible, inspiring woman she is.

The costume is finished with lace bunting, a nod to Britain’s beloved tradition of cream teas. A grand statement hat, inspired by race day fashion, is adorned with a gold detailed teapot, teacup, and plate of strawberries infusing the design with elegance and charm.

At the back, a dramatic oversized Union Jack bow stands proud, with trailing ribbons in red, white, and blue a vibrant tribute to the legendary Red Arrows flypast and a subtle homage to British fashion icon Vivienne Westwood.

31/03/2025

Exciting Announcement! ✨
I’m thrilled to share that Helen Symonds Costumes has been asked to design and create the national costume for the incredible Charlotte Core, representing the UK at Miss Global in Malaysia! 🇬🇧👑

This is a huge honour, and I can’t wait to bring this vision to life with all the drama, craftsmanship, and storytelling that a national costume deserves! ✨ Stay tuned for behind-the-scenes peeks and the final reveal of this show-stopping creation.

Thank you to Charlotte for trusting me to design and create for you. I can’t wait to see my design come to life on the international stage! 🌎
core

31/01/2025

No need to explain, I just need to take a break.

I implore you to enjoy “the real life” too with self care at the heart.

Creatives remember that original artwork and creativity comes from within and nature inspires.

03/11/2024

With the majority of my costumes being designed for theatre and events it is rare that they are seen more than once. So here’s a selection of costumes with a creepy aesthetic that I’m pulling from the archives to share with you. I meant to share this for Halloween 🎃 however work has had kept me rather busy as I’ve been immersed in current projects.

You may remember some of these and for those of you new to my page here’s a selection of the weird and obscure characters I have created costumes.

🤍

06/10/2024

Working on ‘s makeup look.
Something I’ve always loved doing to complete each costume look.
Self taught and with the help, advice and inspiration from some incredible MUA’s I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the years.
Such as

Can’t wait to reveal this costume creation so watch this space…

In shot - .annie
Photo - .oldhambackstage

31/07/2024

So grateful for all the wonderful feedback and messages in response to the exhibition held thank you!

The exhibition is open until 01/09/24 in the discovery room in Lincoln cathedral. Where I am exhibiting a selection of costumes created for ‘s production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. With creations also from . View up close the costumes created and learn about the design concept behind the designs. Original artwork from and is woven and incorporated into the fabrics creating completely unique and one-off fabric prints used to create the costumes.
Photography included in the exhibition by and fabrics printed by &

Come along and see while you can and please do let me know what you think ❤️

Can you spot the imp? He’s hiding in there too!

07/05/2024

Such a fantastic night & Red carpet event cinema in Leicester Square. With my gorgeous date ❤️ photographed by

Grateful for the opportunity to work as costume designer for Agatha mistress of swords, working with an amazing group of creatives and awesome to see my name in the credits.

It was so lovely to see you all again too!

Until next time!

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Minster Yard
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