Virgin Islander Linette Hodge Unveils Custom Bridal
Linette Hodge, a native of Tortola, has officially launched Behind The Seams, LLC, a custom bridal and fashion design studio in South Carolina. With a passion for design kindled in her childhood by her Aunt Estella, Linette brings a slice of Virgin Islands craftsmanship and quality to the international stage.
In the heart of South Carolina, a piece of the Virgin Islands thrives through the craftsmanship and dedication of Linette Hodge, who has recently opened Behind The Seams, LLC, a studio dedicated to custom bridal and fashion design. Linette, who fondly recalls summer days spent beading lace under the tutelage of her Aunt Estella on Tortola, has brought a lifetime of passion and experience to her new venture.
From her early days learning the intricacies of dressmaking in the Virgin Islands, Linette's journey in the fashion industry has been both varied and rich. After graduating from high school, she moved to New York and was admitted to the prestigious Traphagen School of Design. There, her career blossomed from pattern making to designing children’s wear and swimwear, eventually leading her to South Carolina, where her path would take a serendipitous turn.
Throughout her career, Linette has not only made her mark in design but also in education, developing a curriculum for mature students at Greenville Technical College to learn about design and garment construction. Her adaptability and passion for fashion saw her through the pandemic as a traveling seamstress, bringing her talents directly to clients' homes across the country.
It was her friendship with a retiring designer, Gregory Ellenburg, that paved the way for the establishment of Behind The Seams, LLC. Linette's venture represents not just a return to her design roots but a commitment to quality and craftsmanship in an era dominated by fast fashion.
She emphasizes the importance of creating pieces that stand the test of time, much like the jacket she made for her mother over a decade ago that remains a cherished item. Behind The Seams, LLC offers a unique opportunity for brides and bridal parties, not just in the United States but globally, to experience the personalized, high-quality service that Linette embodies.
Her story is a testament to the enduring influence of Virgin Islands culture and craftsmanship on the world stage, bringing a touch of home to every garment she creates. For those in the Virgin Islands and beyond, Linette's journey from a curious child on Tortola to an accomplished designer and business owner is a source of inspiration and pride.
Behind The Seams, LLC is not just a studio; it's a celebration of Virgin Islands heritage, craftsmanship, and the timeless beauty of bespoke fashion.
Primary source: VI Property&Yacht