Bespoke Costume Commissions
 

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What I Create

Tidewater Dancewear creates bespoke ballet costumes for individual dancers and studio productions. Commissions may include classical tutus, bodices, character costumes, and coordinated costumes for group works. Each project is designed around the role, the movement required, and the visual needs of the performance.

Studio commissions can range from a set of tutu skirts to a larger group design. The details of each project are discussed individually so the construction, finish, and cost reflect what the production actually needs.

What I Do Not Create

We do not create tap, contemporary or halloween (ultra low budget Chinese manufactured costumes with the hopes of "keeping it cheap".   

My Pricing

I work within an hourly rate determined by my years of experience in the business, the investments I have made to continually learn from Master Tutu Makers around the world and the time and materials plus overhead taxes and shipping are all charged.  Expect the average bespoke costume to start at approximately $1200.00 CAD and depending on the intricacy, stones , crystals, beading and embellishments, and prime materials used in the costume this will increase depending on the level you have asked for.  All quotations are sent with careful consideration to all these aspects.  If I feel your budget ecpectations far undervalue the actual costs then I will decline early so you may find another maker.

How It Works

Begin by sending a commission inquiry with your performance date and a description of what you have in mind. I’ll review the project and let you know whether I have space in my schedule. From there, we can discuss the design, number of costumes, sizing, materials, and any practical requirements for the dancers or production.

Once the scope is clear, I’ll prepare a quote for your review. Construction begins after the design, price, and project terms have been agreed upon. I allow appropriate time for each stage of the work, so early inquiries are especially helpful for performances and group orders.

Before You Inquire

You do not need to have every design detail settled. To help me assess your project, please include the ballet, role, or production; whether the costume is for one dancer or a group; the number of costumes needed; your performance date; and your location.

You are welcome to share colour ideas, reference images, or requirements from your artistic director. If you already have a budget in mind, you may include it so we can discuss what is possible within the scope of the project.