GENERAL
What does PETAR specialise in?
PETAR is a London atelier creating couture, bridal, occasionwear and limited edition drops. Couture and bridal commissions are individually designed and made in the Chelsea atelier, while Limited Editions are produced in small numbers and made to order.
Where is PETAR based?
PETAR is based in a private atelier in Chelsea, London, and works by appointment.
Do you work with both men and women?
Yes. PETAR creates garments for anyone looking for an individually designed and considered piece, with the design developed around the person wearing it.
COUTURE & BESPOKE
What can I commission from PETAR?
A commission can take many forms, from an understated evening dress to a more elaborate couture gown or a tailored occasion piece. The design is developed around the person, the occasion and the desired direction.
Is every garment individually designed?
Yes. Couture and bespoke garments are developed individually through consultation, drawing, draping and fittings. Existing patterns are not simply adapted for the client.
Can I choose my own fabric?
Yes. Fabrics are selected as part of the design process according to the desired colour, texture, movement and character of the garment. Clients are welcome to bring ideas or references, which can be explored together.
How many fittings are required?
A minimum of two fittings is required for bespoke commissions. Additional fittings may be needed depending on the complexity of the design and the fit of the garment.
How long does a couture or bespoke commission take?
Bespoke garments typically require approximately six to eight weeks from the confirmed order and deposit. This is an indicative timeframe and may vary according to the complexity of the garment, fabric availability and fitting schedule.
For garments required for a particular occasion, we recommend allowing sufficient time for the full process and any unforeseen adjustments.
BRIDAL
Can PETAR create any style of wedding dress?
Yes. There is no prescribed PETAR bridal style. A wedding in London or in the countryside, a grand celebration or something quietly understated — the design can take any direction.
Whatever the vision, every gown carries the PETAR approach to cut, proportion and line.
How does the bridal process begin?
Every bridal commission begins with a private consultation at the Chelsea atelier. We discuss the wedding, the setting, your ideas and the way you would like the dress to feel and move.
The design then develops through drawing, draping, toile and fittings.
What is a toile?
A toile is a calico mock-up of the design, made before the garment is cut in the final fabric. It allows the proportions, fit and movement to be assessed on the body and refined before the final garment is made.
Is the wedding dress made by hand?
A significant part of the finishing is completed by hand. Hand sewing and detailed finishing are used wherever they contribute to the character and quality of the gown.
How far in advance should I commission my wedding dress?
We recommend beginning the process well in advance of the wedding date. Bespoke garments typically require approximately six to eight weeks, but bridal commissions can require additional time depending on the design, fittings and occasion.
OCCASIONWEAR
Does PETAR create evening and occasionwear?
Yes. PETAR creates bespoke eveningwear and occasionwear for a wide range of settings, from formal and black-tie events to more understated occasions.
The same individual approach to design, cut and making applies to every commission.
Do you create mother of the bride or mother of the groom dresses?
Yes. These commissions are developed individually around the person, the occasion and the setting, with particular attention to proportion, comfort and the overall character of the garment.
THE MAKING
Where are PETAR garments made?
Couture, bridal and bespoke garments are designed, cut and made in the PETAR atelier in Chelsea, London.
What does the making process involve?
Following the consultation and design stage, a toile is made in calico before the final fabric is cut. The garment is then refined through fittings before being constructed and finished in the atelier.
Much of the finishing is completed by hand.
COMMISSIONING
How do I book a consultation?
Consultations are by appointment. Please get in touch with the atelier to discuss your requirements and arrange a private consultation.
Is a deposit required?
Yes. A 50% deposit is required to confirm a couture, bespoke or bridal commission and begin the design process. The remaining balance is payable before collection or dispatch.
Full payment is required in advance for overseas made-to-order garments.
Can I make changes once the commission has begun?
Design changes or additional work requested after the order has been confirmed can affect the cost and completion time. Any changes are discussed and agreed before additional work is undertaken.
Do you work with international clients?
Yes. International clients are welcome. Bespoke and couture commissions require in-person fittings at the Chelsea atelier. Made-to-order garments are available internationally in standard UK sizes.
For overseas made-to-order garments, full payment is required in advance. Delivery costs are added to the invoice, and any applicable customs duties, import taxes or other charges in the destination country are the responsibility of the client.
Can I return a bespoke garment?
Bespoke and made-to-order garments are created to individual specifications and cannot be returned or refunded unless there is a demonstrable manufacturing fault. Full details are set out in the PETAR Terms & Conditions.
What if I have a specific deadline?
Please mention your required date when making your enquiry. While every effort is made to accommodate important occasions, completion dates are indicative and sufficient time should always be allowed for fittings, adjustments and unforeseen circumstances.
LIMITED EDITIONS
Are Limited Editions bespoke?
No. Limited Editions are designed as small, defined runs and are offered in standard UK sizes. Each piece is individually cut and constructed to order in the PETAR atelier.
How do I order a Limited Edition?
Orders are placed directly with the atelier. Please get in touch with your desired size and we will confirm availability and provide the relevant payment details.
How long does a Limited Edition take?
Limited Edition pieces are made to order and typically take up to two weeks to make, with additional time required for delivery.
For full ordering, delivery and returns information, please see the Limited Editions page.
For all enquiries, appointments and commissions, please get in touch to begin a private consultation.