Frequently Asked Questions

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  • Every design made by us is individually hand-crafted using couture beading techniques. Each bead, crystal, or embellishment is applied by hand and carefully secured. No piece is mass-produced; every garment receives dedicated attention to details and craftsmanship.

  • Sophiatel pieces are handcrafted and often heavily beaded, so production requires time and care.
    Depending on your chosen design, we aim to deliver within either 4–12 weeks based on the complexity of the piece.

    These timeframes exclude weekends and public holidays.
    During sales, promotional periods, or high-demand seasons, production may require additional time due to volume. We aim to update you every step if the way putting your mind at rest.

    Once your garment is ready to ship, we will email you with your tracking details. You can follow your parcel directly via the courier’s website.

  • Each design is hand-embellished using couture fastening techniques designed for durability.
    However, because all beading is done by hand, a minimal amount of bead movement or shedding can naturally occur over time, especially with frequent wear.

    This does not affect the integrity, structure, or beauty of your garment it is simply part of the nature of artisanal craftsmanship.
    To prolong the life of your embellishments, handle your piece gently when dressing, storing, and cleaning.

  • Every Sophiatel piece goes through a multi-step inspection before dispatch. Once the garment is complete, it is re-measured, its embellishments are checked and reinforced, and the silhouette is assessed against your specifications.
    After this, the finished piece is lightly refreshed and recorded on video as part of our documentation process.

    Each garment is sealed with a Ribbon. This ribbon confirms the item has passed our full inspection from every angle.

    Once your order arrives:

    • Please inspect the garment before removing the ribbon

    • Check for any concerns such as loose embellishments, defaults or fabric tears

    • If everything is perfect, remove the ribbon and enjoy your piece

    • If there is an issue, do not cut the ribbon before sending us an email including your order number and several images so we can assist

    Each piece is handcrafted specifically for you, please remember that we do not offer refunds or exchanges as all items we make are made only when you place an order.

  • You will receive an order confirmation. This will include your garment details and delivery address. We recommend reviewing this carefully.

    During production, we will work through your piece step-by-step, and once completed, you will receive a dispatch notification with tracking.

    All pieces are handmade and require the full production period listed on the product page. If you need your order sooner, feel free to contact us. We can explore expedited options, though this may incur an additional fee as it requires prioritising your order.

    This information is for our Made-to-measure designs. For all bespoke orders, please select our bespoke services from our enquiry form.

  • To ensure enough time for crafting your dream dress, we recommend contacting us 6 months in advance for bespoke bridal gowns, while evening and occasional wear can be created in 10-12 weeks or longer depending on design complexity. However, please feel free to get in touch with any last-minute enquiries. We may be able to accommodate or offer rush options, though additional charges may apply for late bookings.

  • Can't make it in person? No problem! We offer virtual consultations to connect with you wherever you are.

  • We create custom quotes based on the complexity of your design and the materials you choose. To ensure a perfect fit for your budget, we offer consultations to discuss your expectations and explore design options. 

  • ABSOLUTELY
    Ready to design your dream dress? Our team is here to help! Tell us about your vision and style, and we'll guide you through the process. Browse our collections and do not hesitate to send your enquiry to info@sophiatel.co.uk to answer any questions you may have.

  • 2-3 fittings to ensure perfect fit is required depending on design complexity.

  • No, we do not modify or alter clothing that we did not design.

  • We recommend you contact us 6 months ahead to begin your bespoke journey to your dream bridal gown.

  • We work diligently to meet all estimated timelines.
    However, rare delays can occur due to:

    • High seasonal demand

    • Complex hand-beading requirements

    • Customs processing

    • Unforeseen global events or courier issues

    If a delay appears likely, we will notify you immediately and provide an updated timeframe.
    We are always available to support you simply email info@sophiatel.co.uk

  • Please email info@sophiatel.com within 24–48 hours.
    After production begins, changes may not be possible due to the made-to-order nature of our garments.

  • If you have a specific date and want it sooner, contact us info@sophaitel.co.uk, We offer an express service.

  • Made to measure means designed exclusively for you. Your piece is crafted to your precise measurements waist, hip, and beyond with full control over every detail of the fit. See our size guide on how to take your measurement.

  • Yes. We can customise:

    • Length

    • Sizing

    • Colour

    • Embellishment density

    Custom requests often require an additional fee and sometimes longer production timeline.
    To enquire, email info@sophiatel.com or send us a message on whatsapp with your measurements and desired adjustments.
    All orders including Custom orders are final sale and non-refundable.

  • Yes. We offer flexible payment arrangements for clients who would like to spread their payments.

    If you’d like to set up a personalised payment plan, you can email us directly or send us a WhatsApp message with your request, and we will create an option that works for you. Please note that all payments must be completed before your garment ships or before final fitting for bespoke orders .

  • All Sophiatel pieces are made-to-order therefore:
    No returns. No exchanges. All sales are final.

    In the rare event of transit damage, refer to the instructions under “How are Sophiatel garments quality assured before they are shipped?” and contact us before removing your ribbon.

  • All embellished and delicate pieces require professional dry cleaning only.
    Do not machine wash, hand wash, or spot clean, as this may damage the beadwork.

    • Use a breathable garment bag

    • Avoid folding heavily embellished areas

    • Store in a cool, dry space away from sunlight

    • Hang structured pieces on padded hangers

    • •Fold softer fabrics gently to reduce stretching.

    Do not iron directly on embellishments.
    Steam from inside the garment on low heat, or allow a professional cleaner to handle pressing for best results.

  • Avoid:

    • Perfume or hairspray directly on fabric

    • Jewellery that may snag

    • Rough surfaces

    • Overloading your wardrobe (pressure can distort beading)

  • How do I request a collaboration with Sophiatel?

    We welcome thoughtful and creative partnership proposals.
    Please email info@sophiatel.co.uk with your ideas and portfolio.

    How can I model for Sophiatel campaigns?

    Send your comp card, measurements, and Instagram handle to info@sophiatel.co.uk

  • All orders are dispatched via Royal Mail Tracked delivery. Complimentary shipping is available on our UK MTM orders over £1,000 (excluding sale items).

    Sophiatel is not responsible for any customs or duty fees. If you are placing an international order, please take this into consideration before purchasing.

    When items are shipped overseas, your parcel may be handled by multiple postal services, which can increase the likelihood of delivery issues.

    Please note that all delivery times are estimates provided by Royal Mail and are not guaranteed. International shipments may experience delays due to the postal systems within each destination country.

    Items marked as delivered but not received: We do not offer refunds or replacements for orders that show as delivered in tracking. For this reason, we strongly recommend having orders sent to a secure home address.

    Sophiatel cannot be held liable for items lost or delayed during transit.

    Once production starts, all sales are final due to the made-to-order nature.