Designer Alterations launches Made to Measure service

Can't find what you want in the shops? Get it made instead...

Clothes guru Julia Dee and her company D esigner Alterations h as been a fashion industry secret for years.

She's the go-to girl for editors, celebrities (Elle Macpherson and Jemima Khan have her on speed-dial) and design houses including Gucci, for all things related to clothes repair and care emergencies - whether it's a rip, a hem emergency or a moth attack.

Her company started out in a tiny studio but is now a veritable empire in South London, employing more than 20 specialist tailors and fitters - and now she's putting their skills to use with a new made to measure service.

Whether you've got a specific idea of what you want or you're in need of some creative inspiration, her team can whip up whatever your heart requires - from coming up with the design, to choosing fabrics and making it second-skin perfect for your measurements.

The process takes 2-3 fittings. Prices start at £400 for a simple top or skirt and go up to £1,000 for a full-on frock.

Yes, we hear the sharp intake of breath. But considering you'd be lucky to get change out of £20,000 for a designer couture dress (and there's no telling Karl Lagerfeld or John Galliano what to design, either), it starts to look almost bargainous... 

In other news, the company's launching a 'Disaster on the Night' service, for last-minute wardrobe malfunctions.

A fitter or mobile machinist can come to any venue within the M25 to fix a pre-party disaster like a broken zip, lipstick stain or snapped shoe strap.

Summer clothes crises solved!