A step by step guide to the made-to-measure process
Having looked through this web site, you've decided to place an order. What happens now?
Initial Consultation
This is free of charge with no obligation, or hard sell. Please be prepared for this to take at least a couple of hours. Having clothes made especially for you is a very personal experience. The initial consultation is our chance to get to know one another and to discuss your likes and wants.
We will discuss your choice of fabric, any details (such as embroidery), and share design ideas. These come from consulting my extensive reference collection and your input. This can be anything - a colour, shape, detail, texture, or even a picture that has inspired you. However, whether you have any ideas of what you want or not, I am here to help and guide you. Together we will design your ideal outfit from a wide variety of sources available. A very rough price estimate will be given at the end of the initial consultation which will be followed by a written quote and contract. (see Payment Terms)
Measurements and Patterns
A full set of measurements will be taken either during the initial consultation or at a subsequent meeting. These are then used to make a paper pattern drafted to fit you exclusively, from which the final item of clothing is made.
Samples
Samples are always done when embroidered or beaded decoration is desired. This ensures your design looks as you envisioned it and allows us to develop and embellish our ideas. These samples remain my property.
Fittings
All garments are fitted at least twice to ensure a perfect fit and all fittings are arranged for mutual convenience.
The first fitting may be either a toile or in the actual fabric. A toile is merely a version of your garment made up in either calico or a piece of scrap fabric similar in weight to the 'real' fabric. Major style changes once the toile is complete and fitted may incur an additional cost.
Subsequent fittings depend on the complexity of the design and the outcome of the first fitting, either leading to another toile or to a fitting in the actual fabric. The final fitting will take place when your garment is complete and ready for collection and is just to make sure that everything is exactly as you want it.