The Dornink Process
Purchasing a dress from Dornink is a unique experience. Here are answers to some common questions:
A: Yes, we do. Click
here to download our sizing and measurement chart.
A: Custom designed dresses begin with a consultation, during which we discuss the garment design and fabric options. We then take measurements and prepare a muslin (cotton version) of the garment. The muslin dress ensures that the design is as envisioned by you and the designer and allows for changes to be made before cutting the final piece.
A: Dornink custom makes all garments in-house, therefore we can be flexible on the time line. However, we begin the design process with most brides 4-6 months in advance. Bridesmaids and mother of the bride gowns require about 2-4 months to complete. If your timeline is shorter, please send an email or give us a call so we can discuss your situation specifically, info@dornink.com, 515.255.7528.
A: Dornink can create a cocktail gown from our collection in about a week with in-house fabric. If the color you want isn’t in stock, the turn around time is about 2 weeks for our styles. A custom designed cocktail dress can take 3-4 weeks depending on the complexity of the design and fabric.
A: Yes, we can customize all our styles to best fit and flatter each client. This is the advantage of having a dress custom made. The price of the dress may vary depending on the severity of the customization.
A: All Dornink designs can be made in a variety of fabrics ranging from polyesters to fine silks. This allows our clients a wide range of price points on all our styles. Traditional wedding gowns start at $1,200. Destination or alternative wedding gowns start at $700. Dornink cocktail / bridesmaid dresses are priced either as “retail” or “custom”. Retail dresses are made to our standard measurements (see sizing chart) and custom dresses are made to fit, ie alterations are included. Our cocktail / bridesmaids dresses are also offered in many fabrications. Retail bridesmaid dresses start at $175 and custom start at $200. Please call to set up an appointment to discuss the many options on fabrication and price.
A: No, you can pay as you go. All garments must be paid in full before leaving Dornink.
A: Yes, we do require a deposit to begin production on all garments. All deposits are nonrefundable. We require a $500 deposit on all wedding gowns, a $200 on mother of the bride garments, and a $100 deposit on cocktail / bridesmaid dresses
A: No. All sales are final on custom made garments.
A: We work with silks, cottons, linens, wools and poly blends. We have samples of many fabrics in many colors.
A: Of course. During your consultation we will discuss how to make the picture look great on your figure.
A: Yes, re-making a dress works just like our custom design.
A: Yes, we do regular alterations on almost all women’s apparel. We do wedding gown alterations as well. Please call for an appointment.
A: Yes, we do ask that you make an appointment. This ensures that we can devote the necessary time to each client and project.
A: Yes, we do ask that you make an appointment so that we can assist you in the style and fit as well as the customization of each gown.
A: no, we do not rent wedding dresses or carry Tuxedos.