Question 1

How far in advance do I need to contact you or order a bespoke commission and what do I have to pay in advance?

Accepted Answer

I currently operate a 3 month order book meaning that from the date of order and fabric being bought or provided to me, it is an average of 3 months from start to completion including fitting (s) where appropriate. If multiple fittings and postal service is relied on for a remote (as opposed to in person) order then this can 3 months can quickly increase.
 
If you have a special occasion you want a commission for, I would recommend you consult with me at least 6 months in advance in order that we can source the right material, patterns and if I can fit it into my schedule.
 
I take a non refundable deposit of the cost of the material at the start of the order process and entering your order in to my production schedule.

Question 2

How much is the average bespoke commission?

Accepted Answer

This varies greatly depending on material used, size required and complexity of the garment in question. For a rough idea, please take a look at my services page.
It's hard to give a conclusive price off the cuff without knowing a multitude of factors including fabric costst, construction time, notions and other overheads. 
I charge a scandalously low hourly rate given my 30 years plus sewing experience so don't be afraid to ask but please, don't try to barter me down because my prices are already much lower than my competitors.

Question 3

Can I bring you my own material?

Accepted Answer

You are welcome to bring to me material that you want to be used for a bespoke garment. Not every fabric is suitable for every garment, so I will discuss options with you; it may be that we decide up front not to proceed if the fabric is unsuitable. The effectiveness of the finished garment is in large part down to marrying the right fabric to the right design.

Question 4

Will you be able to copy a ballgown / film costume / special occasion / wedding dress for me?

Accepted Answer

No I'm afraid sadly I won't.
Firstly, as a former lawyer I am NOT about to get myself embroiled in copyright infringement not least because those famous people wearing said outfit or the Bridal Couture house offering up the dream wedding dress, or Hollywood Film studio and designers ALL have far deeper pockets and better legal skills than I do ;-) 
I can do something "Inspired by" in some cases but please don't ask me to copy something unless i have direct access to the original, it's design is out of copyright AND there is no chance of breaking any laws.
Secondly, I have many experienced and specialist contacts across the entertainment and events industries who are far better placed than me to enter in to costuming and corsetry required of such creations, and would be happy to recommend them wholeheartedly.

Question 5

What are your payment methods?

Accepted Answer

I prefer Paypal for both your and my protection but also welcome payment by bank transfer on conclusion if you are happy with this and we have established a working history.

Question 6

Do you do refunds?

Accepted Answer

Sadly, due to the nature of bespoke made to measure commissions, I cannot give refunds.

Reinvintaged

Vintage dressmaker

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance do I need to contact you or order a bespoke commission and what do I have to pay in advance?

How much is the average bespoke commission?

Can I bring you my own material?

Will you be able to copy a ballgown / film costume / special occasion / wedding dress for me?

What are your payment methods?

Do you do refunds?

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