During this period, the loose robe, the standard garb of the medieval period was shortened and tightened. It kept on changing in style as it was cut, pieced, and sewn together to bring into prominence the contours of the human form.



We have now moved into the age of ready-made dresses. Big multinational corporations are rolling out fashionable clothing by the hundreds of thousands. Few of us can afford exclusive haute couture.

We generally have to make do with standardized apparel. The problem is when you try on the dress which looks just smashing draped on the mannequin standing in the show window, doesn't seem to be made for you when you tried it. So what do you do then? One option is to still buy the dress you want and get it properly altered to give you the perfect fit.

But, for anyone looking for that personal attention and individuality in what they wear, custom tailoring is the best option. Have your tailor style a dress for you according to your needs and preferences but before you do that - you must decide what exactly you want. If you are not clear with your ideas, you might end up with a piece of clothing that perhaps looks great on its own but doesn't quite suit your looks.

Following are some must-knows for the customers:

&bullKnow your tailor first: His reputation in the market of tailoring dresses or suits must be impeccable and he must be competent enough to stitch together a garment according to your needs. The best option is to go to websites which have search option to locate tailor in your town.

&bullKnow your fabric: Follow the rule "All that glitters is not gold." Find out about the weave, in case of knitted cloth, as a tighter weave will give you a clearer picture. Best idea would be to take someone along who knows about fabrics.

&bullBe sure about the measurements: If you are particular about how your dress should fit you (for example, how much the neck should drop, how the waistline should fit snugly, and so on), then instruct the tailor accordingly because he will act as per your directions. Make him aware as to what kind of fitting you want. Remember fitting can make or mar the look, so take care.

&bullDecide on the style according to your personal taste, but make an effort to inquire whether it will suit your body type or not. Remember he is the expert, not you, so do not ignore his advice.

&bullWhen the dress is ready, check out every minute thing. Don't be reluctant to pinpoint if you think something is wrong or not as per your guidelines. Final fitting is what should bring a smile on your face.

There have been tremendous innovations in recent past in fashion and the art of dress tailoring and readymade apparel has taken the world by storm. But custom tailoring is still, and likely to remain so, an art.

For instance, many women opt for getting their wedding gown tailored, rather than picking a ready one off the shelf. A nicely tailored wedding gown further enhances the beauty of the radiant bride on her D-day.