The Process

1 - Consult
Creating the look for each bride is where my passion really lies. At our initial consultation, I'll review your ideas, then combine 50% your style, 20% considerations for figure, 20% your wedding vision/theme, and a just a *sprinkle* of my style.  You can bring inspiration images if you like.  If not provided at our consultation, I'll review your ideas with my production team and have an estimate within 48 hours.  By request, we can provide an estimate for both budget-friendly materials (ie poly duchess satin) as well as luxury materials (silk satin, luxury laces).  Keep in mind that our custom process eliminates the need and cost for alterations!

2 - (Optional) Confirm with a Detailed Fashion Illustration
Currently included with Haute Custom.  After 8-30-14, a $75 fee will apply for this art.
With your ideas from our consultation, I follow up with a detailed fashion illustration rendered to your likeness, so that you can get a real grasp of your design with your face and figure.











3 - Order
Once you are happy with the details of your design, we will meet to take your measurements.  DO NOT PANIC; modifications can still be made to your sizing through the next step.  Bride puts down a production deposit.  You may receive status updates; we are glad to provide them upon request while your gown is in production.

4 - Fit
A mock-up version of your design is made in muslin.  Any design details or sizing adjustments will be made at this point.  (Sometimes a followup to this step is necessary.)

5 - Tweak
The next fitting will be to try on your actual bridal gown!  Any final needs for adjustments will be noted, then it's time to...

6 - Pick up
You may opt to try on your gown if changes were made since your last fitting.  Make sure all of your accessories are perfect for your walk down the...

7 - Aisle!
Listen for the "ooh"s and "ahhhh"s when the church doors swing open!

8 - Brag
Get featured in our Haute Custom Brides Gallery!  Submit your images and photographer's information with a little word about how your dream dress fit into your big day.


How long does it take to receive my order?

Delivery times may vary per style. We ask for the same turnaround time as bridal boutiques, 6-8 months when possible, BUT because we manufacture locally, we have never had to turn down a client due to a quickly approaching date!  Expedited/rush orders may be subject to a fee.  We recommend you begin early, as we currently limit ourselves to three brides per  wedding month.  We never want to miss the opportunity to create an incredibly inspired design.  If you are considering losing weight, budgeting, etc, please...still contact us early!  We may schedule a consultation right away, but if our availability will allow, wait awhile to measure.  Payment plans are also available.



Ok.  I'm excited.  Let's talk pricing.

Good question!  Pricing can vary greatly depending on your design details like fabrication, patterning complexity, and embellishment. 

Damsel White Label Bridal -
Available online or to shop by appointment at our retailers or flagship studio.
Ranging $800-1500 plus optional Wild Card customizations (Add beading, lace, sleeves, more...)
Budget brides - also consider one of our fabulous, customizable Damsel Maids styles in white or ivory for a fashion-forward dress under $500. 

Damsel Maids - mostly $180-399 with large party discounts available.  Custom bridesmaids design available only for parties of 5+; inquire for details.

Haute Custom Design -
2016 base rate: $2999
(Usually under $7000)
Haute Custom is an intimate process including consultation with our designer, illustration, a mock-dress for test fit, and final gown fittings. Embellishment, fabric upgrades, and complexity of construction are variables that will effect your estimate. 
We create a custom vision for you considering your venue, personality, body type, and style.  Considering the benefits custom fit and our personal customer service, you will appreciate our excellent value.  We offer estimates in the most luxurious laces and embellishments as well as high-quality, budget-friendly alternative fabrics, allowing you to choose where you prefer to prioritize value.

NEW!  Atelier To Go -
2016 base rate: $1499
(Usually under $4000)
Custom Design ordered in a standard size and length.  Rather than our multi-fitting process, you'll complete the fitting tweaks with a tailor.  (We have a preferred list for your convenience.) 



I have an idea that I don't see on your site.

Terrific!  As our favorite service is offering unique custom gowns, the possibilities are limitless.  Let's visit and talk about your ideas. 

To illustrate the possibilities, we invite you to view our embellishment, lace, and fabrics catalogs:

Please, go Pin crazy!  We can reference this, and your other ideas, at our consultation.

































Do I need to be in Houston to order?

We have two ways clients can order a dress from Damsel White Label. Firstly, if they can meet with us, we can offer our full Haute Custom service, with all consultations and fittings included in the fixed price.  Many clients travel up from as far as New Orleans and Dallas for their fittings.

For out of town brides, our ‘Atelier To Go’ service allows us to create a made-to-measure dress by producing a gown made to measurements you provide from a trusted tailor in your town. These gowns will require alterations by a tailor in your area once received. 



Do you have a brick and mortar salon or retail store?
Our studio is open to clients for consultations.  You can also check our list of premiere bridal salons retailing Damsel White Label. 



Do you accept returns?
As is customary with bridal, formal, special occasion and custom apparel, we maintain a "All Sales Final" policy. We make only one exception to this rule; an even exchange may be given for manufactured defects only.   All merchandise is inspected prior to delivery.  In this rare occasion, the client would be responsible for returning the dress within 2 days of receiving the gown. Prompt return is of utmost importance so we can correct the issue as soon as possible. Standard delivery times may apply. Once you have obtained a return authorization from us, you have 5 business days to return the merchandise which must be in brand new condition. Merchandise that is not returned in the condition it was sent will not be returnable and will be billed at full purchase price. All returned packages must have a return authorization number on them.   Exchanges/Refunds must be requested within 2 days of receiving gown.  An RA or return authorization # is required.  No returns are accepted without the RA #.  All returns must be unworn, unaltered with original hangtags intact.  Items must not have any tears, smells, or stains.  Natalie Harris Design reserves the right to approve or refuse any item returned that does not meet the requirements above. Further policies detailed in Custom Design Agreement provided at consultation.

I placed an order; can I cancel it?
All orders are typically processed within 24 hours of receipt. Once you place an order, an automated receipt and confirmation will be sent by e-mail to confirm the order. Once an order is submitted for production it cannot be cancelled, as our manufacturing partner has begun processing your request and typically does not accept returns.  Natalie begins sourcing materials immediately when an order is placed, and if materials for your order have been purchased, your order may not be cancelled.

Do you do alterations?
For gowns purchased from the collection, we prefer that you are present with a specialist in your area to make sure that your dress is a perfect fit.  As part of our custom bridal services, we do offer the option to have your dress custom sized.  We do not alter gowns purchased elsewhere.

However, due to popular requests, we do offer Heirloom Redesign services.  Bring Mom, Grandma, or Sister's gown in, and we'll discuss how we can either use it physically (if condition permits) or at least as a point of inspiration.  Check out Michelle's awesome Heirloom Redesign project.
Please note:  We are a design company, not just a tailor.  This means that our Heirloom Redesign projects get the expertise and attention of our Haute Custom brides, and the service is priced accordingly.  Great care is taken to ensure the integrity of the heirloom materials, matching them with new supplemental materials if needed, and creating a custom design with a sentimental touch.  Expect this service to range from $800 to $1500 if we can use the heirloom gown as a base.  Starting a new pattern, adding embellishments, and other factors may increase an estimate.


Will you notify me when my order is placed and when my order is shipped?
Yes, you will email for any order placed and also when your order is shipped.   Please make sure you provide the correct email address when you place your order.  To prevent these notifications from getting caught in a spam filter, add info@damselwhitelabel.com to your address book.

Why is Damsel White Label the best option for custom design?

You don't have to understand everything there is to know about bridal design.  You just need to know that we will listen to you.  We're here for you with enthusiasm and expertise.  That means guiding you through fabric selection, never sending you into a fabric store to overpay and blindly purchase an item you may know nothing about! 

We know that too many choices can be overwhelming, but also that if you get a specific idea in mind, your options can be very limited!  Imagine having an fashion and bridal industry expert at your fingertips to guide you toward the best possible wedding gown for you.

Damsel White Label Haute Custom brides benefit from an evaluation of body type and corresponding style suggestions.  Unlike our competition, we manufacture all bridal gowns here in Houston but have incredible capability for embellishment, broad fabric options, and a passion for infusing your personality into your iconic look.

Your Frequently Asked Questions

Why Damsel White Label?
    Direct Customer Service
    Luxury-caliber Design Options
About the Process
    Consultation
    Illustration
    Toile Fittings (Mock gown)
    Final fittings
How long do orders take?
    Rush Availability
Pricing
Possibilities
    Embellishment
    Prints, Laces, Fabrics, Colors
But I'm not in metro Houston!  Is that a problem?
Do you have a brick and mortar store?
Order Policies
Alterations vs. Custom Sizing
    Heirloom Redesign