Where are your products manufactured?
Our products are manufactured In-house on Demand in our on-demand manufacturing facility in NYC.
What is On-Demand manufacturing, and why is it better?
We have built the industry's lowest-waste manufacturing system. Using an operational algorithm, Deep data, technology, and an in-house manufacturing system that we have developed over the past 5 years. It’s very important for 3 main reasons;
- It reduces brand waste by more than 90 %.
- It allows us to make things in-house, employing American craftspeople who are paid more than fairly.
- It allows us to offer 30 unique sizes, as well as made-to-measure, made-to-order, and customized options.
Why are there limited quantities of some of your pieces?
We make some of our styles in limited-edition fabrics, either artists' prints that are purposefully limited, vintage fabric, or sustainably sourced deadstock materials from our traceable heritage mills. Quantities are limited on those styles because those fabrics are limited. They are sold on a first-come basis. We are never out of a size in those limited editions, just when it's gone, its gone. This adds to the specialness of our collections.
Can I order limited-edition pieces that are out of stock?
The limited-edition item is out of stock because the specific fabric is no longer available. We can create the same style for you using a different textile of your choosing.
When will I receive my order for items that are not customized?
Currently, we have a 7-10 day turnaround on all styles on our website. After our next round of investor fundraising we will expand our facility and our turn around time will be reduced to 2-3 days for anything from our regular and limited edition capsule collections.
Once your order has shipped, you will receive an email with further information.
Delivery times vary depending on your location and shipping preferences specified at checkout.
How much does shipping cost?
Expedited tracked ground Shipping is free anywhere in the continental United States for any order over $500. For all other shipping options, they are calculated based on your location and the items in your order. You will always know the shipping price before you purchase if applicable.
What is Made-to-Measure?
Made-to-Measure is an option we offer in addition to our 30 always available unique sizes. Made-to-measure is made to your exact measurements. Our team collaborates with you in a multi-step process to ensure the perfect fit. We take your measurements from 2 photos, which our fit technology analyzes, and generates a 3-D mannequin of your exact body with 80 fit data measurements.
Why is there an extra fee for made-to-Measure?
We charge an additional fee to dedicate team time to making made-to-measure. Every department on our team reviews your project. From fit tech to customer service. We also must develop a new pattern for those styles for your body, which also involves our patternmaking team.
How long does Made-to-Measure take?
Made-to-Measure styles take 3-4 working weeks from the date of the placed order (timing may change depending on fabric availability).
What is the difference between made-to-order and made-to-measure?
Made-to-order is when you want a style from our existing collection, in one of our 30 available sizes, but in a color or fabrication of your choosing. Made-to-order styles take 3-4 working weeks from the date the order is placed and color and fabrication are confirmed. (Timing may change depending on fabric availability.)
For made-to-order, you can select from our extensive fabric and color library either in person or if you are remote, we will send you a package with the discussed fabrics or colors in the made-to-order meeting.
Why do you charge an additional fee for made-to-order items?
It's based on the team time needed to focus on your specific garment for additional time. Our company bases all costs on a time-based algorithm, where each stage of the on-demand manufacturing process is timed for each craftsperson who touches the garment. When something is customized, we need to account for the additional operational time.
What can I expect during my Demi Bespoke or Custom Bridal appointment?
Our teams’ creative and artisanal expertise guides you from start to finish in creating a custom NOVAE RES design.
After booking the appointment, one of our client services team members will reach out to go over the details of your project.
In the first appointment (virtual or in person), you will meet the team and discuss the project in detail. We will take your measurements for a 3-D digital body mannequin to build a garment to your exact specifications. We will also show you fabric selections from our wide range during your initial intake meeting.
In the next meeting, we will present you with custom design sketches and final fabric suggestions.
If we move forward together, you will be presented with final details and a first toile of the dress will be prepared for fitting.
It usually takes 8-12 working weeks from the date the order is placed (timing may vary depending on fabric availability and other factors). For a detailed appointment structure, email us at hello@novaeres.co
Why are your clothes more expensive than corporate brands?
Paying real artisans, who live in the same city as our brand, who live at home with their families, and are not slaves, makes clothing more expensive.
When you buy something that is not traceable to who made it, it's most likely made by indentured slaves. Including some parts of Italy.
Our founder was tired of supporting a system that made a few asian factory owners and their families billionaires, while their workers were not being paid more than a monthly stipend that equated to pennies and lived in poverty away from family and friends.
These workers never see their families more than 1x a year, and live in a factory site dormitory, 12 to a room with a shared bathroom down the hall. This is the same for Fast fashion AND so-called “luxury brands”. Luxury is not made by slaves, period. Our workers earn more than a living wage and are paid based on their experience level. For mid-level workers that is 2-4x NYC minimum wage. For apprentices, that is 30% more than NYC minimum wage.
I saw something I love on your social media but can’t find it on the website?
Sometimes we show parts of custom styles on our site, or the development of new capsule collections for future drops and seasons. If you are interested in something you cannot find on our site, reach out to us and we can help.
What is your return policy?
For any garment from our regular collection or limited edition capsule collections , in our regular sizing we accept returns within 14 days, for brand credit only. Please see exact return policies and instructions here.
For made-to-order, made-to-measure, or demi bespoke styles; Due to the bespoke nature and custom details of these garments we are currently unable to accept returns. If there is an issue with the fit or anything regarding the garment that leaves you dissatisfied, please reach out and we’ll take the necessary steps to make it right.