Here are answers to common questions I receive. If your question is not covered here or on
the Order Page, feel free to email me.
Q: How come the price you quoted me is higher than the price listed on the website?
Q: How come your prices have gone up recently?
A: First, it's important to note that the prices listed on this website are estimates only. The design and fabric options you choose may result in significantly higher pricing than the base estimates I list on the site. Also, be aware that recent fluctuations in the fabric and notions market may mean higher prices in general, even on basic design orders.
Q: Are your designs exact replicas?
A: NO. My offerings are inspired by film costumes and real vintage pieces, but they are no means exact matches. Many of my creations - particularly the higher-priced deluxe versions - come very close, but they are, I repeat, by no means precise copies.
Q: How long does it take?
A: This depends upon what design you choose, what my schedule looks like at the time of ordering, and your due date. We'll determine a timeline at the time of your inquiry. You can wait anywhere from 4 weeks to a year depending upon the above factors.
Q: What's the difference between a custom order and an established design?
A: Established designs are those ensembles specifically offered in my movie-inspired section, while a custom order is a special design ordered to particular customer specifications. Custom orders are usually unique creations based on the client's imagination, ensembles seen in films, or on real antique garments. However, sometimes even established designs will become custom orders if the customer requests fabric, color, or style changes. Bear this in mind when ordering!
Q: Do you have a factory of workers?
A: No. All garments are made by me, Tracie L. Arnold. This is the reason for the production times can be lengthy.
Q: Why do these garments cost so much?
A: All garments are custom made to fit your exact measurements. They are made using couture techniques and are a real finished garment when completed, not a "costume." I only use premium fabrics, trims and embellishments, and all garments are hand made by me. They are not mass-produced in a factory. Also, the time it takes to make each of these garments can be very time consuming. So, you are not only paying for the materials but also the labor.
Q: Do you pre-clean your garments before shipping out?
A: Usually, no. Cleaning the garment is up to the client when they receive it. Occasionally a garment may get machine oil or a smudge on it from handling; if that occurs, I do clean the garment, but that's the exception to the rule. The garments are made from fabric that comes straight from the factory, so it should come to you clean and free of dirt or debris. However, I cannot guarantee there will not be factory treatments in or on the fabric. I check all fabrics before using them, but it is possible for defects to get by me. You may find defects in the fabric which are beyond my control; this is especially true of natural fabrics like silk, cotton, leather, etc. You may also find sizing in or on your fabric which is something the factories do to the fabric to help maintain the hand and help keep it clean. This is not something I remove or have cleaned before I use it, so you must be prepared to possibly have your garment cleaned when you receive it if these treatments will make you uncomfortable.
Q: What if I need alterations?
A: I will adjust the garment once free of charge as long as it is not a major alternation due to you providing inaccurate measurements etc... but you are responsible for all shipping costs involved in the adjustment. If the garment requires more than a quick adjustment due to inaccurate measurements, excessive weight loss or weight gain or you decide to make any changes to the design outside of the normal quoted garment then those alterations are to be paid for and will be quoted based upon the changes you want or need made.
Q: What if I need to cancel my order?
A: If you have to cancel your order for any reason, you forfeit your deposit for time invested and materials already purchased for your project. This is not negotiable.
Q: What if I need my garment in less than 8 weeks?
A: I offer rush order service for an additional fee of 20% of the original purchase price for regular garments and 30% for beaded garments. Note that "rush" timelines for beaded garments are longer than for regular orders.
Q: What if I want to supply my own materials?
A: You are welcome to supply any and all materials for your project. A credit of 10% off the purchase price will be credited to you if you choose to supply your own materials. Be sure we've discussed your material needs before you go out and buy fabric, however; I'll tell you how much of everything you'll need to get.
Q: Why don't you have garments ready to purchase right away?
A: I do not stock any garments as everything is made to order from scratch based upon your exact measurements.
Q: Will you be offering any ready made clothing in the future?
A: Yes. Stay tuned for more information.