- 1.) Should my bridesmaids be involved in the dress selection process?
- 2.) What can I expect at my appointment?
- 3.) How do I go about keeping my bridesmaids on schedule and organized?
- 4.) I outfit all my bridesmaids in different style dresses?
- 5.) What is the difference between empire, natural and A-line and how do I determine who is best for each silhouette?
- 6.) Should all the dresses in my bridal party reflect the same style as my gown?
- 7.) Is it okay to mix dresses within my bridal party?
- 8.) Is dress length important, or can it vary from girl to girl?
- 9.) I've decided on a black tie wedding, can my attendants wear knee length dresses?
- 10.) When it comes to color, which comes first the flowers or the dress?
- 11.) Do you recommend one color for all my bridesmaids or one color palette?
- 12.) Can I mix and match my dress and trim colors or should they be the same?
- 13.) Skin tones vary within my bridal party, what's the best way to compliment everyone?
- 14.) When it comes to a fall/winter wedding, what hues are in keeping with the season?
- 15.) What color shoes are recommended for pastel and bold colored bridesmaid's dresses?
- 16.) Is dyeing shoes passé?
- 17.) Do you offer accessories for men?
- 18.) Do you need my measurements for sizing?
- 19.) If I am between sizes what do you recommend?
- 20.) How tall do I need to be to require extra length on my dress?
- 21.) Are there specific styles that accommodate pregnant bridesmaids best?
- 22.) One of my attendants is pregnant, how should she go about ordering?
- 23.) Can a strapless dress flatter a large busted woman?
- 24.) Who is eligible for your Sample Dress Program?
- 25.) Where do I place my order?
- 26.) When should I place my order?
- 27.) Do you accept rush orders?
- 28.) What are the benefits of having all the dresses shipped to one location?
- 29.) How do I track my order/ check the status?
- 1.) Should my bridesmaids be involved in the dress selection process?
- While it seems like a wonderful idea to involve your attendants in the initial selection, it can make for a chaotic and counter productive outing. I recommend that a bride come to the first appointment by herself, which allows her to make choices that best reflect the wedding and her personal style. Bringing one close family member or friend who can offer an objective opinion and moral support can be of help if the bride isn't quite sure what she wants. Deciding the color and dress length are crucial decisions which the bride should make without the input of her bridesmaids. Allowing them to choose a style that best suits their body type is a nice way to keep them involved. Once the basics are set in order the bridesmaids can venture to the showroom alone or with the bride in tow.
- 2.) What can I expect at my appointment?
- Our showroom is by appointment only in order to ensure each client receives our full attention and the best customer service. You will be greeted by friendly and professional sales people. Our highly knowledgeable sales team will walk you through the selection and ordering process. At the end of your appointment you will be provided with all the information you need to move forward, should you decide to place an order with us.
- 3.) How do I go about keeping my bridesmaids on schedule and organized?
- The first step to keeping bridesmaids on track is to put the details in writing, that way it's clear exactly what they are to purchase and what is expected of them. Giving your attendants the length, style, and color of the dress is crucial, however the order date is the most important piece of information that you need to provide them with. Allowing a two week cushion that only you know about will give you some peace of mind and ensure that everything gets done if a bridesmaid runs behind schedule. Fabric swatches and photos are also a great way for your girls to obtain the necessities like shoes and accessories before they have the dress in hand. The best form of keeping in touch may vary within the group. Geographic location plays a big part in determining which way works the best. Take into account how you normally correspond with each girl. Although 'in person' is ideal, phone and email may be more realistic options.
- 4.) Can I outfit all my bridesmaids in different style dresses?
- Thankfully the days of cookie cutter bridesmaids have passed! There is no need for all the attendants to dress exactly alike, however the color palette is best selected by the bride. Indecision and delays are two possible outcomes from allowing your girls to choose their own colors; it may also disturb the flow of your design. Giving your attendants the freedom to choose the style of their dress will allow them to feel comfortable and happy on your special day which will most certainly be reflected in your wedding photographs.
- 5.) What is the difference between empire, natural and A-line and how do I determine who is best for each silhouette?
- Finding the right dress to compliment your bridesmaids perfectly is no easy task which is why we offer three different silhouettes in our Classics Collection suited to flatter a variety of figures. These three styles offer a selection of necklines and waist lines that each bridesmaid can choose to flatter her best. Empire is our most universal style and flatters just about everyone because it allows for extra room in the waist and hip area. Empire waist is also a good choice for new mothers or pregnant women because it is not constricting in the tummy area. Natural waist flatters those with a narrow waist and is generously cut in the hip area. A-line dresses flatter a wide range of body types, and really work well if some extra room is needed in the waist and hip area.
- 6.) Should all the dresses in my bridal party reflect the same style as my gown?
- While it's not vital for your attendants to be dressed similar to you, following the theme of the wedding is fundamental. Taking into account your personal taste and the level of formality of the event is important. If you choose to wear a formal ball gown, having your girls wear something just as formal is necessary. More brides are heading in less formal directions these days, which lends itself to cotton or gingham dresses perhaps. It's all about consistency, so that everything looks like it belongs together.
- 7.) Is it okay to mix dresses within my bridal party?
- Mixing up these styles can be a wonderful way to bring some flair and fun into the design of your bridal party. With this decision comes the possibility of having the bridal party in complimentary colors instead of a single color. The only aspect of the party's attire that should always be consistent is the length of the dresses or skirts (for example: all knee, tea, or full length).
- 8.) Is dress length important, or can it vary from girl to girl?
- Dress length should be the same for all your attendants. This is the one aspect of the dress that you should remain firm on; there has to be something to unify the entire bridal party. Allowing each girl to pick her own style is terrific, but you should determine the length.
- 9.) I've decided on a black tie wedding, can my attendants wear knee length dresses?
- Absolutely! Knee length dresses can be quite formal and modern if your bridesmaids are polished and properly accessorized. The overall look and feel of the details are what set the tone of the wedding, knee length dresses won't affect this at all.
- 10.) When it comes to color, which comes first the flowers or the dress?
- This is really a personal decision. However, choosing the color palette for the entire wedding should come first. This way everything will coordinate. Once you've made those choices, figure out which detail seems more important to you. If you have always envisioned a particular flower at your wedding, start there. On the other hand if you are more concerned with meeting the needs of your bridesmaids then go in that direction first. Just keep in mind that both items should compliment the palette of the entire wedding.
- 11.) Do you recommend one color for all my bridesmaids or one color palette?
- This is truly a personal choice. A monochromatic look is elegant, classic and always timeless. It keeps the bridal party uniform and allows for bursts of color elsewhere, i.e. flower bouquets or other accoutrements. However, having one color of varying hues for your bridal party creates interest and compliments the bride beautifully. When trying to flatter bridesmaids of different skin tones this is a lovely option, allowing each bridesmaid to select the color that flatters her best.
- 12.) Can I mix and match my dress and trim colors or should they be the same?
- When the trim matches the color of the dress the overall look is modern and chic. It elongates the body and adds a subtle accent to the dress. However, a trim in a different color is a charming way to highlight the style of the dress while adding interest. This can add an element of unity within your bridal party.
- 13.) Skin tones vary within my bridal party, what's the best way to compliment everyone?
- Contrast is always the key when it comes to this issue. Women with paler skin typically look their best in bolder and brighter colors. Pastels can wash out someone with fair skin, making these colors difficult to wear. Women with darker skin tones can wear just about any color from pastel to bold. Remember though that choosing a color similar to ones skin tone can wash anyone out.
- 14.) When it comes to a fall/winter wedding, what hues are in keeping with the season?
- Great question, but unfortunately one without a definitive answer. Most people tend to lean towards lighter colors for spring and summer, and darker hues in the colder months of the year. Orange, red, cranberry, bright pinks, gold, muted yellows, and muted greens are all wonderful ways to tie in the magnificent colors of autumn. Winter invokes a holiday feel, so reds become an obvious selection. However don't count out the idea of ivory, chocolate and black. If you really want things to shimmer and sparkle just like the icy season think silver, champagne, and pale blue.
- 15.) What color shoes are recommended for pastel and bold colored bridesmaid's dresses?
- Shoes can make or break the dress. The most important idea here is that the shoe continues the line and flow of the dress. Never put a black or brown shoe with a pastel gown; it will ruin the effect. Your best option is to go with complimentary colors for your shoes; the tints and shades don't need to be exact, as long as they flatter one another. Neutral shoes such as silver, gold or bronze can be a great alternative as well. They tend to visually elongate the legs, are easy to find and can add a great touch to an ensemble of almost any color, both pastel and bold.
- 16.) Is dyeing shoes passé?
- Yes, dyeing shoes is passé. Shoes should be complimentary to the dress not a perfect match. There are two options for shoes that would suit any color dress. One option is to pick a shoe color that is in the same tonal range as the dress. This way the shoes are an accent rather than a spectacle. The second option is a neutral color shoe such as silver, gold, or bronze which will elongate the look of the leg and allow the dress to stand out on its own without leading your eye downward.
- 17.) Do you offer accessories for men?
- Having the groom and his groomsmen accessorize with our coordinating fabrics can add style and unity to the bridal party. We offer neckties, bowties, cummerbunds, and pocket squares for men. They are available in all of our fabrics except our embroidered and pintucked fabrics. Accessory orders will be shipped approximately three weeks from the date of your order. If you are ordering a necktie or bowtie for a ring bearer, please include the measurement around his neck and from neck to waist to achieve a perfect fit.
- 18.) Do you need my measurements for sizing?
- If you are not able to visit our showroom in NY to try on dresses, then we recommend having measurements taken and selecting your size from our size charts. It is very important to print out our measuring instructions and follow them closely either on your own or by a tailor. Be sure to select your size from the size chart corresponding to the dresses you will be ordering. If you have any questions regarding selecting a size, please telephone us at 212 219 2223, we would be happy to assist you.
- 19.) If I am between sizes what do you recommend?
- If you are falling between sizes, it is better to select the larger size because it is a lot easier to take in a garment then to let it out.
- 20.) How tall do I need to be to require extra length on my dress?
- When deciding between full or extra length, it is important to consider your outer seam measurement. To determine your outer seam you should measure from your waistline to your heel following the contour of the side of your body (barefoot). Once you have this measurement please refer to our hemline details located on our measurements page, to better help you determine if you require extra length. We recommend also keeping in mind what shoes you will be wearing with the dress.
- 21.) Are there specific styles that accommodate pregnant bridesmaids best?
- Women are choosing to get married later in life these days, so having a pregnant attendant can be quite common. The most important point to remember is that when your friend is ordering her dress she must take into account how far along she will be at the time of the event. Three different options lend themselves to accommodating these circumstances. While I wouldn't necessarily recommend you take this course of action, simply ordering the same dress as everyone else, just in a larger size, can be one way to handle this dilemma; typically anyone over 5 months along should steer clear of this method! Another option is to order a maternity bridesmaids dress in the same color and fabric as the other dresses. This way works the best because the type of dress is specifically designed to flatter a pregnant physique. Finally having a dress custom made by a local seamstress in the brides chosen fabric can work well. Having the dress tailored to her exact measurements can make for the most flattering and comfortable selection. This last choice takes the guesswork out of trying to accommodate a changing shape.
- 22.) One of my attendants is pregnant, how should she go about ordering?
- First, the bridesmaid should determine what option works best for her based upon how far along she will be at the time of the event (as described above). If she opts for our maternity dress or simply orders the same dress as the other attendants in a larger size, she should submit her order form along with the other bridesmaids Ñ just omitting her size and making a note on her order form that she will be submitting her size eight weeks before the wedding. Then, eight weeks before the wedding, the bridesmaid should contact us with her size for the wedding. Should a bridesmaid learn she is pregnant after she has placed her order, she should contact us as soon as possible to determine what option works best.
- 23.) Can a strapless dress flatter a large busted woman?
- Strapless dresses flatter every figure type, no matter the bust size. What's important to remember is every woman's personal comfort zone when it comes to clothing. More conservative women might feel too exposed in a strapless dress, which is why allowing your girls to pick the style that best suits them is often the best route to take. The one important thing to consider when going strapless, regardless of cup size, is a good strapless foundation. A quality strapless bra is a must; it allows the dress to lay better on the body, and adds support which results in good posture throughout the event.
- 24.) Who is eligible for your Sample Dress Program?
- If you are a bride who is planning on ordering through our New York showroom, but do not live near any of our locations you are eligible for our sample dress program! Please note that we limit our sample dress program to that one style of dress you have loved on our website but are dying to see in person per bridal party.
- 25.) Where do I place my order?
- We require that all dresses within a bridal party be ordered from the same location. Whether the order is placed through our showroom in New York or through one of our retailers, it enables us to better coordinate and monitor the orders. As a practical matter, ordering from one location allows the bride to obtain information about her entire bridal party through one simple phone call.
- 26.) When should I place my order?
- We recommend that orders be placed 14 weeks before your wedding and then we ship the dresses four weeks before the wedding. This allows us enough time for production and your attendants enough time for shipping and any necessary alterations. If for some reason, you are not able to order 14 weeks in advance please call us and we will try our best to work with you.
- 27.) Do you accept rush orders?
- We understand that there are last minute decisions when planning for any event and because of this we accept rush orders. Our standard production time is 10 weeks from the date of order. We recommend that orders be placed 14 weeks before the event to ensure fabric availability and time for shipping and alterations. For orders produced within 6-8 weeks there is a $25 per ensemble rush charge. For orders produced within 5 weeks $35, 4 weeks $50, 3 weeks $60, 2 weeks $75 and 1 week $100 per ensemble. Please allow time for shipping in addition to the abovementioned production time. We cannot guarantee fabric availability for rush orders so please telephone prior to ordering to confirm availability.
- 28.) What are the benefits of having all the dresses shipped to one location?
- Having all of the dresses shipped to one location is more cost effective than shipping each dress individually. If a box contains more than one dress the shipping rate is $7.50 per dress. If there are five or more dresses in one box the shipping is a flat rate of $35.00. By comparison, to ship each dress individually it costs $15.00 per dress.
- 29.) How do I track my order/ check the status?
- Once your order is ready to ship, you will receive an email via Federal Express with an attached tracking number so that you may track your package. You may also call or email our showroom anytime to check the status of your order.
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