I need help picking out the right sewing machine for my Sewing Machines Parts and Sales in Los Angeles

Hi, I just found this sub and like I said, I need some help. My wife has been expressing interest in picking up sewing, and I’d like to get her a machine for her birthday. She would be most likely using it for costumes/ Ren faire outfits.

However, she told me not to buy one because 1. They’re expensive and 2. Apparently the newer ones aren’t as good or reliable as the older ones. So, I’m trying to circumvent her concerns by getting a reasonably priced, simple, yet sturdy machine.

I don’t know the first thing about them, could anyone point me in the right direction?

Edit: she does have some experience sewing, but not a lot. Most of it was at church.