Couture Gowns
With my couture service, you can have a unique gown or corset designed and made just for you.
Design
The process starts when we meet to discuss your design ideas. From there, I draw up designs, we choose materials, work out a time line, and I send you a quote.
Create
When it's time to start creating your couture garment, I take all of your measurements, then create a pattern and a toile for your first fitting. Depending on the complexity of the design, you may need multiple toile fittings to get the design and fit just right.
Once the toile fittings are completed, I start to cut and sew the final fabrics. One or more fittings are usually needed during this construction stage, including pinning hems and finalising the fit.
The final stage is hand sewing hems and embellishments, making accessories, and making sure every detail is perfect ready for you to collect.
Price
The price of a couture creation depends on the design and the chosen fabrics. Below are my starting prices for having a couture piece made. If you have a budget, just let me know at the design consultation stage, and we can keep it in mind when designing and choosing fabrics.
Couture gowns - from $2500
Corseted gowns from $3500
Corsets - from $750
Headpieces, veils, and accessories - from $100
Other items - poa
Availability
I am currently fully booked for 2019.
Limited availability January to June 2020
Fully booked July to October 2020
Limited availability November and December 2020
Now taking bookings for 2021
Due to the time consuming nature of couture creations, I only take on a limited number of dresses and corsets per year, therefore it's advisable to book in and pay a deposit to secure my time as far in advance as possible. Work will then start on your design around 8 to 12 weeks before your event.
Other info
Because of the fitting process for couture gowns and corsets, you'll need to be able to visit me at my studio in Canberra, Australia for fittings in person
Everything is made to order to your measurements, so I can create unique designs for any dress size or body type.
A 50% non-refundable deposit is required when ordering your couture garment or accessory. The final 50% is payable on completion. Payment plans are also available and can be discussed at your design consultation.
Everything is handmade by me in my Canberra studio. Be assured that I never outsource the sewing or manufacture of any of my designs and that everything is proudly made in Australia.
Want to know more?
Get in touch if you have any questions, or if you'd like to book a design consultation.
Head over to the lookbooks page to see my couture gowns client gallery and styled photos shoots for inspiration.
Looking for a more budget-friendly option or need something faster?
My customisable dresses, skirts and accessories are my semi-couture alternative to my full couture service. Choose your fabrics and design options, choose your sizing, and have your chosen piece handmade by me and delivered straight to you. There is currently a 4 week turnaround between ordering and posting for this service, not including delivery time.
And if you'd like a fabric, size, or design option that's not listed or need it made and delivered faster? Just message me and ask! Most thing are possible.
Model, hair and makeup - Sarah The Pale Pinup