Or start by finding a good tailor and having them make it work from scratch, which may be easier, and which is what I’m thinking of when i suggest affordable bespoke clothing.
Of course I have the advantage of knowing someone who does everything from professional stage costumes to serious religious vestments to SF/fantasy fan costuming, so I know exactly who I’d talk to and have some idea what it would cost me.
I grant that women’s bodies vary more and their styles often require more fitting. Even so…
