Start a bespoke evening gown six to twelve months before your event. A gown from our Evening Couture Collection is made to order in four to six weeks. For anything sooner, call the atelier on +61 2 9922 4193 to talk through your timing. Bespoke gowns have three to five fittings, and you should bring the shoes and underwear you will wear on the night.
When should I start my evening gown?
| Route | Time needed | Fittings |
|---|---|---|
| Bespoke | Six to twelve months | Three to five |
| Evening Couture Collection | Four to six weeks of making, plus a margin | Made to your measurements |
| Ready to wear | Usually quick | Alterations, if needed |
A simpler bespoke design may need less time, but timing is always confirmed at your consultation. Booking as soon as you know your date gives the most choice.
What does a bespoke evening gown timeline look like?
- Consultation. Over champagne or coffee, you talk with Catherine about the event, your style and how you want to feel.
- Sketch and fabric. Catherine hand-draws your design and you choose fabric together. A 50% deposit begins the design.
- Toile. A test version is cut to your measurements in plain fabric, so the shape is right before the real fabric is cut.
- Fittings. Usually three to five as the gown is built and refined on you.
- Finished. We aim to finish two weeks before your event, leaving time to plan hair, jewellery and shoes.
What happens at each fitting?
Every gown is different, but fittings typically follow this pattern:
- First fitting, usually the toile: the overall shape, length, neckline and proportions are checked and adjusted.
- Middle fittings: typically the gown in its real fabric. The fit is refined, and details such as lace placement, beading and the height of a split are set.
- Final fitting: usually the finished gown, with your shoes and underwear, to check length, comfort and movement.
At every fitting, sit, walk, lift your arms and dance a little. A gown should be comfortable for the whole evening, not just for standing still. Our wedding dress fittings guide explains fittings in more detail; the process for evening is the same.
What should I bring to my fittings?
- Your shoes, or ones with the same heel height, so the hem is set correctly.
- Your underwear, including any shapewear or strapless bra, so the bodice fits what you will wear.
- Any jewellery or accessories that affect the neckline or sleeves.
- Photos of ideas, and anyone whose opinion you trust.
- Your event details and any dress code.
What if my event is soon?
If your event is less than six months away, the Evening Couture Collection is made to order in four to six weeks. If it is sooner than four to six weeks, or you would still love a bespoke gown, call the atelier on +61 2 9922 4193 to talk through your timing.
For a comparison of routes, read custom vs ready to wear evening gowns, or for cost, how much a custom evening gown costs. When you are ready, book a consultation or learn about bespoke evening gowns.
