She was great - we spent about 45 minutes just bashing ideas around. I have no idea if the pricing is reasonable. but it sounded like it to me. I know a couple of you have done this so maybe you can chime in if you have thoughts. For a jacket, skirt and pants lined and made to order, she would charge $500. That would not include the fabric, which I have to buy myself, but includes all the fixings (zippers, facing, etc.)

She had some fairly strong suggestions, but they were all in line wih my thoughts, i.e., no fussy details, curved shoulders, welt pockets, trouser leg, etc. She suggested a slight A-line skirt with a wide waistband would be more versatile for me, and I think I agree, both in terms of my body type and my need to stride around comfortably. She said she leaves room to let out seams as needed and does that work for free later (!).

For fabric she suggested a wool crepe or gabardine in a dark charcoal grey, which she thought was most versatile.

She showed me some of her work and told me it would be three weeks with two fittings before finalizing everything. I told her I'd go fabric shopping and bring in some pictures. Thinking maybe DH can buy the fabric as my birthday present.

So that's the update for now. Let me know if you get bored of this little saga!