Ralph & Russo Beaded Dress | Hand-Embellished Couture Gowns

Yes, we offer bespoke adjustments to bead placement, density, and color within our existing silhouette designs. During your initial consultation, our design team will discuss your preferences and show you samples of different bead types and pattern variations.

Fully custom patterns that deviate significantly from our established designs require a bespoke commission, which involves additional design fees and extended production time. Most clients find that adjusting bead color or density within our core designs achieves the personalization they’re seeking without the complexity of a full custom order.

Store your gown on a padded satin hanger in a breathable cotton garment bag, never in plastic, which can trap moisture and damage silk fibers. Hang it in a cool, dark closet away from direct sunlight, which can fade both fabric and bead finishes over time.

Avoid folding the beaded areas, as this stresses the threadwork and can create permanent creases in the tulle. If closet space is limited, you can roll the gown loosely in acid-free tissue paper and store it flat in a large archival box. Check on it every few months to ensure no mildew or fabric stress has developed.

Most of our beaded gowns weigh between four and seven pounds, depending on the density of embellishment and the length of the skirt. While this is heavier than an unembellished silk dress, the weight is distributed through internal boning and structured seams, so it doesn’t feel burdensome when worn.

Clients are often surprised by how comfortable the gowns are despite the beading. The key is that we engineer the internal construction to carry the weight, rather than relying solely on straps or the waistline. This design approach prevents shoulder strain and allows you to wear the gown comfortably for an entire evening.

Minor alterations such as shortening straps, taking in the waist by up to two inches, or adjusting the bust can be done by our atelier or an authorized couture tailor. We include a small pouch of spare beads with every gown specifically for repairs and adjustments that might affect the embroidery.

Significant structural changes — like altering the neckline, adding sleeves, or changing the skirt length — are more complex because they require re-embroidering sections and may affect the garment’s balance. For major alterations, we recommend consulting with our atelier directly to assess feasibility and timeline.

We recommend seamless, nude-toned undergarments that sit flat against the body, as any texture or elastic lines can show through the fitted bodice. Most of our gowns include built-in corsetry and boning, so a separate bra is often unnecessary — many clients wear only shapewear or low-profile briefs.

During your fitting appointment, our team will advise on the best undergarment choices for your specific gown and body type. Bring the undergarments and shoes you plan to wear on the day of your event so we can ensure the fit accounts for every layer.

Our beaded gowns are made to order for individual clients and are not available for rental. Occasionally, we offer sample gowns from runway shows or photoshoots through private sales, but availability is limited and varies by season.

If you’re interested in sample sale opportunities, contact our client services team to be added to our notification list. Sample gowns are sold as-is with no alterations included, and sizing is typically limited to the model proportions used during the original fitting.