Here’s a great article by Rain Dagala for MEG Magazine a few months back. It gives some good points on what to expect when you come over to a designer for a design consult.

WITH ALL DUE RESPECT
There’s a difference between a seamstress and a designer. A designer will make an outfit based on an agreed collaboration between the two of you. A seamstress will do an outfit solely based on what you asked her to create or duplicate.

PERSONAL MATTERS
It is best if the designer you will be working with has an aesthetic close to yours. Know what you like.

SIGNATURE LOOK
While generally, designers can be flexible in terms of design, most of them are known for a certain look, and you should be aware of that. It manages your expectations.

KNOCK KNOCK
While designers can be inspired by a certain runway look (bring pegs with you!), allow them to tweak the design for you. This is where their expertise comes in. If you want an exact same look as your peg, go to a seamstress instead.

THE PRICE YOU PAY
In the Philippines, a designer can be more flexible with the prices. Just open up about your budget and discuss it with them. When negotiating, make sure that the final price you settled at justifies the amount of work that will be done for you.

FIT TO A TEE
Allow the designer to take your measurements to ensure good fit.

LEAVE IT TO THE EXPERT
Say what you want to say politely, but listen to the designer’s advice. When he/she says that a certain cut, neckline or silhouette will not work for you, believe it.

LITTLE MISS PUNCTUALITY
Go to your fitting on time. Out of courtesy, if you can’t make it, make sure that you let the designer know in advance.

BASES COVERED
To have a better output, wearing an underwear that is closer to the actual thing you will put on when you wear your outfit is best. Bring heels as well.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE
Give the designer ample time to complete the dress, so that quality isn’t compromised. Apart from that, designers normally charge higher for rush work.