When you have decided that you want something custom made from a fashion designer please think before you contact us. As a long time clothing designer I have seen and heard it all from customers over the years. So to help save you from the common pitfalls here is a list of things that annoy US, the designers.

1) So you've found a gorgeous bridal gown/or evening dress from another designer. I'm glad for you, I really am. But the last thing we as a custom work designers want to hear is this: I found this great gown from so and so, I love it, but it's too expensive, can you copy it for me? Truth: Designers HATE copying other people's designs. In fact it's against the law. Also designers hate having people assume that we are CHEAP. If it is expensive from a big label chances are there is a reason (materials, construction etc) do not assume it will be cheap from us just because we are "smaller time" designers. So the big question is how do you really ask us this question without irritating us? Best way to go about it is this: "I've found a gown I really like from so and so, but I want something custom for me, can you design me something SIMILAR to this but with yours and my vision included in it as well". "Similar too" and "Inspired by" are both great keywords to use when talking to us. We have egos too, just as much as the designer you want to rip off would be mad that you are ripping off their gown we are also insulted that you want us to copy someone else's work.

2) There is a difference between DESIGNERS and SEAMSTRESSES. Yes some seamstresses are also designers and some designers are also seamstresses but we hate being treated as a seamstress. Seamstresses are indeed a important vital part of the fashion world. We wouldn't be able to produce our lines without them. Seamstresses however have a very different skill-set and job description than Designers. Common things people ask that confuse me with a seamstress is "I bought this dress from the store, can you alter it for me?" Tailors and alterations shops are for that sort of thing. Designers do not alter other people's designs (well rarely). A designer is going to charge you about three times the amount you will pay at an alterations shop. Most dry cleaners have a tailor on staff. We are not a dry cleaners. Another common thing people ask me pertaining to seamstress work are "I bought this commercial pattern from the local fabric store, can you make it for me". Again that's a job for a seamstress. Designers DESIGN original items and usually make their own patterns.

3) If you order something from a custom designer please realize that while each customer is important, our world does not revolve around YOU and we in fact DO have other clients. It's ok to call/email/stop by etc and check on the progress of your item a few times, but to constantly harass is NOT OK. I've had people email me multiple times in the same day asking about the progress of a gown. We are a business like any other and need to make time to actually WORK. Which brings me to the next thing that often people do not realize...

4) CUSTOM WORK TAKES TIME. So you've put in a order with a designer for say a custom wedding gown. The design process for anything takes some time, for something elaborate even more time. I have seriously had people ask me two days after I have began a project for them when it will be done. Remember when you are working with a designer that we usually do not have a huge factory behind us. Yes you can log onto Old Navy. Com and have your board-shorts in 2 days or less, but the same doesn't go for a hand crafted item from a designer. Also keep this in mind BEFORE you ask us about making you something. I have had people come to be me one week before their proms/weddings/etc and expect that I could whip them up a complicated item right quick.

5) So you have the perfect dream outfit in your head. Please do not expect us to read minds. Before contacting a designer have as many examples as possible of what you want available to show us. Honestly we would rather see a terrible sketch attempt at something than have nothing to go on. How our minds see something and how yours see it's rarely will match. We don't care that you can't draw. You can also find pictures of things similar to what you want or with elements of what you want. Just remember like anything the more research you put into something the better product you will get.

6) Remember that while we'd like to think we can make you look your best that we can not work miracles. A gown is not going to solve a weight problem, or a major flaw, what we can do is make something that helps you look your best and conceal your worst. But we cannot make you look like a size 2 when you are a size 12 or make you as tall as a supermodel when you are 5'1. We can make you FEEL that way with a great garment made to flatter you. Just be realistic in your approach when asking a designer to make something for you, and listen to our advice if we offer advice on what will and what will not look good on you. That's our job.

Mostly to summarize if you use common sense, you and your fashion designer will get along. Just remember to research what you want BEFORE you come to us. And also research a bit about our trade and the times it takes to have things made. While most of us have enough tact to never show irritance to your face, it's always good to know what pushes our buttons BEFORE you open your mouth.

This has been a public service announcement from you friendly neighborhood fashion designer, thanks for listening :)