CUSTOM

Design your dream dress with Rachel Walters. Rachel works hard to make the process as fun and easy as possible for each client. Scroll to the end to see examples of past clients' projects. Here's how the design and fitting process works. 

Step 1: Email rachel@rachel-walters.com to set up an appointment. Meet with Rachel at 48 Leonard Street, Belmont Center, or over Zoom if you live remotely. Discuss your event and how you'd like to look and feel on your special day. If you know what you'd like, Rachel will create a sketch for you. If you have some ideas, but are unsure, Rachel's extensive design background will come into play to assist you in forming a full vision, while working with your criteria. During this intake appointment, you can also expect to get measured for fit, and place a half deposit. Prices for custom dresses range from $1200-$2000 for a mother of the bride or groom dress, or $3500 and up for very ornate bridal gowns. Please inquire at rachel@rachel-walters.com for specific price estimates, or call or text Rachel at 804-539-3376. 

Step 2: Rachel will order swatches based on your desired fabric. You will return (if local) to look at fabric swatches and approve your desired textile. If you live remotely, Rachel will mail you swatches. You will choose your fabric, and Rachel will order it for you. 

Step 3: The first fitting. Rachel will make your gown in your selected fabric. Although it is the "real" fabric, this is a sample. Rachel uses the real fabric to ensure that your gown looks, drapes, and fits the same way as your final gown will. In this way, you have the ability to visualize your final gown and make any changes you may want to make. For many clients, this first dress is their final dress. Most clients only need a minor fit alteration, like a hem or a shoulder lift at this stage. Some clients will need a dress remake, if they have changed their mind about a design detail like a neckline shape, or if the fit needs more than a few revisions (rare). 

Step 4: The final fitting. Rachel has made all of the necessary fit and design changes (if any) and you can now take your dress home! Some clients require additional fittings, which is allowed and included in the package pricing, up to three total fittings. Four fittings or more will incur additional charges, up to an extra 100 per fitting. 

Lead time: please allow a minimum of three months to create your custom dress. Rush orders will be considered as Rachel's schedule allows, for an additional $500. Rachel pauses custom work during the months of November and December to focus on holiday sales for her ready-to-wear collection. 

Past clients have loved the experience and have said it has taken a weight off of their busy minds while planning a wedding.