The Vintage Fashion Guild mourns the loss of Claire B. Shaeffer, a beloved longtime member, renowned couture expert, and tireless educator, who passed away on January 11, 2025. Her death leaves a deep void for the VFG, but her extraordinary legacy—a wealth of knowledge generously shared with all—will continue to inspire generations.
News of Claire’s unexpected passing swiftly spread through the sewing and vintage fashion communities, prompting an outpouring of grief and tributes. Her son, James Shaeffer, simply stated, “With Claire’s passing, her unique style, expertise, and authority will be deeply missed.” This understatement reflects the profound impact she had.
Claire’s skill was unparalleled. As detailed in a recent Threads magazine article, she was an internationally recognized authority on haute couture construction, possessing a seemingly encyclopedic knowledge cultivated through decades of dedicated study. She meticulously researched garment construction in her extensive collection (a remarkable 2,500 pieces, including 600 Chanel suits, bequeathed to Syracuse University’s fashion design program), museum archives, and directly from the artisans themselves. Her approach was both scholarly and intensely practical, driven by insatiable curiosity and a desire to understand—and share—the secrets of haute couture artistry.
Judith Neukam, contributing editor emerita at Threads, who collaborated with Claire on numerous videos, recalled her unwavering dedication: “She would go straight to the maker…and ask, ‘How was this done?’” This relentless pursuit of knowledge fueled her prolific career as a Vogue Patterns designer (creating at least 45 couture patterns since 2001), author of numerous books (including the seminal Couture Sewing Techniques), and frequent contributor to Threads magazine and her own YouTube channel. Even her instructions for seemingly simple garments were celebrated for their comprehensive approach and authentic couture techniques. As Carlos Correa, fashion design team leader at IG Design Group Americas, noted, Claire’s Vogue patterns often included twice the instructions of average patterns, offering, in his words, “a masterclass in tailoring and hand sewing.”
Beyond her publications and patterns, Claire was a beloved teacher and mentor, sharing her knowledge through workshops, college courses, and lectures at conferences such as those held by the Association for Sewing and Design Professionals. Her generosity extended beyond formal settings; countless individuals remember her willingness to share expertise and offer personalized guidance and support. Couture expert Mary Funt described Claire’s “encyclopedic knowledge” and her readiness to assist, recalling a detailed conversation about a specific tailoring technique. Margo Martin, Executive Director of the American Sewing Guild, where Claire was a cherished member for over 40 years, called her a “godmother” to the organization, highlighting her enthusiastic participation and commitment to mentorship. For the Vintage Fashion Guild, Claire was a treasured font of wisdom who was unfailingly curious, supportive and warm.
Claire’s collaborations with museum curators, such as Phyllis Magidson at the Museum of the City of New York and Timothy Long at the Chicago History Museum, demonstrate her dedication to preserving and sharing the history of couture. Her meticulous photographic documentation and insightful analyses significantly contributed to exhibitions and publications, making valuable knowledge accessible to a wider audience.
Claire Shaeffer’s impact on the world of fashion history and sewing is immeasurable. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she mentored, the students she inspired, and the countless people who will continue to benefit from her tireless pursuit of knowledge and generous spirit. The Vintage Fashion Guild is deeply saddened by her loss, yet profoundly grateful for her immeasurable contributions to our shared passion. Her memory will be a constant inspiration.
