General Questions
Common questions about our custom dress service
What is Build-a-Dress and how does it work?
Build-a-Dress is an AI-powered custom dress design platform. Simply describe your dream dress, and our AI generates high-resolution designs in seconds. Once you're happy with the design, we connect you with professional dressmakers who craft your dress to your exact measurements. The entire process takes 1-2 months from design to delivery.
How much does a custom dress cost?
Our custom dresses start at just $249, significantly less than traditional boutiques which typically charge $1,400-$5,300+. The final price depends on the complexity of your design, fabric choices, and any special embellishments. You'll get a detailed quote before confirming your order.
How long does it take to get my custom dress?
The entire process typically takes 5-7 weeks from order confirmation to delivery. This includes 1-2 weeks for design finalization and measurements, 3-4 weeks for crafting, and 1 week for shipping. This is much faster than traditional dressmakers who often take 9-12 months.
What makes Build-a-Dress different from traditional dressmakers?
Unlike traditional dressmakers, we use AI to instantly generate your design, offer transparent pricing starting at $249, and provide a streamlined online experience. Traditional dressmakers often have limited design options, long wait times (9-12 months), and high markup costs. We connect you directly with skilled dressmakers while handling the entire process digitally.
Custom Wedding Dresses
Everything you need to know about custom wedding dress design
Can I design a custom wedding dress online?
Absolutely! Our AI-powered platform lets you design your dream wedding dress from the comfort of your home. Simply describe your vision - whether it's a classic ballgown, modern minimalist, or bohemian style - and our AI will generate multiple design options for you to choose from.
How much does a custom wedding dress cost compared to off-the-rack?
Custom wedding dresses through Build-a-Dress start at $249, while off-the-rack wedding dresses typically cost $1,400-$5,300+. You get a completely personalized dress designed specifically for you at a fraction of the traditional cost. Plus, you avoid the stress of shopping and can ensure the perfect fit.
What styles of wedding dresses can I create?
You can create any style of wedding dress you can imagine! Our AI can generate designs for ballgowns, A-line dresses, mermaid silhouettes, sheath dresses, tea-length gowns, and more. You can specify details like neckline, sleeve style, train length, fabric type, and embellishments.
How do I get the perfect fit for my wedding dress?
We provide detailed measurement guides and work with you to ensure perfect measurements. Our dressmakers create made-to-measure gowns based on your exact specifications. If any adjustments are needed after delivery, we offer low-cost alterations to ensure your dress fits flawlessly for your special day.
Custom Prom Dresses
Design the perfect prom dress that's uniquely yours
Why choose a custom prom dress over buying off-the-rack?
Custom prom dresses ensure you'll be the only one wearing your design. Off-the-rack dresses often mean seeing other people in the same dress at your event. With custom design, you get a unique dress that perfectly matches your style, fits your body perfectly, and makes you feel confident and special.
What's the typical cost of a custom prom dress?
Custom prom dresses through Build-a-Dress start at $249, which is often comparable to or less than high-end off-the-rack prom dresses that can cost $300-$800+. You get a completely unique, made-to-measure dress at an affordable price point.
How far in advance should I order my custom prom dress?
We recommend ordering your custom prom dress at least 6-8 weeks before your event. This gives us time to perfect your design, take measurements, craft your dress, and handle any necessary alterations. Rush orders may be available for an additional fee.
Can I see my prom dress design before it's made?
Yes! Our AI generates high-resolution images of your dress design before any crafting begins. You can request modifications to the design until you're completely satisfied. Only after you approve the final design do we begin the manufacturing process.
Custom Quinceañera Dresses
Create the perfect quinceañera dress for your special celebration
What makes a custom quinceañera dress special?
A custom quinceañera dress is designed specifically for you and your celebration. It reflects your personality, cultural heritage, and the significance of this milestone. Unlike off-the-rack dresses, your custom gown will be unique and perfectly fitted to your body, making you feel like a true princess on your special day.
Can I incorporate traditional quinceañera elements into my custom design?
Absolutely! Our AI can incorporate traditional elements like ballgown silhouettes, elaborate beading, tulle skirts, and classic colors like white, pink, or your chosen theme color. You can also request specific cultural details or modern twists on traditional designs.
How much should I budget for a custom quinceañera dress?
Custom quinceañera dresses through Build-a-Dress start at $249, significantly less than traditional quinceañera dress shops that often charge $500-$2,000+. You get a completely custom, made-to-measure dress at an affordable price, allowing you to allocate more budget to other celebration elements.
What's the timeline for a custom quinceañera dress?
We recommend ordering your custom quinceañera dress 8-10 weeks before your celebration. This timeline allows for design development, measurements, crafting, and any necessary fittings or adjustments. Rush orders may be available for an additional fee if needed.
Ordering & Process
Understanding our custom dress ordering process
How do I start designing my custom dress?
Simply visit our design page and describe your dream dress in detail. Include style preferences, colors, fabric types, and any special features you want. Our AI will generate multiple design options for you to choose from and modify until perfect.
What measurements do I need to provide?
We'll guide you through taking accurate measurements including bust, waist, hips, length, and any other relevant measurements for your specific dress style. We provide detailed measurement guides and can assist you through video calls if needed.
Can I make changes to my dress after ordering?
Yes! We offer low-cost alterations if adjustments are needed after delivery. Minor alterations like hem length or fit adjustments are included in this service. For major design changes, we may need to create a new dress, which would be a separate order.
What if my dress doesn't fit perfectly?
We're committed to ensuring your dress fits perfectly. If there are any fit issues, we offer low-cost alterations to make necessary adjustments. Our goal is your complete satisfaction, and we'll work with you until your dress is exactly right.
Shipping & Returns
Information about delivery and return policies
Do you ship internationally?
Currently, we only ship within the United States. We're working on expanding our shipping options to include international destinations in the future. Domestic US shipping typically takes 3-5 business days.
What's your return policy for custom dresses?
Since each dress is custom-made to your specifications, we don't offer traditional returns. However, we provide low-cost alterations for fit adjustments and minor alterations. For major issues, we work with you to find a solution that ensures your satisfaction.
How is my dress packaged for shipping?
Your custom dress is carefully packaged in a protective garment bag and sturdy shipping box to ensure it arrives in perfect condition. We use professional packaging materials designed specifically for delicate garments.
Can I track my dress order?
Yes! You'll receive tracking information once your dress ships. You can monitor your order's progress through our platform and receive email updates at key milestones throughout the process.