RIP VFG Member Claire aka claireshaeffer

[BlackLotusVintage]

Claire, also known as claireshaeffer on our forums, was a long-time and highly valued member of The Vintage Fashion Guild, joining on August 10, 2006. We are deeply saddened by the news of her passing, and her presence here will be dearly missed.
You can read her obituary at Redenius Funeral Home

"It is with great sadness that I must post that Claire Shaeffer passed unexpectedly on Saturday, January 11th, 2025. She is survived by two sons, two grandchildren and their spouses. With Claire’s passing, her unique sense of style, expertise and authority will be greatly missed. Please recognize the family’s desire for privacy at this time- James Shaeffer"

Claire's contributions to the world of couture sewing were immense and far-reaching. She shared her vast knowledge through articles, videos, and her own YouTube channel.
Claire authored numerous books on couture sewing techniques and designed dozens of couture patterns for Vogue Patterns since 2001.

Claire was renowned for her extensive collection of couture garments, including around 2,500 pieces and 600 Chanel suits. Her insatiable curiosity and dedication to uncovering the secrets of couture garment construction made her a true pioneer in the field. She was always eager to share her discoveries with others, whether through teaching, lecturing, or writing.

Her legacy will continue to inspire and educate future generations of sewists and designers. Claire's passion for couture sewing and her generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Rest in peace, Claire B. Shaeffer. Your contributions to the world of couture will never be forgotten.

A Tribute to Haute Couture Expert and Educator Claire B. Shaeffer - Threads

 

[MagsRags]

I know her family must be grieving her death. I am so sorry for their loss.

I never got to meet Claire IRL but had the pleasure of several virtual encounters during my recent presidency. She also posted here in the forums - public and private - regularly. She was such a lovely person, so smart, and so generous with her knowledge. She will be missed.

 

[poppysvintageclothing]

I am so very sorry to hear the news of Claire's passing. She was such a generous soul and such a talented woman...she will definitely be missed by us here at the VFG and by so many other people that had the pleasure of knowing her.

My deepest condolences to her family and friends.

 

[The Vintage Merchant]

I am shocked and so sorry to hear this, she was so brilliant, and such a sweet and caring member here, and on her fb pages. She will be greatly missed.

 

[denisebrain]

I will always look up to Claire—her curiosity, generosity, and ability to mentor were all remarkable. She gave so much to the VFG and to me in helping me understand fabric.

My heart goes out to her family.

 

[Hattysattic]

So sorry to hear this, and I’m sure her loss will be felt so much in many places, including here. Thoughts are with her loved ones.

 

[dollsntrolls]

We are so lucky to have a treasure trove of her knowledge compiled here in the VFG. I know she made sure to pass on so much of what she knew, and I look forward to continuing to use her writing and research for my own education. Thank you, Claire.

 

[vivavintageclothing]

I am so sorry to hear about Claire's passing. She was very giving of her vast knowledge, and always a pleasure to connect with here, although I never got to meet her in person. She will be greatly missed.

 

[nsweezie]

I am very sorry to hear this- Claire was a gracious and knowledgeable person who was always willing to help and educate.
My deepest sympathies to her family and friends.

 

[furwise]

She was a gifted and giving person filled with a lot of knowledge. Thank you for sharing. My thoughts and condolences to all who knew her. Sad but grateful for the memories that remain.

 

[Ranch Queen Vintage]

I'm deeply sorry for her family, loved ones, and students across the globe.
I'm so grateful for the knowledge she so generously shared in her books, videos and collection.

 

[Rue_de_la_Paix]

Oh no! After I just now stopped crying for 20 minutes, there is such a sense of loss. We all will miss her greatly. She and I met on several occasions at Costume Society Of America events here is California and she was sweet, generous and kind as well as having a vast knowledge which she shared so openly with the world. She gave me her old slide projector as a gift and I treasure it. She leaves a grand legacy and will always be remembered. What everyone has said thus far, I cannot add to further. God Bless you, Claire.

 

[morning-glorious]

I'm very sad to learn this, she was an extraordinary person and a huge part of the VFG. My deepest sympathy to her loved ones!

 

[Circa Vintage Clothing]

Thank you for sharing this sad news. Claire was an extraordinary woman: I was privileged to meet her a few times when she came to Australia, notably for the Ring Cycle opera and I found her to be lovely, kind and generous with sharing her expertise. She was a world expert in her field and greatly respected.

Vale Claire, your legacy is enormous.

Nicole

 

[thespectrum]

I echo what everyone else has said, she was so talented, generous and kind.
My deepest sympathies to her family and friends. Her friends here at VFG will miss her very much.