How to Design a Formal Dress Online

If you have a formal event coming up and want to stand out from everyone, yet when you go shopping, none of the dresses appeal to you, there is a perfect alternative: design your own custom formal dress. By going online to design your dress, you can get an immediate idea of what the dress will look like rather than depending on a designer's paper sketch. Read on for a guide on how to design the formal dress of your dreams online.

Things You'll Need

• Computer

Instructions

1. Visit studio28couture.com or cocomyles.com, or do an Internet search to find other stores where you can design custom dresses online. Many of these websites specialize in a particular type of dress, such as prom dresses, so do research and pick the website that best suits your needs.

2. Generally, a custom dress website will first have you pick out a dress top, or bodice. Depending on the website, there may be fewer or more options, but most likely you will choose among strapless, spaghetti strap, halter or sleeve length.

3. Decide what you want the bottom part of your dress to look like. Choose what length you want your dress (midthigh, knee length, calf length or floor length) and the fit (flared or straight, for example).

4. Pick a color and fabric for your dress. Certain colors may only be available in certain fabrics, so pay careful attention to the description when you select your preference, as some fabrics are much more expensive than others.

5. Carefully measure your bust, waist, hips and inseam. Compare your measurements with the website's size chart and choose the correct dress size for you.

6. Familiarize yourself with the company's return policy and delivery time before you pay for your dress. Once you are satisfied, place your order and wait for your dress to arrive.

Tips & Warnings

• Read online reviews of various websites before choosing which one you will use.

• Give yourself as much time as possible to design your dress before your event, as custom dresses need a longer time to be completed.

Resources

• Studio 28 Couture Made to Order Dresses
• CocoMyles Custom Formal Wear