Marlboro Mom Channels Her Inner Tim Gunn With Doll Fashion

Leslie Weinreich has experience in handbags, custom fashions, design, and now doll clothing.

Weinreich, a Marlboro mother of two, created Sew Cute Doll Clothing when she realized the demand. With the continued American Girl Doll trend, Weinreich spotted a market she couldn't ignore.

And so she and her then 12-year-old daughter embarked on what would become a popular business at craft shows, school fundraisers and online.

"It's something I can do with my daughter, on the weekends," Weinreich said.

Weinreich's passion for custom clothing took her through the Fashion Institute of Technology. However, she said the custom clothing business has become expensive, and alternatives at bigger box stores have helped shrink the industry.

So the Marlboro mother began sewing doll clothes as gifts for friends and family. Now, she travels to juried craft shows all over the state.

Weinreich hand sews custom clothing based on customer requests, and even makes some outfits for both 18 inch dolls and their human best friends.

"I can make what the girls are wearing today," Weinreich said. "And, I get to teach my 12-year-old about business."

Weinreich's daughter helped make the original Sew Cute Doll Clothing website, which as since been updated, and is learning how to sew. Weinreich said her daughter helps her during weekend craft shows all over the state, and has an eye for business.

The Sew Cute Doll website features custom outfits, including Jets and Giants pajamas, as well as dresses and seasonal outfits which fit an 18 inch doll.

"I get to make money and I'm with my kids. I'm dressing dolls, how could that not be fun?"