Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I get a quote?
  Please fill in an enquiry form and I will get back to you ASAP with a quote.
  For a custom-made garment, the enquiry from is found at the end of the Custom-made page
  For a garment from the Capsule Collection, please find the Order & Client Info form at the end of the Capsule Collection Page

• What is the timeline for having a custom-made garment?
  Orders should be placed well in advance to secure my availability.
  It is highly recommended to finalize designs and secure fabrics early in the year to avoid peak-season rushes.

Depending on the complexity of the design, my schedule and available time provided by the Client, production starts 2 - 4 months prior to the event.
Please refer to these guides for a better idea of the experiences:
Wedding Dress Experience
Matric Dance Experience
Special Occasion Experience 

• Must fabric be provided?
  I am is happy to accompany the Client to my recommended fabric store to assist with choosing the fabric.
  If the fabric is not found at that store, it is up to the Client to source fabric from alternate stores which I will advise on.

I'll source the extras (things like threads, zips etc) which will be included in the deposit.
The purchasing of the fabric is for the Client’s account ie. the transaction is between the Client and the fabric store.

• Can an exact replica be made from a picture?
  Exact replications are not possible.
  I can create a unique design that takes in to account the Client’s figure as well as the available fabrics and supplies using the reference (pictures, videos etc) as an inspiration for the design.
  Clients are to keep in mind that their supplied references may be AI generated which may display items that are not possible to create as AI does not understand all the factors needed to create a real garment.

Clients are also to keep in mind that references may have been digitally edited to make the displayed garment look perfect. Similarly, the garment may have been secured to the model or the model posed in such a way that realistically a garment may not actually behave or look.

• How do fittings work?
  Usually I'll need a minimum of 2-3 fittings (depending on the complexity of the design)
  All fittings will take place in my home studio in Durbanville at a date and time that suits  everyone.
  It is important to me that you feel as comfortable as possible. I understand that fittings are a vulnerable situation and would protect your modesty as much as possible. There is a change area available where you can get in to the garment in private. I do provide a dressing gown if you would like assistance getting in to the garment. This is a option used when the garment is tricky to get in to or is too big for the change area (like a ballgown style dress) but is always available if you feel unsure about how to get in to the garment.
  Please refer to these guides for a better idea of the experiences:

Wedding & Matric Dance Fittings 

Special Occasion Garment Fittings

• Do I need to bring along any special undergarments and shoes to every fitting?

Yes, it would be best to bring these items to each fitting as they will affect the fit of the garment.
In cases where there is a mock-up (Wedding & Matric Dance Dresses) it isn't an issue if the Client doesn't have their shoes yet.

• What undergarments would be recommended?
  I'll happily recommend undergarments based on the design of the garment.
  Top: Depends on the garment.
  If the bodice is a cupped corset, support is built in with padded cups and underwire. Optional push up inserts can be arranged.
  If the bodice is an overbust corset, a strapless bra can be worn to provide support.
  If the back is open or low, a stick on bra can be worn or possibly tape (depending on the neckline in front)
  If the garment has wide straps or sleeves and can cover a regular bra, then no special suppport is required.
  Bottom: Seamless underwear with a higher waist line is best to prevent visible lines.
  Please check that the undies are not too tight or they may create distort the figure (create bulges above/below the underwear)
  Coverage/style is dependent on Client's personal preference (thong, bikini, shorts...)
  Use of shapewear is according to Client's personal preference.

• How do payments work?
  A non-refundable deposit (amount and timeframe stipulated on the invoice) is required before commencing any production.
  The deposit covers necessary extras (items needed over and above Client’s purchased fabric), pattern drafting, initial sewing etc.
  The deposit also secures the Client’s place on my calendar.

The balance of the payment can be paid in increments but must be paid in full before the Final Fitting (usually 2 weeks prior to the event/due date).

Payments preferably to be paid via EFT.