Frequently Asked Questions

Ordering & Delivery

Are your garments made to order?

Yes. The majority of our collection is made to order in our Brighton studio and by our network of local makers. This allows us to produce only what is needed, reducing waste and ensuring each piece receives the attention it deserves.

Do you keep stock?

We hold a small selection of ready-to-wear pieces, samples and limited-edition garments. Most items are made to order, particularly our silk bombers, shirts and artist editions.

How long will my order take?

As each garment is made especially for you, delivery times vary depending on the piece and our current workload. Most made-to-order garments take between 2–6 weeks, but this can be longer depending on if your fabric is available or has to be printed. If you need something for a particular date, please get in touch before ordering.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes. We regularly ship throughout Europe, North America and beyond. Shipping costs and delivery times are exclusive of import duties. We are not responsible for these costs, no can we pay them for you.

Can I track my order?

Yes. Once your order has been dispatched, you will receive tracking details via email.

Sizing & Fit

How do I choose the right size?

Each product page includes detailed measurements and sizing guidance. If you're unsure, we'd much rather help beforehand than have you order the wrong size. Simply get in touch and we'll happily advise.

Can you make alterations?

In many cases, yes. Sleeve lengths, garment lengths and certain fit adjustments can often be accommodated. Please contact us before ordering so we can discuss your requirements.

Do you offer bespoke sizing?

We offer a limited bespoke service on selected pieces. Additional pattern work and fittings may incur an extra charge depending on the complexity of the request.

Can I visit the studio to try things on?

Absolutely. We welcome visitors by appointment at our Brighton studio where you can view collections, discuss commissions and try on selected samples.

Hand Printing & Craftsmanship

Are your garments really printed by hand?

Yes. Many of our collections are hand screen printed by Sophie in our Brighton studio using traditional screen printing techniques. Due to the handmade nature of the process, no two pieces are ever completely identical. We also produce a digital collection printed in the UK.

Why do some prints vary slightly?

Small variations are part of what makes hand printing special. Tiny differences in placement, texture or colour are not faults but evidence of a garment being made by hand rather than mass-produced.

Where are your garments made?

Our garments are designed, printed, cut and made in the UK. We work with a small network of skilled local makers and specialist suppliers who share our commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

What fabrics do you use?

We carefully select natural and high-quality fabrics including silk, organic cotton and wool. Fabric choices vary between collections and are listed on each product page.

Sustainability

What does made-to-order mean?

Made-to-order means we only produce a garment once it has been purchased. This helps eliminate unnecessary stock, reduces waste and allows us to work more sustainably.

Why does made-to-order take longer?

Because your garment is being created specifically for you rather than taken from a warehouse shelf. We believe beautiful things are worth waiting for.

Is Sophie Darling a sustainable fashion brand?

We prefer to focus on thoughtful production rather than making broad sustainability claims. We not believe in green washing so we are open and homest about our processes.

Our approach includes made-to-order manufacturing, small production runs, local making, limited editions and creating pieces designed to be worn and loved for years.

Returns & Exchanges

Can I return my order?

Ready-to-wear items may be returned in accordance with our returns policy. Items must be unworn and returned in their original condition.

Can I return a made-to-order garment?

As made-to-order garments are created specifically for you, we are unable to accept returns unless the item is faulty. We encourage customers to contact us before ordering if they have any questions about sizing or fit.

What if my garment arrives damaged?

Please contact us within 48 hours of receiving your order and we'll work with you to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

Commissions & Artist Editions

Do you accept commissions?

Yes. We undertake bespoke commissions for private clients, performers, stylists and special occasions.

Can you create a custom print or colourway?

Sometimes. This depends on the project, timescale and minimum quantities involved. Please contact us to discuss your ideas.

What are Artist Editions?

Artist Editions are our most limited pieces. They are often hand printed individually by Sophie and produced in extremely small quantities, making each garment a unique wearable work of art.

I've seen a piece online that is sold out. Can you remake it?

Sometimes. If we still have access to the original screens, artwork and fabric, we may be able to recreate a design. Please get in touch and we'll let you know what's possible.

Care & Longevity

How should I care for my garment?

Every garment arrives with care instructions specific to the fabric and print technique used. As a general rule, we recommend washing less often, treating garments with care and storing them thoughtfully. Well-made clothes can last for many years when looked after properly.

Do you offer repairs?

Yes. We believe clothing should be worn, repaired and loved rather than replaced. If your Sophie Darling piece needs attention, please get in touch and we'll advise on repair options wherever possible.

Will the print fade over time?

Like all printed and dyed textiles, some gentle ageing is natural. We carefully select our printing methods and materials to ensure your garment remains beautiful for years to come. Following the care instructions will help preserve both colour and fabric.

Payments & Ordering

Do you offer payment plans?

We understand that many of our garments are considered purchases. We offer payment options through selected payment providers at checkout. If you have any questions, please contact us before ordering.

Can I reserve a garment before ordering?

For Artist Editions and limited releases, we occasionally offer reservation windows or pre-order periods. Join our mailing list to hear about upcoming collections and release dates first.

Fabrics & Samples

Can I order fabric swatches?

For selected collections, yes. If you're considering a commission, made-to-order piece or would simply like to see a fabric before ordering, please contact us and we'll let you know what's available.

Why might the colours look different online?

We photograph our collections as accurately as possible, but colours can vary slightly between screens and devices. Hand printing can also create subtle variations that are part of the beauty of the process.

Design & Collections

Will you reprint a previous design?

Sometimes. Certain designs become part of our archive and are never reproduced, while others may return in future collections. If you've fallen in love with a particular print, do get in touch and we'll let you know if it may be available again.

Why do some collections sell out so quickly?

Many of our collections are produced in very small numbers or released as limited editions. We work intentionally in small batches, allowing us to focus on quality, creativity and craftsmanship rather than volume.

What is an Artist Edition?

Artist Editions are the closest thing we create to wearable artwork. Often hand printed individually by Sophie, they feature additional layers of print, specialist techniques or finishes and are produced in extremely limited quantities.

Commissions & Special Projects

Do you create garments for weddings and special occasions?

Yes. We have created bespoke garments for brides, wedding guests, performers, artists and special events. If you have a project in mind, we'd love to hear from you.

Can you create something entirely unique for me?

Possibly. We occasionally undertake bespoke commissions where a garment is developed specifically for a client. Availability depends on our production schedule and the nature of the project.

Do you work with stylists, costume designers and productions?

Yes. Sophie Darling garments have been worn for editorial shoots, television productions and special projects. Please contact us with your requirements and deadlines.

The Darling Way

Why do you work made-to-order?

Because we believe clothing should be made with intention. Producing garments only when they are needed allows us to avoid excess stock, reduce waste and focus on creating pieces that are genuinely valued by the people who wear them.

Why are Sophie Darling garments more expensive than high street clothing?

Each piece is designed, printed and made in small quantities using skilled craftsmanship and carefully sourced materials. You're not simply buying a garment; you're supporting local making, traditional print techniques and a slower, more considered approach to fashion.

Who designs and prints the collections?

Every Sophie Darling collection begins with artwork created by Sophie. Many prints are then hand screen printed in our Brighton studio before being transformed into garments by our trusted network of local makers.

What makes a Sophie Darling garment different?

We don't follow trends or produce large volumes. Every piece begins with original artwork and is created slowly, thoughtfully and in limited numbers. Our aim is simple: to make beautiful garments that people treasure and wear for years.