Bespoke FAQs

How does the bespoke experience work?
After initial enquiry, the bespoke experience involves an exciting initial consultation, design consultation with fabric swatches to choose from. Once design is confirmed, deposit is taken and agreements are signed. We can then take your measurements to estimate fabric quantity needed, fabric sourcing takes place if swatches are not desired. Kaya then drapes your design from scratch. The next stage is creating patterns and a toile (mock up in cheaper cloth) of your unique measurements and design, slight tweaks and design decisions are made on toile and you are able to visualise your design take shape, once fit is perfected, you will have several fittings in your real garment in selected fabric. You will be apart of the process from start to finish.

How much notice do I need to give?
It is strongly adviced to make contact as soon as possinle to avoid disappointment. Depending on the event and detail required to your garment, it is advised to enquire at least 6 months for bridal and groomsmen, at least 12-16 weeks for special occasions/prom/flower girl etc.

Are the initial consultations free?
Initial phone consultations are free and non-obligatory. Should you wish to book a design consultation following this, the non-refundable design consultation charge is £50.

What can I expect from my appointment?
You will be welcomed warmly in a friendly environment, the design consultation is informal and nothing to worry about. This is an exciting appointment where you can get to know Kaya, her background, experience and see examples of her work. You will discuss your design ideas and Kaya will make important notes, sketch as you speak and show you fabric swatches to gain extra inspiration. The process is explained in great detail and Kaya will go through any questions you may have- this usually takes 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Do you make copies?
It is possible to make copies, however Kaya does not replicate existing designs which are still sold by the designer and it is illegal. It is strongly encouraged if you really like the original to purchase from the original source. Kaya will positively encourage you to seek inspiration and pick out parts, details you like to create a new and unique design to you.

Can I pick my own fabrics or buy the fabric myself?
Yes, with bespoke you have the bonus of being able to pick the fabrics you like with professional knowledge and advice on the fabric and suitability of fabrics for your design, however it is strongly encouraged to pick fabrics in house. You may provisionally check fabric suitabilty with Kaya and purchase in excess of the exact quantity required.

Do you provide one to one, personal fabric sourcing?
Yes, this is charged at an hourly rate and you are welcome to come with me on request if you don’t like the fabrics provided in the swatch books I have.

Do you offer the bespoke service for children?
Yes, bespoke is for all and is warmly welcomed.

Can you make matching accessories?
Yes, if enough notice is given and there is enough fabric available, or possibility to be reorded.

Can you come to me for fittings?
In some few circumstances, Kaya can come to those within the local Essex postcodes if there is mobility issues or disabilities which make it difficult for you to get to me, however this does depend on prior work comittments agreed.

What if I can’t make my appointment?
Please let Kaya know as soon as possible if you need to change or canel an appointment by TELEPHONE only. Kaya will do her best to be reasoable in all cases. Missed appointments and cancellations with less than 2 hours notice, or on 3 occasions may be charged for at her hourly rate.

Can you work to my budget?
Kaya will do her best to make a design possible within your budget which includes her hourly rate, production costs and fabric costs. If this is not possible, or exceeds your budget Kaya will let you know as soon as possible.

Do you have a refund policy?
As this is made to your measurements and is unique to you, so they are not refundable. However, you will be heavily involved with the whole experience and are provided with the design and fabric samples along the process so there will be no surprises!

Do you offer advice on accessories?
Yes! You are encouraged to bring along accessories and pieces you wish to match to your design.

How long will it take to make my comisson?
This heavily varies depending on the style of garment you’ve chosen and how intricate the design is. Surprisingly, because everything is made in the UK, Kaya can turn designs around within a few months, but generally you should expect to wait around 12-16 weeks for suits, mother of the bride, prom etc. and between six and nine months for bridal. Alongside of Bespoke Kaya provides specialist alterations so it is crucial to book in early to avoid disappointment. Again, it is crucial to enquire as soon as possible, recommended for bridal at least a year, no less than 6 months notice.

What if i’m dieting / pregnant or my weight fluctuates?
This can be accounted for with advanced notice, though ideally your target weight should be reached before production starts. The final fitting is normally 10-14 days before the event to ensure a perfect finish.
If you lose more weight or gain after we have started, Garments can be altered to fit, within reason, as we go along. However if the change is more than 2 inches (a whole dress size) in either direction it is not guaranteed the garment would be as perfect as if made to fit your original measurments, though I will always do my best. In regards to pregnancy, Please let Kaya know in advanace and fittings will be organised accordingly to account for changes.

Do I need to bring anything with me?
Please bring yourself, if you have these-inspirational pctures, magazines, photos, pinterest boards, moodboards, shoes, accessories and a rough idea of what shapewear you plan to wear.

How much can I expect to pay?
This solely depends on the garment you’d like,along with finishings and quality of fabrics. Please enquire directly.

How many fittings are needed?
Usually after the consultations and measurments are taken there is 3-4 fittings to complete the design and development of you garment design. If any changes are made resulting in extra cutting, an additional fitting would be needed to ensure you are happy to proceed to the next stage. A further fitting is required once the shell (real fabric) of your garment is ready to check the fit.

Can you disguise (or emphasise) what i’m self conscious (or proud) of (scars, lumps/bumps, tattoos, big/small hips, broad/petite shoulders etc.)?
Yes, with bespoke, the beauty is that you can work with Kaya to create a design and add features or minimise features to make you feel your most comfortable and confident self.