My custom-sized dress was made too small
I had hired a professional seamstress to take the measurements before I ordered my custom-size dress. When I submitted them to ieie, there was a question on the measurement form: "Did you leave finger space in the measurements for movement and comfort?" The seamstress entered this reply: "No, measurements are exact body size. No ease added. Please add no more than 1 inch ease (maximum) for bodice."
When the dress arrived, I could fit into it, but only by exhaling completely first. On closer examination and after communicating with Wendy at ieie, we found that the dress had been made with little to *no* ease added, meaning that the dress was constructed to be the exact same size as me (no room for breathing).
At first, Wendy said that my problem was a normal one; even custom-size dresses need some final alterations for the perfect fit. But after consulting with the local seamstress who had helped with my measurements, I concluded that making a structured garment like a wedding dress *exactly* the same size as the person is not correct dress-making procedure. The tailors at the company should have adjusted the numbers to achieve a *correct* fit, which might have still needed alteration for a *perfect* fit.
When I relayed this to Wendy, she agreed to give me a partial refund which helps to cover the cost of the alterations which the local seamstress is completing for me. After all the communication, receiving the refund was a great help to my wedding budget and enabled me to update this review to a more favorable one! Thank you, Wendy!
Going forward, it would help provide clarity if ieie would change their form to say: "Be sure to add ___ to [all?] [some?] your measurements to allow for movement and comfort." Or, if they leave it as a Yes or No question, then they should adjust for the correct amount on the numbers when a client has sent exact body measurements. As a lay person (not a seamstress), I would find it easier to submit the exact numbers rather than trying to decide how much to add to what numbers...so maybe the second option should be how it goes...?
Also, ieie only communicates via email, though you can also leave a voicemail. Considering the communication is regarding a very expensive, very important (and sometimes custom-sized or customized) dress, I was surprised that there wasn't an option to talk with anyone about questions or options for customizing, etc. I understand that it's better for record-keeping, but it would be reassuring to brides to be able to discuss possibilities or at least follow up on the phone to be sure the company understands what you want, or has received your email, etc. Just an observation :)
My dress is absolutely lovely, though! I can't wait to wear it in 5 weeks.