Dominique Ansari Custom Couture & Bridal Designer

Usually I start by asking what the client wants in regards to style and when they need the garment and what occasion it is for. I usually ask for photo references as to design style, so I can an ideal of what they want and what style they like the most. I then create sketches based upon their preference, and present them via consultation in person. Once we decided upon the design, style, fabric choice, color, and price, I start working on the design. I usually make a sample for fittings if locally based and the client will try on the sample. Once we get the fit perfected, I cut out the real fabric and complete the garment for final fitting. I walk the client through the process step by step and update them throughout the entire process.

I have a BFA in fashion design from the Art Insitute of Hollywood in California. I lived in Milan, Italy for a few months during a study abroad when I attended fashion school there and attended Milan Fashion week in 2007. I have owned by brand since 2009 and have been featured in several publications including a recent feature in Vogue UK and Glamour UK for my Fall 2016 showcase in Vancouver, B.C. I have showcased my collection in San Francisco, Los Angeles, New Orleans, and Vancouver. My line has been sold in boutiques in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami. I have extensive pattern making skills, couture sewing skills, draping skills, and swimwear sewing skills. I am proficient in hand sewing, beading detailed work, and tailoring

My custom garments start at around $250 and above, from a simple styled garment to something more lavish, which could start around $650 and up. Every client is treated on an individual basis, so price varies depending on the style, time to make from start to finish, size, fabric, and delivery deadline.

I always had a love for art and creative things. I love to paint when I'm not sewing. I got started after I worked for a company as an assistant designer after I graduated school, and decided it was not for me; I wanted to own a business and design for a living instead of helping someone else to the same, so I started with a simple line of ready to wear jersey knit dresses. It was a success and since then I have expanded to doing swimwear, couture, and bridal.

I have worked with all types of clients. Anywhere from standard size clients, to plus size, to bridal clients, Dance companies, buyers from boutiques, and custom made clients that want something that is one of a kind.

My most recent project was from the couture bridal gown that I made for my showcase in Vancouver fashion week. It had a lot of detailed work on the bodice; lots of beading. The tulle skirt attached at the waist had a long train and was 40 yards. The lace trim on the bottom was tea dyed to make it ivory and each piece was individually sewn onto the 40 yard skirt. I worked on it off and on during the duration of the time I worked on the collection of 17 looks, but had I worked on it straight, it probably would have taken me a month or so to complete. Custom garments take anywhere from a week to 3 months to complete depending on the detail.

Quality is super important and expertise. You want someone that is experienced, personable, loves what they do, and can get the job done in the time frame that you request. Our service provides all this and more. I make everything from scratch to finish myself, so you know you are getting a personal, quality service, and a one of a kind garment, not a factory made garment that is sewn by underpaid workers that a million other clients will own.

When requesting a custom garment, you should have an ideal as to what style you are looking to have made, your max budget, and your delivery due date. Photo references as to your style preferences also help when trying to get a feel for your style and the look you are trying to achieve. The type of ocassion you will be going to also gives insight into what sketches I would present to you.