No, I don’t sew much. I can successfully make one skirt pattern and one jumper pattern, but it’s hard to get two hours uninterrupted even to make the skirt. Mostly I shop at The Salvation Army.
There’s a whole world of beautiful outfits, from different countries and eras, including styles that will flatter even a very stout figure, but it seems as if many women consumers are simply blind. With what is currently for sale, at best a lady can look tidy and dignified, and perhaps find a flattering color, but there isn’t much that’s really gorgeous, even in formal gowns, as you observed.
Resale shopping is the way to go. I’m often surprised that more people don’t do it. The prices are low and the quality is high. If you’re willing to shop retail, resale is a winner all around.