TOP TIPS

Working with a couture fashion designer can be an exciting and rewarding experience. If you are interested in moving forwards with a Sejal Anujah Shah creation, here are my top tips to get the most out of your experience:

Research and familiarise yourself

• Before working with a couture fashion designer, take the time to research their style, previous collections, and overall aesthetic. Familiarise yourself with their work to understand their design philosophy and creative vision.

Clear communication

• Establish clear and open lines of communication with the couture designer. Discuss your expectations, project requirements, timelines, and any specific details or preferences you may have. Regularly communicate and provide feedback throughout the process to ensure everyone is on the same page. Whatever you are looking for, I am here to help you realise a vision, so prepare all necessary information, including measurements, references, and inspiration images, to streamline the collaboration process. Stay organised, provide timely responses, and be flexible when adjustments or modifications are needed along the way. It’s important for me to know what you are thinking at each stage so don’t be hesitant to voice your thoughts –  show me as much as you can!

Respect their expertise

• Couture fashion designers are masters of their craft. Respect their expertise and trust their judgment when it comes to design decisions. While it's essential to provide your input and ideas, remember that they have a deep understanding of fabrics, construction techniques, and design principles that contribute to the final outcome.

Come with an open mind and be open to collaboration

• Couture designers often appreciate collaborative partnerships. Be open to their suggestions and willing to explore new ideas. They may have unique insights and concepts that can elevate your vision and result in a more exceptional final product. The best creations are born from an open brief where you trust me to elevate your idea. Come with the essentials of what you want (or if you have no idea, that’s fine too, I can help you figure it out!) and we’ll create something unique. This includes fabric, style, embellishment, and/or any extra structural features. Having trust in the creative process is important – visit my website to find out more about this.

Set Realistic Expectations

• Couture fashion is meticulous and time-consuming. Understand that creating a couture garment involves intricate handwork, fittings, and attention to detail. Set realistic expectations regarding timelines, budget, and the overall process.

Budget considerations

• Couture fashion can be expensive due to the high-quality materials and craftsmanship involved. Discuss your budget constraints openly with the designer, and seek their guidance on how to achieve the desired results within your financial limitations.

Involve an exclusive group of people that you trust

• You will have heard of the saying ‘too many cooks’! I recommend my clients select no more than 2 or 3 people whose opinion matters and they trust to attend appointments to support you with their feedback throughout the process.

Be honest with your feelings and feedback

• We are all human and sometimes we just change our minds. My creative process allows for certain ‘checkpoints’ where decisions are made to keep us on track but also to respect my time and costs incurred. Take photos of the design process, fabric samples, and any significant milestones. This documentation can serve as a reference point and help track the evolution of the project. It also allows you to review and reflect on the decisions made, providing a visual record of the progress. Sleeping on any major decisions is an excellent approach. It allows you to gain perspective and ensure that you're making choices that truly resonate with your vision. It helps prevent impulsive decisions and provides an opportunity to revisit the design with fresh eyes the next day. Ultimately, I am here for you, so being open and honest with your feedback is crucial. Couture fashion designers value constructive criticism and appreciate clients who express their thoughts openly. The more you communicate your preferences, concerns, or any changes in direction, the better equipped I will be to adapt and meet your expectations effectively.

Have fun!

• Creating a bespoke garment is one of the most memorable experiences you will ever have and will likely be for a very special event! Enjoy the process, soak it all in, make an ‘event’ of every day you have a fitting – and stay happy and stress-free throughout

Remember, working with a couture fashion designer is an opportunity to create something truly extraordinary. By following these tips and maintaining a collaborative mindset, you can maximise the potential of your partnership and achieve remarkable results.