What is the difference between doing a "gown restyle" and a "custom gown" ?

A gown restyle involves taking a gown that has already been constructed, and changing elements of it to customize it. For example, a sleeveless gown can have sleeves created and added to it, or an A-line gown can be changed into a mermaid fit.

A custom gown involves creating an entirely new gown from scratch. We can still take elements off of an existing gown for it, but the silhouette of a custom gown is created from start to finish based off of your custom measurements.

How do I know if a custom gown is right for me?

If you have already looked and tried on gowns but have found that none of them had ALL the elements of what you are looking for, then a custom gown might be the right choice for you. Typically, the ideal custom gown candidate is able to "visualize" the perfect gown and already has an idea of what would look great on her body type. It is the bride that is pretty certain of what she wants, but just hasn't been able to find it out there.

What type of custom gowns do you make?

We specialize in bridal and special occasion gowns, including evening, bridesmaids, and Mother of the Bride/Groom dresses. We also create custom bridal accessories such as veils, sashes, robes, capes, garters and other ideas you might have to help bring your wedding attire vision to life!

What does it cost to make a custom gown?

Starting price for a custom bridal gown is $2000 and starting pricing for a special occasion gown is $800. The price varies according to style complexity as well as materials being used. Prices are quoted for labor only, as materials to construct the gown will be factored in separately.

How much time is needed for having a custom gown made?

On average, we need a minimum of six months to construct a custom gown. For orders that have more than one gown (i.e. bridesmaid/Mother of the Bride), more time will be necessary.

What does the process look like when I decide to move forward with a custom gown?

When you come for the initial consultation, we start by simply discussing your ideas. We recommend you bring in images of gowns you love, or if you are doing a gown restyle, you can bring the actual gown with you. Fabric swatch colors are shown/discussed, as well as any other applicable gown details. The next appointment will involve signing a contract to move forward as well as making a down payment of 50% of the labor cost (material charges will be separate and due once yardage is determined and agreed upon). Your initial measurements will also be taken at this time. The following appointment will involve sitting down and discussing fabric swatches/trim samples that have been ordered for your gown. A design sketch will be presented if needed.

After this, the fitting process begins. Once an initial draft of the gown is made, a fabric order can be placed. On average, there will need to be 4-8 fittings for a custom gown. We prefer to have the final fit about 2-3 weeks before the wedding to ensure that weight fluctuation is not a factor, but we can get closer to the wedding date if necessary. Finally, upon completion of the order, the remaining balance is paid, the gown is tried on and picked up and the process is complete. You will now have your one-of-a-kind custom gown ready to be worn for your special occasion!