How the first appointment goes

The rack is pulled before you arrive. That is what the booking form is for: the line, the usual size and the budget range are enough to have eight real candidates ready instead of walking the room looking for them.

Bring nude seamless underwear and the shoe height you plan to wear. Hair up is easier for dresses that close at the back.

Up to three guests. Three people give an opinion; six give a committee, and the appointment turns into a negotiation about someone else's taste.

Prices are said out loud at the start, before anything is tried on. Nothing on the rack is a surprise at the till, and the alteration is quoted the same day in writing.

There is no charge for the appointment and no card is held. If a dress is bought from the rack, it usually goes home with you the same day, and the alterations are booked before you leave.