Ordering a Bridal Gown
How far in advance should I purchase my gown?
In 2023, we recommend purchasing your gown at least 10-12 months in advance.
Most Designers in current times due to issues around logistics, will take a minimum 6-10 months for delivery and then you should allow up to 2 months to complete your alterations. We find this option gives Brides lots of flexibility and ensures the process is not rushed or stressful.
We do have express options available if you need a gown sooner, and it is best to talk to your consultant as soon as possible about your requirement. Please note for all express options, extra charges do apply and these charges passed onto us by the Designer to ensure your gown is made sooner. If you choose an express option, please be prepared to receive your gown quite close to your wedding date and we will make appropriate adjustments to your alterations schedule.
Our standard policy is that any gown ordered 6 months before your wedding date will automatically need to pay an express fee.
If you are not wanting to pay an express fee on a gown, we also always have opportunities to purchase a stock gown and these gowns are purchased immediately off the rack and be taken home with you on the same day.
We can usually accommodate most requests, so please let us know what your requirements are and we will do our very best to help you.
How is the sizing of my gown determined?
Once you have purchased your gown, your measurements will be taken. These will then be used to find the best size for you, based on the Designers Standard Measurements Sizing Chart. It is important to note that there may be a difference in sizing between Designers. It is also important to note that it is very common for you to be a different size for each measurement taken (For example; a size 8 bust, a size 6 waist and a size 10 hip).
The standard size closest to your measurements will be then ordered. This will be discussed with you as your order is being finalised and we will help advise you about the best size to order.
We always endeavour to order the closest size to your measurements, at the time of purchase, as it is always our aim to keep your alteration costs to a minimum
As alterations are an additional requirement (and all Bride’s require different adjustments), alterations are charged for as extra. This is a specialist service by experienced dressmakers and they charge for each job based on your requirements. The more alterations you request, the higher the cost of your alterations. Please be aware that each gown also will require different alterations.
As this is a specialist service, we are unable to quote your alterations cost at the time of your dress purchase, and you are required to meet with our dressmakers who can see how your properly sized gown is fitting you and then discuss with you any additional requests you have.
We are able to give you an average amount we recommend budgeting for based on the gown you select and this will be discussed with you at the time of purchase.
When will my gown arrive?
You should expect to receive your gown approximately 10 months from paying your deposit and your gown being ordered (standard delivery time). Your gown in ordered as soon as your deposit has been paid. This will again be discussed with you at the time of purchase. Express options allow gowns to be received 1-2 months faster than standard delivery (Designer dependent).
We give you an estimated delivery date at the time of purchase, which is an estimate only. Delivery is subject to change based on Designer, Freight company change and even the time of the year (Eg; Christmas Holidays, Chinese New Year). We always work to your wedding date and allow suitable time for alterations.
Please note that these times are estimated and are always subject to change given delays currently being experienced with Freight both internationally and domestically and are completely outside of our control.
How can I pay for my gown?
At the time of purchase we require a 50% deposit. Your order will then be placed.
We then will complete a 5 month lay-by of which your monthly payment amount will be written on your lay-by contract. Monthly payments can be made in store or via direct debit or over the phone.
We accept Cash, Direct Deposit (Account details are provided with all orders), Visa & Mastercard payments. We do not accept American Express.
Once your gown has arrived in store, your outstanding balance (if there is one) will need to be paid on collection of your gown and/or before any alterations take place.
All final balances cannot be paid over the phone and must be paid either via direct deposit or in person.
What are the price range of your gowns?
We have gowns in store priced from approximately $1,500 to over $20,000. The majority of our collection is priced from $3000-$8000
Occasionally, when we have a Designer Clearance for Sample Gowns, where gowns can be priced from $500.