FAQ

We welcome you to book an appointment with us to come in and discuss all your ideas with our head designer, Cristina Tridente.

She will go through styles together, have a look at any inspiration images you may have, talk about fabrics, shapes and styles to work out what you will be most confident and comfortable in. You will be asked lots of questions about your big event to ensure the fabrics chosen work well for their intended environment and that the outfit captures your personality, wants and needs.

Cristina will sketch up some options together with you and will show you fabric options or research further options for your following appointment.

The process is very collaborative (and fun)! Cristina often compares it to a ‘Build-A-Bear’ workshop but with dresses!

After we have locked in your chosen design and fabrics, you will be sent an official ‘CLM Process’ pack that will provide you with upcoming information for your appointments. After having an appointment to take your measurements, we will create a first draft (toilè) crafted in calico (cotton fabric) and get you in for a fitting. We will make adjustments from here and discuss any queries you may have before we start on your real dress. The toilé is a very important part of the process- it will allow you to see visually how your outfit will looks before we cut the real thing. From here, we chip away at the process over the next few months in the lead up to your big day (or event) until your outfit is complete. We aim for you to have your garment pressed and ready to wear about a week before your event (*subject to change depending on final alterations).

Please ensure you have the correct underwear (including shapewear if you are wearing them) and bra ready for the first toilé fitting (and please bring these to all fittings). It is imperative bring these with you to ensure the fit is correct (and consistent) every fitting. Should you wish to not wear a bra, please discuss this with us in your measurement appointment and we will go through other options with you. We would prefer that that you do not have makeup or artificial tans during these fittings as staining can cause permanent damage to your garment. We will require you to have your shoes about half way through the process (fitting #3 onwards)

This will completely depend on how complex your outfit is and the overall style, fabrication and craftsmanship. Expect to have anywhere between 4-8 fittings to complete your outfit!

Absolutely!

We welcome you to bring a couple of close people with you should you wish to have another opinion! The maximum amount of guests you can bring with you is 4 to ensure a harmonious, intimate appointment with our head designer.

All appointments have exclusivity of the store. Please note-no photos are allowed to be taken in-store.

As soon as possible!

In our peak periods January to April, October to early December, we are often booked out a year in advance so it's best to get in as soon as you know your date. Even if you do not know what exact design you are after (but have decided that you would like us to create something special for you) we can organise a generic deposit (which will secure your date for you) but will give you more time to think on the design and fabrics.

No! We welcome you to book a complimentary appointment to have a chat with Cristina to see how we can bring your vision to life! We will often organise a secondary longer appointment to look through fabrics (especially if you are looking to book us for a wedding dress) which will incur a small fee (that is redeemable should you place an order with us).

Absolutely, we have a few options we use to work with clients remotely starting with a Skype consultation. Please get in touch to find out more information!

Our bridal gowns generally start at $4500.00 and go up from there. It is helpful if you have a budget in mind for your dress so we can discuss what we can do for you in terms of design, craftsmanship and fabric choices.