The Pros and Cons of Buying Bespoke Lingerie
Do you struggle to find the perfect bra fit? A style you like that comes in your size? A particular design you’d love to buy but no one’s making? Then perhaps you’ve considered a bespoke lingerie set.
‘Bespoke’ is another way of saying custom-made. Although some lingerie brands offer a made-to-measure service which is technically a bespoke garment, generally, when we talk about bespoke lingerie we mean something that is made to your measurements and a unique design. A truly one-of-a-kind creation.
Certainly, it’s not for everyone. But to some it’s the perfect solution.
To help you make your mind up, here are some pros and cons of ordering bespoke lingerie:
Pro: You get exactly what you want
Basically, this is the whole reason to buy bespoke. You can have the bra or lingerie set of your dreams! And in your size too! Whether you want a simple, lacy bra in a 32B or a sparkling rainbow one in a 40G, there’s a designer out there who can make it for you. You’re only limited by your imagination. Well, and your budget.
Con: The price tag
It goes without saying that bespoke lingerie is more expensive than buying something that’s pre-made. Materials pricing is a part of that, because things like elastics cost a lot more per metre when you’re only buying a tiny quantity to make one set.
Mostly though, it’s the time involved. First, the designer will work with you via email, phone or in person to plan the design. Then they’ll draft a new sewing pattern based on your exact measurements. Next, they may even make a toile, a quickly-sewn version of the garment in plain fabric to check the fit. Finally, they’ll sew the final thing – and clothing takes longer to make when you’re going garment by garment rather than whipping up ten identical items at the same time.
Related: Ask A Bra Fitter: Here’s How To Have The Best Bra Fitting
Pro: It’s something you’ll treasure
There’s something special about knowing that a garment you own is the only one of its kind in the whole world. Often beautifully crafted too, luxury bespoke lingerie can become a treasured heirloom to pass down one day. Or at least make you smile for years to come.
Some brides even turn to the bespoke process to repurpose their wedding gown after the big day. Maybe you won’t wear the dress ever again, but if it becomes a bra set, you can put it on whenever you want to!
Con: The wait time
As mentioned above, creating bespoke lingerie time is time-intensive. It’s a far cry from walking into a boutique and walking back out thirty minutes later with a bag of bras.
If you are ordering bespoke lingerie, be prepared for a lengthy wait. You need to be okay with being patient. And if it’s for a particular occasion, be sure to start contacting designers well in advance – I’m talking months, not weeks.
Should I buy bespoke lingerie?
If your issue is simply bra fit, this is a very expensive route to go down to find a better bra. It’s an option of course, but you may well find that a good bra fitter can help you find an off-the-rack design that solves whatever fit problems you’re having. And even if you don’t have much luck, a seamstress may still be able to modify an off-the-rack bra to fit you better. It will cost you a whole lot less than having a custom bra made from scratch.
But if you can afford it, buying a bespoke lingerie set can be a wonderful idea for a special occasion or boudoir photo shoot. If aesthetics are your top priority, it opens up a whole world of beautiful new possibilities!
Related: The True Cost Of Buying Cheap Lingerie
We Highly Recommend
Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.
Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.
If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.
Happy bra shopping!
