If you've never ordered a custom piece of clothing before, it can feel like a big, mysterious thing. It isn't. It's a conversation between you and the person making it, and the whole point is that you end up with something that fits you and nobody else. Here's exactly how it works when you order from me at Forbidden Fruit.
1. Start with the idea
You don't need a sketch or a perfect plan. Some people send me a full mood board. Others send one photo and the words "something like this, but in green." Both are great. Tell me what you're picturing, what it's for, and anything you already know you love or hate: a neckline, a length, a texture.
I work in crochet, knitting, sewing, lace and tatting, so a custom piece can be anything from a crocheted top to a full look. If you like something already in the shop, like a piece from Tailored, I can also remake it in your size and color.
2. Send your measurements
This is the part that makes custom clothing worth it. Instead of choosing between a small and a medium, I make the piece around your actual body. I'll ask for a few key measurements, usually bust, waist, hips and a length or two depending on the piece. If you've never measured yourself, I wrote a full guide: how to take your measurements at home.
3. Get a quote and timeline
Once I know what you want and how it needs to fit, I'll send you a price and a realistic timeline. Handmade work takes time. A simple crocheted top might take a week or two of making. A full look with several pieces can take several weeks. I'll always tell you honestly rather than promise a date I can't keep.
To hold your spot, there's a $20 deposit for custom clothing. It goes toward your final price, so you're not paying extra for it. It just tells me you're serious and lets me start buying yarn and fabric for you.
4. Approve it, and I make it by hand
Before I start, you approve the plan: the design, the colors, the fit and the price. Then it goes on my table. Every stitch is done by hand, by me. If anything comes up along the way, like a color that looks different in person, I'll message you before I make a call.
5. It ships to you, anywhere
When it's finished, I'll send you photos and then ship it. Forbidden Fruit ships worldwide, so wherever you are, your piece can find you.
What does custom clothing cost?
It depends on the piece, the material and how much work goes into it. A one-piece crochet top costs a lot less than a full outfit with shoes and accessories. Bigger sizes use more material and more hours, so they cost a little more. That's the honest way to price handmade work. If you have a budget, tell me up front. I'm happy to design around it.
Ready to start?
Head to the custom clothing request and tell me your idea. If you'd rather browse first, Tailored has pieces I can make in any size and color, and The Rack has one-of-one pieces that are ready now.