The Art of Bespoke
At Vinka Design, the creation of a bespoke wedding gown is more than the act of making a dress — it is the artistry of bringing a bride’s identity to life in fabric and form. We believe a bridal gown is not merely made to be admired — it is meant to be worn, to move with grace, and to mirror the woman within it. It is a living work of art that should feel as though it was always meant for you — because it was.
This philosophy has guided the Vinka label for over sixty years, and it continues to shape every gown we create. While we do create collections of bridal gowns for display in our Atelier, most of our clientele opt to have a wedding gown custom-made for them, which is where, as designers and as couturiers, we hit our stride.
Choosing a bespoke gown marks the beginning of a deeply personal collaboration between designer and bride — a creative partnership where our expertise is woven together with your vision. Each design is sculpted to your unique silhouette, character, and desires — a seamless union of artistic design and technical mastery.
Bespoke is where our knowledge becomes a tool to shape your dreams into form, and where the gown becomes an extension of your identity, meticulously brought to life by hand in our Auckland atelier. The result is not just a dress, but a creation that feels like it was imagined by you, and made by us — together.
This concept forms the backbone of all our work at Vinka Design and drives us as artists to create pieces that celebrate the silhouettes, complement the characters and embrace the integrity of the women who will be wearing them. It’s how we know that what we design is couture.
Other Services
While our bespoke gowns are designed and handcrafted in-house to your exact measurements and vision, we also offer a range of made-to-order gowns, available in both standard and custom sizing. These gowns follow a different process — created from our established designs, in-house, and tailored to suit a wider range of timelines, locations, and preferences. Our made-to-order gowns are ideal for brides seeking refined design with greater ease and accessibility.
If you’re unsure whether a bespoke gown or one of our made-to-order designs is the best path for you, we’re always here to help guide you. Contact us to discuss your options or arrange a consultation.
Bespoke Process
Initial Consultation
Every bespoke gown begins with a conversation – a meeting of minds and inspiration. In your first consultation, our Head Designer, and Creative Director, Anita will listen carefully to your ideas, exploring silhouettes, fabrics, and design elements that reflect your vision. As you speak, she sketches – bringing the concept to life in real-time, capturing your essence on paper. From this initial design, we will provide a tailored quote.
Second Consultation
Often, the creative process calls for a second consultation – a moment to refine the details and fall in love with the elements that make your gown truly yours. After the initial consultation fee, all future consultations are complimentary. With shelves of exquisite fabrics and hand-selected laces from around the world housed in our atelier at our in-house fabric library, the possibilities are endless – and our team is here to guide you with care and expertise.
Confirmation & Deposit
Once your design is confirmed, we request a deposit of one-third of the total price to begin crafting your gown. You will receive a beautifully presented folder containing your final hand-drawn sketch and samples of the selected materials – a keepsake that marks the beginning of your gown’s creation.
Measurements
The true artistry begins around 10 to 12 weeks before your wedding to ensure a perfect fit, though we are able to start earlier or accommodate tighter timelines where needed. During this stage, we take approximately 30 precise measurements – ensuring that your gown is sculpted to your exact shape and form. These numbers, though technical, are the foundation of something deeply personal: a dress that feels like a second skin, made only for you.
Fittings
Bringing your gown to life requires a series of fittings, each one an opportunity to perfect the details and see your vision unfold. Typically, we recommend a series of three or four fittings, once measurements have been taken, though the number of fittings and their timing depends on the design and availability of the bride.
- First fitting: We shape the foundation – refining the neckline, structure, and silhouette to flatter and embrace your form.
- Second fitting: The base of the gown is completed. Here we perfect and finish the base gown, and finalise the hem and zip.
- Third fitting: The collaborative placement of lace and embellishments – every detail chosen with intention.
- Final fitting: Your gown, now complete, is tried on with a focus on finishing touches – from custom veils and accessories to any last adjustments. You leave knowing the dress is not only perfect – it is yours.
Collection
Your gown is typically collected the week before or the week of your wedding, depending on your schedule and requirements. At this final appointment, we rehearse with you – how to step into the gown with ease, how to bustle the train, and how to move with confidence. We also share care instructions so your gown remains pristine long after the celebration ends. When you leave, you don’t just take a dress – you carry a piece of art, a story, a memory stitched into every seam.
