How It All Works

  • The MyAbishai Philosophy: A Perfect Fit, Every Time

    My philosophy is simple: on your most important day, you deserve to feel like the most beautiful, confident, and powerful version of yourself. For over 20 years, my passion has been to architect that perfect fit.


    That's why every client relationship is a high-touch, personal partnership. I work strictly by appointment only, which allows me to provide the focused, individual service that this intricate work demands.


    The foundation of this experience is direct, honest communication. I believe in being upfront. If a desired alteration is not possible or will compromise the integrity of the gown, I will tell you. If there is a more cost-effective solution, we will explore it together. My ultimate loyalty is to the final product and your absolute satisfaction.


    This is the crucial difference: I am not just a master seamstress; I am a designer and a dress architect. This unique combination of skills allows me to see the structural possibilities within a garment. It means I often find creative and unconventional solutions to complex challenges that others might deem impossible—from modernizing a priceless heirloom to transforming a dress you bought online into the gown of your dreams.


    Ultimately, I don't just see the dress. I see the person wearing it, and the powerful story you want to tell.

  • The Expert Consultation

    For Complex Projects & Peace of Mind


    Unsure if your vision is possible? Have a priceless heirloom you're afraid to touch? This is where we start. I offer a dedicated, one-hour consultation to assess complex projects, explore creative solutions, and provide a clear blueprint for what can be achieved. This is a paid, professional service designed to give you peace of mind and a clear path forward.


    The fee for this one-hour session is $45 and is separate from any future alteration costs.


    To help our initial conversation, I highly recommend using the dedicated inquiry form below, which will allow you to attach images of your gown. Please note, while images are incredibly helpful, a final quote can only be provided after an in-person assessment.

Dress Consultation Inquiry

  • The Alteration Process

    From First Call to Final Fitting


    Step 1: The Initial Conversation. I do not book any appointments without a direct conversation first. This ensures we are a perfect fit and allows us to begin setting clear expectations from the start. Please fill out our main inquiry form, and I will personally be in touch.


    Step 2: Scheduling Your Fitting. After our initial call, you will receive a private link to schedule your fitting at a time that is convenient for you.


    Step 3: The Fittings. Fitting times vary based on complexity. A wedding gown fitting is typically scheduled for one hour. Other special occasion dresses are usually 30-45 minutes. While most garments require two fittings (the initial pinning and the final pickup), please be aware that intricate alterations may require further adjustments. This is a normal part of creating a perfect fit.


    Step 4: The Final Pickup Fitting. Your garment is not finished until you have tried it on one last time and are completely thrilled with the result. This final fitting ensures that not only does the dress look perfect, but that it is structured to hold up beautifully throughout your entire special event.


    Contact Fatima to get started.

  • The Custom Design Process: Your Vision, Brought to Life

     The Architecture of a Dream Gown


    For Heirloom Items. please visit the Heirloom Wedding Gowns page.


    Creating a custom piece—whether it's a gown, a veil, or a unique accessory—is a deeply personal and collaborative journey. My role is not to impose my style, but to act as your personal dress architect. I am here to enhance your unique vision and create a garment that is a true reflection of you.


    The Process:

    The Design Session: Our first meeting is a foundational design and planning session. Please bring any and all visual inspirations you have. Together, we will co-create the blueprint, exploring every detail and ensuring we are perfectly aligned.


    The Architectural Fittings: True custom work goes far beyond simple measurements. We will have several fittings where I will create and sculpt the pattern directly on your body. This is a crucial and unique part of my process. It allows you to see and feel the design taking shape in real time, ensures a flawless fit, and provides perfect clarity. This "live blueprinting" eliminates any miscommunication and allows for real-time adjustments before a single piece of your final fabric is cut. It is a process designed to honor your vision and create a work of art.


  • Preparing For Your Fitting: Our Partnership for Perfection

    A Critically Important Health Note: 

    I am SEVERELY allergic to cat hair. Exposure can cause a my throat to close up immediately! Please ensure any garments brought into the studio are completely free of cat hair. I genuinely appreciate your understanding and cooperation in maintaining a safe environment.


    To ensure a perfect and efficient fitting, it is essential that you bring the exact shoes and undergarments you will be wearing on your wedding day. This includea any slips and bras. The bra is very critical. It affects every single part of the dress.


    Please note: If you arrive unprepared for your scheduled time, the fitting will not be able to proceed and will need to be rescheduled. This ensures that every client receives the focused and dedicated time their garment deserves.

  • Pricing & Investment

    A Clear & Transparent Approach


    I believe in direct, honest communication in all aspects of my work, and that includes pricing. My goal is to provide Hall of Fame-level artistry at a fair and transparent investment.


    Alterations

    No two gowns are alike, and a "one-price-fits-all" approach would be unfair to both of us. The final investment is always based on the specific, intricate work required and the time it will take to achieve a perfect fit. I will always be upfront with you about the costs involved.


    Wedding Gown Alterations: 

    Most of my brides can expect to invest between $350 and $500 for their alterations.


    Special Occasion Dress Alterations: Typically fall in the $100 to $200 range, depending on the complexity.


    Custom Design

    Creating a bespoke garment is a deeply collaborative and time-intensive process. The final investment will depend on fabric selection, design complexity, and the hours of patterning and craftsmanship required.


    Custom Wedding Gowns: 

    Begin at a minimum investment of $2,000.


    Custom Special Occasion Dresses: 

    Begin at a minimum investment of $500.


    For more in-depth information on transforming a family heirloom, please visit my dedicated Heirloom Wedding Gowns page.


    A 50% non-refundable deposit is required for all services to begin the work. I am always happy to answer any and all questions you have.


Explore MyAbishai

You are currently in the MyAbishai microsite, the bespoke bridal wing of my main professional platform. To navigate within this digital boutique experience, please use the dedicated menu buttons below.
Please note, the primary menu at the top of the page will guide you to the world of Fatima Bey The MindShifter.