When you purchase a made-to-order wedding dress, this does not mean you are getting a completely custom dress. Made-to-order instead means that a dress is being made according to a designer’s size chart, at the time you order it. Here’s what happens from the moment you choose your gown to the day it’s ready for pickup at the retailer and beyond.

Step 1: Find Your Dream Dress and Take Measurements

Once you’ve found your dress, the bridal consultant will take your measurements—usually starting with bust, waist, and hips. Your stylist might take extra measurements if required by a particular designer or if you are planning any special customizations that differ from the sample design.

The bridal consultant will then recommend a size based on the designer’s size chart.

Step 2: Pay a Deposit and Place the Order

The boutique will typically require a deposit- usually half of the cost of the dress. Once the deposit is received, the store places your order with the designer.

Step 3: Production Begins

First, the designer takes your order and sends it  to their factory. Next, the factory cuts and sews  your dress based on the original design. Unless other customizations have been ordered, the dress design will be exactly the same as what you saw in the store, but the final product will fit be closer to your appropriate size.

Step 4: Dress is Completed and Shipped

Once your dress is completed, it is inspected by the factory for quality before being shipped to the bridal shop.

When the team at the store receives it, they will inspect it once more to ensure it is accurate to what you ordered. They will then contact you for a pickup appointment.

Step 5: The Pickup

At your pickup appointment, you’ll try on the dress to see how it fits in its standard size.

You’ll likely notice that adjustments are needed—this is completely normal. Your bridal consultant will either guide you on recommended alterations specialists to work with or inform you about their in-house alterations services. Typical alterations you should expect include adjustments to the hem, top, or bottom, depending on your specific measurements and fit preferences.

Step 6: Alterations for the Perfect Fit

Alterations are often the last step before you take your dress home. It may include hemming, creating a bustle for the train, and tweaking the fit of the body. Once the alterations are complete, your gown will fit like it was made specifically for you—because now it is customized!

Made-to-order wedding dresses are the industry norm but not the typical way we are used to shopping. By understanding the process of how YOUR wedding dress gets to you, it can allow for better planning and a smoother trip towards your wedding day.

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Hi, I’m Melissa, the sassy sewing and wedding pro you didn’t know you needed in your life. 

I’m the owner of deMelis Atelier, a top ranked alterations studio located in Connecticut, and the founder of Stitched Collective, a community for sewing professionals. I’m a master seamstress and wedding dress educator as well as an industry leader and trainer… and a lover of spicy mango margaritas.

I use my fashion and sewing knowledge to help brides and wedding pros alike. 

Be sure to check out my latest endeavors and access some of my favorite products too!