FREQUENTLY-ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Mignonette Bridal? What designers do you carry?
Mignonette Bridal is the showroom of Chicago designer Kpoene’ Kofi-Nicklin. A visit to the workroom space lets you step into a tiny jewel box with a tightly-edited selection of gowns; brides can browse the gowns available or make an atelier appointment to discuss revamping an heirloom family gown into a modern masterpiece.
Where are your gowns made? How long does it take?
Mignonette is committed to creating all of our gowns in the US. Our materials come from the finest European lace and silk mills and are carefully sourced to ensure quality and exclusivity. We ask for 6 months to create a gown.
How much does a gown cost?
Our collection gowns range from $2,700-$10,000. Mignonette Reutiliser, our heirloom gown revamping service, begins at $2,200. Samples are $800-$2,600.
Do you provide alterations?
While we strive to ensure your best fit from the beginning, sometimes alterations are needed. After 8 years of providing incredible alterations to Chicago's brides, we proudly debuted our sister company Ette, The Wedding Tailor in 2018! If tailoring is what your gown needs, click over to Ette to have a look around!
I’ve never done this before -What is the process like? Can I just come in and choose a design?
Mignonette’s showroom features collection gowns for brides who want to choose from existing designs. We also offer a constantly-updated selection of sample gowns for brides who find a one-of-a-kind treasure.The process is simple - come in, get comfortable, and tell us about your perfect day. Once you choose a design, we ask for 5-6 months to create your gown. When the gown is finished, you will be directed to a qualified alterationist (We recommend Ette) for tailoring.
What is heirloom revamping? Why is it called "Reutiliser"?
Is there a vintage wedding gown in your family that you would love to wear, but you can’t imagine wearing as-is? Bring it to us and find out how we can transform an outdated but beloved gown into a modern design that preserves your heritage and reflects your personality! “Reutiliser” means “reuse” in French.
I cannot pronounce “Bricolage” either. What is it?
Bricolage is a term coined in the early 20th century to mean “making something from whatever is at hand”. It was such a perfect term for this new sustainable fabric destash project that we just had to use the term. Think of “hodge-podge” and you’ll have it right.
What sizes do you offer?
Our samples range between 4-12. Please contact us if you require a particular size as we are happy to accommodate! We are actively working to offer a broader size range so we can offer our designs to more brides.
How do I make an appointment? Can I walk in?
Because we want to take time getting to know each bride, we require that you make an appointment. Appointments are 45 minutes to 1 hour and we ask that you not bring more than 1 person so that we can get to know you without distractions. Not to mention, the showroom is tiny, so more than 2 people won't have anywhere to sit.
Are Ette and Mignonette in the same location? I’m confused.
Yes, Mignonette’s workroom is located at 1747 W Belmont Avenue, which is also the home of Ette the Wedding Tailor. This means that when you step in for an appointment, you’ll get to see where the magic happens!
Does bespoke mean you will copy a gown I want but cannot afford?
Sur Measure ('to measure" in French) is our bespoke service. We adore creating couture gowns with our brides, and this option is for brides who would like to work with our designer on a truly one-of-a-kind piece. We do not copy other designer’s work.
Who is Kpoene’?
Kpoene' is the Creative Director and founder of Mignonette Bridal and Ette The Wedding Tailor. In a past life she was a retail and museum buyer. She is also the founder of Craft Bar with Etsy Labs; She sometimes writes guest advice columns on wedding gowns and planning.
