FAQ's

Welcome to our FAQ section where we’ve gathered answers to the most common questions. Whether you’re curious about our design process, care instructions for your hats, or shipping policies, we’re here to help you find the information you need. Explore below to learn more about our passion for creating beautiful, handcrafted hats just for you and if you have any other questions or require further information please do not hesitate to get it contact with us.

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Gift wrapping and packaging

How is my headpiece packaged for delivery?
Like a fabulous gift, all headpieces are sent to you in our special House of London branded boxes. Each piece is carefully wrapped in tissue paper and tied with a bow for an elegant presentation.

What precautions are taken for safe delivery?
Your precious parcel is bundled in bubble wrap and packed securely in a sturdy box, clearly marked as fragile. We take great care to ensure that your headpiece arrives safely and in perfect condition.

Care instructions

What’s the best way to store my headpiece?
To preserve the condition of your headpiece, please store it in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight.

How can I prevent damage?
Make sure to keep the piece in a box to prevent any bending of the brim or flattening of the floral details. Proper storage will help maintain the beauty and integrity of your headpiece for years to come.

Sizing details

What sizes do your headpieces come in?
All headpieces vary in size, ranging from 10cm to 50cm in diameter. Each piece is designed to fit comfortably on any head size.

How are the headpieces secured?
Most headpieces come with a headband to help secure them in place. For larger, heavily embellished designs, we also attach additional millinery elastic for extra stability. This ensures that your headpiece stays in the desired position throughout your special day.

Securing your headpiece

What’s the best way to secure my headpiece?
For extra security, we recommend using long Kirby grips or hair pins—similar to those used for professional up-dos. These should be placed along the headband and secured as close to the scalp as possible. Ideally, aim to hide them under the florals or hat base and behind the ears.

Any tips for added hold?
Spritz your hair with hairspray before and after pinning to help keep everything in place. This will ensure that your beautiful statement headpiece stays securely and discreetly positioned for your special day.

Returns

Do you accept returns on bespoke items?
Due to the bespoke nature of each design and the fact that every piece is handcrafted from scratch when an order is placed, we typically do not accept returns.

How do you ensure a perfect match for my custom design?
We take great care to ensure a perfect match for your bespoke design through thorough discussions. This can include text messages, phone calls, WhatsApp, or FaceTime calls. We also provide regular updates with images throughout the entire process and send pictures of the finished piece before shipping.

What if I have questions or need advice?
If you’re unsure about deadlines, color matches, or just need some advice, please don’t hesitate to get in touch! We love discussing your plans to ensure you are 100% happy with your custom piece.

Turnaround times

How long does it take to create my headpiece?
Depending on the season, we typically create your piece within 2-3 days. Your fabulous headpiece will always be sent out using a next-day delivery courier service.

What about bespoke or custom orders?
Bespoke or custom orders may take longer depending on the complexity of the design. We will communicate any extended timelines at the time of your order.

Is there an option for a speedy turnaround?
If you require a quicker turnaround, we do offer a speedy service. Please feel free to ask for more details!

Delivery

What shipping methods do you use?
We send out your parcel via next-day delivery using either a UPS courier or a Royal Mail signed-for service. Your shipment is fully tracked throughout its journey to ensure your headpiece arrives safely and swiftly.

Do you ship internationally?
At this time, we only create bespoke items and ship to customers within the UK. We appreciate your understanding!

Sustainability, Environmental & Social Commitments

At House of London, our commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles is integral to our operations. We prioritize sourcing materials from local traders across London, particularly our neighbours at Covent Garden Flower Market, and from family-owned businesses throughout the UK. By focusing on local suppliers, we aim to support small businesses and reduce our carbon footprint.

We take pride in nurturing strong relationships with our suppliers, ensuring that our sourcing practices benefit the community. Rarely do we import materials from outside England, except for bridal laces, which we obtain directly from the finest fashion houses in Barcelona, ensuring quality while maintaining our local ethos.

In our efforts to minimize waste, we carefully source exquisite vintage materials, including silk and satin fabrics, florals, crystals, and antique embellishments. We believe that these unique additions not only reduce excess waste but also enhance the character and individuality of each headpiece we create. This commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship allows us to offer our clients truly distinctive pieces while honoring our responsibility to the environment and our community.

Our bespoke design process

At House of London, we pride ourselves on creating unique, bespoke pieces tailored to your individual style. Here’s how our design process works:

  1. Inspiration Gathering: Start by exploring our website to see the hat designs that resonate with you. Whether you prefer a dramatic wide-brimmed saucer or a delicate fascinator, our gallery is organized by color to help inspire your choice. Don’t forget to check out our floral section, where you can explore various flower options. If you find something that catches your eye or matches your vision, let us know!
  2. Outfit Details: To ensure your bespoke piece complements your outfit perfectly, please send us any images of your attire or a link to your dress. We also welcome fabric samples or color swatches, especially if your outfit is custom-made.
  3. Design Options: We’ll curate a selection of flower and hat base options based on your preferences and send you images for your review. This step is all about collaboration!
  4. Mock-Ups: After we’ve narrowed down your choices, we’ll create mock-ups of potential designs, showcasing how the florals and other details come together. You’ll have the opportunity to select your favorite concept.
  5. Finalizing the Design: Once you’ve chosen your preferred design, we’ll finalize the plan and get to work crafting your bespoke piece.
  6. Approval Stage: When the hat is complete, we’ll send you images for your final approval. At this stage, you can request any amendments to ensure everything is just right.
  7. Delivery: Once you’re completely satisfied, we’ll ship your finished piece directly to you using a next-day delivery courier.

Our bespoke millinery service is designed to be a seamless and enjoyable experience, alleviating any stress associated with creating your own custom piece. We’re here to support you every step of the way, ensuring your vision becomes a stunning reality!