Frequently Asked Questions
I would like to order a gown but in another color is that possible?
Many of the gowns unless specified can be ordered in several colors. Please contact us before ordering to see which colors the gown can be ordered in.
I would like to try on one of your gowns before I buy it, is this possible?
Currently we are an online boutique and do not have a physical store front. However we do offer something unique and not found in the industry. We offer bridal and corset consultations within your home. Currently in home bridal and corset consultations are offered to customers in the Wichita, KS area and include all of KS and the surrounding metropolitan areas. When you book an appointment with a bridal consultant you will be able to view our sample gowns and corsets, fabric swatches, embroidery and custom design portfolios and samples, etc… up close and personal in the privacy of your own home.
In home bridal consultations start at $150 and generally last 2-3 hours. Designs are looked at and tried on. Measurements are taken, fabrics are chosen, sketches can be made, etc…Follow up fitting appointments will be made in the comfort of your own home.
In home bridal consultations outside the Wichita, KS area include all of KS, and part of the surrounding states. For consultations outside the Wichita area please contact us for prices.
I have heard you offer a service called “corset parties” what is this service and how can I book a party?
The Secret Boutique is now offering corset parties in the Wichita, KS area. Corset parties are parties where customers can have a party inviting friends to view and try on different sample corsets. You may view our fabrics and custom made corset designs, embroidery designs, embellishments, we can even draw up sketches of unique one of kind designs made just for you. We can take each customer’s measurements and give them style advice for their individual corset needs. Customers can browse our exclusive design and embroidery portfolios. Hostesses will receive a discount on their corsets when hosting corset parties. We also offer a range of ready made corsets that can be viewed as well from other quality designers in the industry. Follow up fitting appointments can be made for couture corsets. In home corset parties are a fun unique way to order beautiful couture corsets!
Why are your gowns and custom corsets so expensive?
Our exclusive custom made merchandise is always more expensive then buying an “off the peg” gown from the nearest mall. Almost all of our merchandise is hand made by skilled seamstresses here in the United States. We adhere to strict quality control and control every aspect here within our studio from the moment you place your order until the time it arrives. We use some of the finest fabrics available on the market and offer an array of unique custom designs and embroidery. You will not see any of our gowns at the nearest bridal store or mall. We offer excellent customer service from consultations via email/phone with each client to ongoing communication throughout the entire process. We get to know you as an individual and enjoy understanding who you are and what you have envisioned for you custom made design.
I am worried about ordering a gown online and the gown not fitting, do you have a return policy?
95% of the gowns and corsets we have designed for women have fit beautifully. We use a very detailed measurement chart to design your custom order from. Accurate measuring is essential when ordering your custom gown, corset, or design. We also send a mock up bodice or "toile" for custom bridal gowns, corsets, and formal gowns to help ensure your custom design will fit you beautifully. The Secret Boutique can not be held responsible for inaccurate measurements submitted by the client.
Return policy For Custom Made Merchandise:
Due to the nature of our business there are absolutely no returns for any custom made merchandise. Custom made merchandise is defined as any merchandise designed to custom sizing or specifications, or any merchandise that is customized in anyway. Please note we can not be held responsible for inaccurate measurements submitted by the customer. We recommend having your measurements taken by a professional tailor or seamstress.
Please note we make every attempt to make our gowns with extra length in the hem and large side seams to allow for any adjustments that may be needed due to inaccurate measurements.
Return policy For non-custom orders:
If you are not satisfied with your purchase you may return it for an exchange or store credit, less any shipping/handling charges. Exchanges must be received within 14 days of your order. Items must be in original condition. Please note when trying on corsets wear a t-shirt to avoid any marks and do not lace the corset too tight. Corsets will quickly form to the shape of your body when tight laced
How will I know what measurements are needed for my gown?
We will send you a detailed measurement chart to be signed and filled out.
What types of payments do you accept?
We accept payments by credit or debit card via PayPal. Personal bank checks or money orders sent by postal mail must be made out to “The Secret Boutique”. Please allow 14 days for personal checks and money orders to clear before order is processed.
Do you offer layaway?
Yes, if you would like to pay for your corset or gown through our layaway option then please contact us. We require a deposit of 50% before placing an order. We will send you an invoice for the final payment once the merchandise is finished. Merchandise will not be shipped until the balance is paid in full. You have 14 business days to cancel an order. After 14 days orders cannot be cancelled and deposit is non-refundable.
I love the bodice of one gown and the skirt of another is it possible to order a gown customized like this?
Yes, if you find that you would like to combine two different designs then call or email us for details and an estimate.
What is your delivery time?
Please understand it is important to order our merchandise early. Our services can be booked for 6 months in advance with corset and bridal commissions, it is essential that you contact us before placing an order. Most of the merchandise we offer is made to measure and takes time to make. Before placing an order for a wedding gown we always ask that you contact us for availability. It can take a minimum of 10-12 weeks to receive a wedding gown. Normal delivery time for corsets is 8-10 weeks. During different times of the year because of high/low volumes of orders you may receive your merchandise sooner. If we are experiencing a very busy season and our production time exceeds our normal delivery time you will be contacted promptly.
Do you ship to other countries? Will I have to pay custom duty taxes?
Yes, we ship worldwide. Please understand if you place an international order you may have to pay custom duty taxes for your country. We are not responsible for paying custom duty taxes.
How will my gown come packaged?
You can expect to receive your gown beautifully packaged in a large box along with instructions on how to care for your gown. (For wedding gowns only: A garment bag and an extra swatch of your fabric will also be included in your package).
How will my gown come packaged?
We require signature confirmation and insurance on all of our wedding gowns. We prefer to ship via UPS and we do require a confirmed address when the order is placed thru PayPal. For bridal gowns delivery within the US & Canada is $45.00 for all other international deliveries $65.00 USD.
What if I decide to cancel my order after I have made a deposit?
You have 14 business days to cancel your order and your deposit will be refunded in full. If you choose to cancel your order after 14 days your deposit will be forfeited and you may still be responsible for the remainder of the balance. Gowns not paid in full will become the sole property of the Secret Boutique within 6 months of the remaining balance due and will be sold out of consignment.