Made-to-measure

Made-to-measure, what does this term mean? Many good bridal designers offer a made-to-measure (or made-to-order) collection available either at their own shops, or through department stores and bridal boutiques, or both.

You'll choose a dress from the collection which will be available in standard sizes for you to try in the shop. The essential difference between made-to-measure and couture is that the dress will be cut from the nearest pattern size to your measurements at the designer's studio, and then altered to your size, but before the garment is sewn together. There is obviously no toile. Usually you'll require three fittings; the first to take your measurements, the second to try the dress, and if it needs any adjustments you'll return for a final fitting. Those adjustments could be made at the store, or the dress might be sent back to the studio. If you have chosen a more intricate gown an extra fitting might be required before the fine detail is added.

In additition to the design, which from a reputable designer will be tried and tested and will work, you are paying for the personalisation of the service. It is not factory made. A well cut made-to-measure gown will be a good fit and you can be assured that it will be beautifully cut, expertly constructed, and made from high quality silks and fabrics. If you choose a design with embroidery or beading, or with a bodice and boning, much of the detail will also be finished by hand, as will buttons and laces.Many good designers are quite choosy about where their gowns are sold and you'll only find them at the quality department stores and better bridal boutiques.

The danger for the unsuspecting bride-to-be is that anyone who designs dresses is theoretically a designer, but they are not all in the same league. In addition, tweaking a size 38 dress and letting out a seam is not a made-to-measure service, it's a tweak. Ensure that your made-to-measure dress really is made-to-order. Our advice is to go to reputable store or boutique and examine the gowns up close. Look at the fabrics, the cut and the finish of a dress. Check there is no tension at the seams. Are there loose threads and evidence of machine sewn buttons that could pop off under pressure, when for example you are leaning to get out of the car, or are dancing? Does the quality match the price tag? What exactly are you getting? Be absolutely sure it's made-to-order and not a gown altered when it arrives in the store.