Meet the family historian in Diss designing bespoke clothing with a vintage twist

An ex-film stylist has united her passions for history and sewing to offer tailor-made vintage clothing in Diss.

Catherine Upton-Browning moved into her new Grade-II listed home in Mere Street a year ago, along with partner Steve Walls.

She decided the ground floor would make the perfect studio-cum-shop after a lengthy renovation process. Youbie Yarns opened its doors last month.

“It’s really taken off,” said Ms Upton-Browning.

“People can simply come and chat, swap ideas, and visit the workshop instead of visiting a regular shop.

“I use fabric which inspire me to create bespoke and individual clothing.”

The shop specialises in made-to-order vintage clothing for women and designer outfits for children.

Ms Upton-Browning studied in Belgium and worked as a stylist for commercials and films in the Netherlands, before returning to the United Kingdom to raise a family.

She made the jump to working in education in Attlebridge, before taking on the building which used to house LJ Chapmans jewellers. She is also a family historian and runs a business alongside her new creative pursuit.

“The place was mostly going to be a base for my family research business, Family History Finders, but the studio has really captured people’s attention. It’s a break from researching archives.

“All clothes are one-offs, it’s very unique and it fills a gap in the market in Diss. It’s making things between the couture and the costume. This is a sideline which has just blossomed in the town.”

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