Eight to six months out
Commission now. This is when fabric can be sourced without air freight, when the pattern can be cut without pressure, and when you still have room to change the silhouette entirely after seeing the toile.
Five to four months out
Design is locked and the toile is fitted. Bridesmaids and mothers should be measured in this window so the whole party moves as one consignment. Buy your wedding shoes now — hem length cannot be finalised without them.
Three to two months out
First and second fittings in the real fabric. Stop changing the design here; changes past this point cost time rather than money. Underwear must be final — a different bra changes the bodice fit measurably.
The last month
Final fitting, press, box. Learn the bustle with whoever will be doing it on the day. Do not begin any dramatic fitness or dietary change in this window — we can take a gown in at the last minute, but letting one out is a different matter.
If you're late
Made-to-measure is possible at four months, alterations at six weeks, and there are gowns we can build in ten weeks if the design cooperates. Ask before you assume you've missed it — the honest answer takes one message.
