Consultation
So how does it all work? Well, to begin with, we suggest you come into the shop for an initial chat about what you would like to have made.
It goes without saying that whatever we make you will fit you perfectly but we believe that there is much more to design than that. Every one of our clients has individual hopes and needs for their wardrobe and we listen carefully to their thoughts as well as making suggestions that we think will complement their ideas.
We design for the body in front of us but we also bear in mind when and where the particular garment is going to be worn. If you are attending a wedding at York Minster we will take that into consideration whereas if you are going to a ceremony in the Caribbean that will certainly influence our designs. Perhaps your husband has always wished you would wear stronger colours or your children think that it’s time to make your wardrobe more contemporary? Most importantly of all, your clothes are a reflection of you as a person and our aim is to let that shine through. All of these factors are crucial in helping us to create the best and most unique design for you.
Within 48 hours of this consultation, you will receive designs, a written description and a quote in the post. This is done free-of-charge and there is no obligation on your part at all.
Measurements
Once the designs have been developed to your liking we then measure you. Unlike many of our competitors, we do not use standard size blocks and convert them. At Antonia Pugh-Thomas we work for every shape and size and we make every single one of our clients their own block and their own patterns.
The workroom then prepares a toile of your garment. This mock-up is done in cotton and allows you to see your design on your body and to make design changes as well as ensure the fit is perfect.
Another important point that sets us apart from other couturiers is that all our clothes are made in our workrooms on the Fulham Road. We never use outworkers as every garment is a one-off and the production team discusses the development of each commission on a regular basis. Keeping everything in one place also means that your garments or the fabric can never be damaged in transition.
Fabrics
We offer a wide selection of plain silks, wools and cottons for our clients to choose from.
Alternatively we take our clients fabric shopping to select something original and exciting for their particular outfit.
The third option is for us to use a fabric that is supplied by our client: over the years we have worked with beautiful silks bought back from the Far East, antique heirlooms that we have transformed into something contemporary and fabulous tweeds that have been transported south of the Borders.
Flexibility
As well as designing and making beautiful clothes at Antonia Pugh-Thomas, there are two other factors that are crucial to our clients’ wellbeing and our success. We understand the need for an appointment at a time to suit you and so offer appointments six days a week. Secondly, we observe a strict code of client confidentiality so that what goes on in the shop, stays in the shop.
We are proud of our repeat business rate of 75% and the strong and intimate relationships that we have formed with so many of our clients over the years. We hope that we shall have the opportunity of working for you in the near future.
