Woman with blonde hair, wearing dark sunglasses and a black top, is looking at her phone while sitting outdoors under beige umbrellas, surrounded by green plants.

How to commission a garment

Woman with elaborate blonde hair styled in a voluminous, teased manner, wearing a patterned purple and green sleeveless dress with a jeweled neckline, standing in a wood-paneled room.
A woman in a colorful dress and bright green thigh-high boots standing on a red-carpeted staircase, holding a cane, with children playing violins in the background.
A woman with blonde hair wearing a large black hat with netting, black earrings, and a black lace shawl over a pink dress, indoors with wooden walls.
A woman dressed in a vibrant, multicolored, patterned dress with a matching shawl, wearing purple gloves and a pearl necklace, holding a cane, standing in front of a wooden staircase and a carved wooden panel.

To discuss your request, contact me directly via telephone, or send me an email. If possible, we can then schedule a time to meet in person.

Q. Do you work with clients outside the UK?

A. Yes, distance isn’t usually an issue!

Q. How do you know what suits me?

A. When we meet, or chat online, I will typically suggest the direction to take. Dressing is an exercise in psychology. Essentially, it becomes a mission of mutual trust. We both want the best possible outcome, from our creative journey.

Q. How many fittings are required?

A. Depends on complexity of design. My model size samples, are sold as is, or with minimum alteration. A new design, starting from scratch, can have an average of 3 fittings, or more if its bespoke bridal.

Q. What is the very first step?

A. After our initial discussion, and you confirm that you wish to go ahead with a commission, we agree a budget. Then, a 50% deposit by bank transfer payment is requested, with the balance of 50%, paid on delivery. This is to protect my intellectual property, The Viewing Room page will give you a guide to pricing for unique pieces. I’m happy to provide a gauge for the various types of work so please do ask!

Q. What happens next?

A. We start discussing the fabric choice, to establish what you suit. You will see for yourself, how the mirror becomes your best gauge!

I prepare hand drawn sketches as part of a detailed storyboard, with your chosen options of fabric combinations.

Q. After I decide on the fabric choice, what’s the next step?

A. I either sent a measurement chart, or ideally, I measure you… be that in Inverness, London, or New York. Everyone is well travelled these days, so we usually work it out! From these measurements, I create a pattern from which I make a cotton toile. This is tried on and modified to fit, before cutting the actual fabric. Then, you watch the garment slowly evolve, stage by stage. Its like moulding a sculpture!

Q. If my ensemble is for a wedding, what about accessories?

A. Built into my bespoke service, is a styling service, and I arrange for bespoke hats, recommend shoe brands, handbags, jewellery, and everything necessary to complete the look. It becomes a unique story, and not predictable, where everything is over co-ordinated!

Q. What about delivery?

A. I like to hand deliver, then I can be assured nothing has been overlooked or left to chance! For me, attention to detail is everything, in order to give it my final stamp of approval.

You, then become the best dressed guest.