The Dress Making Process

This is a great chance to influence the design of the most important dress you will ever wear. Make sure you have the exact style you would like, in the fabrics you dream of, with the all the details to complete the look. If you know what you want, or need help with ideas, this is the ideal opportunity!

Make an appointment to discuss ideas for design and budget. If you have any photographs, sketches or magazines which help pinpoint detail you like, bring them along. We spend as much time as necessary at this very important stage.

A sketch of the finalised design can then be produced, together with fabric samples, and costings.

If you commission a gown, the outline procedure is as follows:-

Purchase well-fitting foundation garments and the right height shoes to wear at the measurement stage and at all further appointments

After many measurements are taken, a pattern, then toile or copy of the dress is produced. This is used to fine-tune the design and fit, and radical alterations can be made if needed.

Once the toile is satisfactory the actual dress is cut and assembled. Many gowns have a hidden internal structure which ensures the most flattering finish on the outside! Hand-stitching is a hallmark of haute couture, used to ensure a fine finish and apply embellishments such as sequins, crystals, beads or flowers.

As many fittings are made as is necessary, including a final check near to the wedding date if possible.