Atelier

Custom & Bespoke Consultation

A private consultation for custom and made-to-measure garments. Designed and built in house, from the first measurement to the final fitting.

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Tailoring & Alterations

Expert tailoring and alterations for men and women. Every garment handled in house, by appointment.

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Full Body Measurements

A dedicated measurement appointment for sizing, custom orders, or atelier records. Complimentary for existing Ellie Belle clients.

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Illustration of a woman in a white wedding dress with a headscarf and bouquet on a white background

Designed for Your Culture. Tailored for You.

Custom Dresses & Gowns - From Nigerian aso-ebi and traditional wedding looks to custom prom and special-occasion dresses, designed in Eden Prairie and made just for you.

Celebrate your wedding or special occasion in a gown that honors tradition, craftsmanship, and modern elegance. At Ellie Belle, we specialize in African and Nigerian wedding dresses, custom tailoring, and refined styling, designed to fit beautifully and feel unforgettable.

Celebrate prom night in a dress no one else will be wearing. At Ellie Belle, we design custom African-inspired prom and graduation dresses using luxe laces, bold prints, and modern silhouettes. Whether you love corset mermaid gowns, dramatic ballgowns, or sleek evening dresses, we’ll sketch, fit, and finish a look that reflects your culture and your personal style. You can meet with us in-boutique or send in your measurements for a made-to-order design.

All consultations are private, by appointment only, at our Eden Prairie atelier.

16570 West 78th Street, Suite 120, Eden Prairie, MN 55346
612-464-4889
By Appointment Only

Starting Investment

Custom projects at Ellie Belle are priced based on design complexity, fabric selection, embellishment, and timeline. As a general guide

  • Custom Wedding Gown: Starting at $3,000
  • Custom Prom or Evening Gown: Starting at $1,500
  • Mother of the Bride or Groom: Starting at $2,000
  • Bespoke Suit: Starting at $2,000
  • All Other Custom Projects: Starting at $1,000

Pricing varies based on design complexity, fabric selection, embellishment, and timeline. Final pricing is confirmed in your written quote following your consultation.

Why Choose African Custom Tailoring at Ellie Belle

  • Deep experience with African and Nigerian bridal styles
  • Expert in-house tailoring and alterations
  • Luxury fabrics, lace, embroidery, and beadwork
  • Private, by-appointment consultations
  • Modern silhouettes with cultural authenticity

African & Nigerian Wedding Dresses

  • Nigerian lace gowns
  • Beaded & embroidered designs
  • Modern + traditional silhouettes
  • Ceremony & reception looks

Prom Dresses

  • Custom African prom dress
  • Nigerian prom dress
  • African lace prom gown
  • Custom African prom dresses (mermaid, ballgown, corset, off-shoulder & more)

Custom Tailoring & Alterations

  • Perfect fit for every body
  • Reshaping, length adjustments, bodice refinements
  • Bridal, formalwear, and occasion tailoring

Styling & Accessories

  • Veils & headpieces
  • Bridal shoes & accessories
  • Complete wedding-day styling

What to Expect at Your Appointment

  1. Private consultation with our styling and tailoring team
  2. Fabric, silhouette & fit discussion based on your event
  3. Expert measurements & tailoring guidance
  4. Clear next steps and timeline

Appointments are relaxed, thoughtful, and focused entirely on you.

FAQs about African Custom Dress

What is African custom tailoring?

African custom tailoring is the creation of garments made specifically for you using your measurements, chosen fabric, and preferred design. Every garment is individually crafted to achieve the fit, style, and details you envision.

Do you specialize in African and Nigerian wedding dresses?

Yes. We work with African and Nigerian wedding styles, including lace gowns, beaded designs, Aso-Ebi–inspired looks, and modern interpretations for weddings, engagements, and celebrations.

How far in advance should I book a custom dress project?

We recommend booking 4+ months in advance. Bridal and highly detailed designs may require more time. Prom and specialty pieces should be scheduled early to secure availability during peak seasons.

What types of African garments do you make?

Our atelier creates custom garments for men, women, and children, including traditional attire, modern African fashion, formalwear, ceremonial clothing, wedding attire, and garments for cultural celebrations and special occasions.

Do you create custom African wedding attire?

Yes. Our atelier creates custom garments for weddings, including attire for brides, grooms, parents, wedding parties, and traditional ceremonies.

Can you recreate a design from a photo?

Yes. During your consultation, we'll review your inspiration photos, discuss construction, fabric selection, and finishing details, then determine the best approach to bringing your vision to life.

Can I bring my own fabric?

Yes. You're welcome to bring your own fabric for your custom garment. If you'd like assistance selecting fabrics, our team can also provide guidance during your consultation.

Do you work with out-of-town clients?

Yes. Many clients travel to us for bespoke and bridal projects. We will help coordinate fittings to accommodate travel schedules.

How long does a custom garment take?

Production timelines vary depending on the complexity of the design, fabric availability, and the work involved. During your consultation, we'll provide an estimated completion timeline for your project.

What is the booking retainer and how does it work?

A $50 retainer is required to reserve your Custom & Bespoke Consultation and is applied toward the cost of your project. The retainer is refundable with at least 48 hours' notice. Once your consultation has taken place, it is non-refundable.

Will I need multiple fittings?

Most custom garments require one or more fittings to refine the fit before completion. The number of fittings depends on the complexity of the garment and the adjustments needed.

Do you offer alterations for African garments?

Yes. We provide alterations and tailoring for many African garments, including garments purchased elsewhere. During your appointment, we'll evaluate the garment and recommend the appropriate alterations.

What should I bring to my consultation?

Bring any inspiration photos, sketches, fabrics, accessories, or reference garments you'd like us to consider. We'll discuss your ideas, take measurements, and develop a plan for your custom garment.

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