A step by step guide to the made-to-measure process

Initial Consultation

The intial consultation is free of charge with no obligation or hard sell. Please be prepared for this to last at least a couple of hours. Having clothes made especially for you is a very personal experience. This consultation is our chance to get to know one another and to discuss your likes and wishes.

Bring your ideas, these can be anything - a colour, shape, detail, texture, or a picture that has inspired you.  We will discuss your choice of fabric, any details (such as embroidery), and share design ideas.   I have an extensive reference collection to help clarify the design, and I am here to help and guide you. Together we will design your ideal outfit. After this initial consultation I will need a few days to reasearch fabrics and accessories, and to prepare 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 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 after 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.