Atelier Édition is a permanent line of refined special-occasion wear from Mel Rose Couture , designed specifically for women over 40, produced in Melbourne, and available by pre-order in limited numbers. Beginning with evening gowns and growing over time to include cocktail dresses, evening suiting, and separates, it carries the same design sensibility as the bespoke studio.

Women over 40 who want elegant, considered occasion wear that was designed with their body and their life stage in mind.

Bespoke commissions are completely individual, designed from scratch for one woman, involving multiple consultations and fittings. Atelier Édition is a ready-to-wear line, available in set sizes and designs, with a simpler process and a shorter timeline. The bespoke studio continues alongside it.

Atelier Édition is available in sizes 10 to 24.

Every piece is cut from a pattern block developed specifically for the proportions of a woman over 40. The bust point is dropped, the waistline is adjusted, and the block accounts for where the body actually is, not where a standard size chart assumes it to be. A detailed size guide will be available when pre-orders open.

A size guide with clear body measurements will be provided when the pre-order window opens. If you are between sizes or unsure, a studio sample appointment is available to help you make the right decision before ordering.

Yes. Sample size16 are available to try on at the Bulleen studio by appointment only. A booking fee applies, which is redeemable against the cost of your order if you go ahead. To arrange an appointment, please get in touch via the contact page.

In some cases, yes. Minor design modifications may be accommodated for an additional fee. Please get in touch before placing your order to discuss what is possible.

The designs are offered in the colourways and fabrics available for each release. If you would like to explore an alternative, please get in touch. Depending on the request and the timing, this may be possible for an additional fee.

When a pre-order window opens, you select your design, colour-way, and size, and place your order. The window stays open for approximately four weeks, then closes. Your garment goes into production and is delivered within approximately six to eight weeks. Full payment is required at the time of ordering.

The first Atelier Édition release is currently in development. Join the waitlist to be notified when pre-orders open.

Yes. Pre-orders reopen with each new release. The designs are enduring, but colourways, fabrics, and details may evolve between releases, making each one its own. If you love what you see in a particular release, that is the time to order it.

A size guide is provided to help you order with confidence. If minor adjustments are needed once your garment arrives, an alterations service is available at an additional cost. For pre-order clients who can visit the studio, a complimentary fit appointment is included to ensure everything sits exactly right.

Minor fit adjustments — hem length, seam refinements — are available as an add-on service. More significant alterations are assessed individually and quoted separately. Please get in touch to discuss your needs.

Absolutely. Atelier Édition is available to clients across Australia. For interstate clients who would like fitting support, a Zoom appointment can be arranged.

From the first pattern line to the finished garment, Atelier Édition is made entirely in Australia, with the majority of the work taking place here in Melbourne. Local patternmakers, local production, local hands on every seam.

For most custom pieces, I recommend getting in touch six to twelve months before your event. For Mothers of the Bride or Groom, beginning around six to twelve months out generally works best. This allows time for design development, fabric sourcing, fittings, and considered decision-making without being constrained by the calendar. For custom bridal gowns, I recommend allowing twelve to eighteen months where possible. Bridal work requires longer lead times due to the complexity of design, fabric sourcing, fittings, and the overall scope of the project. I take on a limited number of custom brides each year, so early enquiries are essential. Six months is usually the latest practical window for custom work. Anything shorter than that significantly limits options and flexibility.

Availability varies throughout the year. I work as a sole dressmaker, and every piece is designed, made, and fitted by me personally. Because of this, I take on a limited number of custom clients at any one time. The best way to understand whether working together is possible is to reach out early and, if appropriate, book a brief initial chat. You can book your initial chat here through the link below:

I don’t offer rush or expedited custom work as a standard service. Custom pieces are shaped by process and capacity rather than speed. When timelines are very short, design options become restricted and decisions are driven by availability rather than choice, which isn’t how I prefer to work. If your event is approaching quickly, I’m always happy to advise whether custom is realistic or suggest alternative options.

The process begins with an initial phone conversation, followed by an in-person design consultation at my Bulleen studio if we decide to move forward. From there, the process typically includes: design development fabric selection a toile to refine fit and proportion multiple fittings final adjustments and finishing Each stage is approached thoughtfully, with time allowed for refinement. You can read more about my process here:

Most custom pieces involve multiple fittings, including a toile fitting and several garment fittings. The exact number depends on the design, fabric, and how the garment develops, but fittings are an essential part of achieving a good result and are built into the process.

All custom work is done by me - Mel. From design and pattern-making through to fittings and finishing, you work directly with me throughout the entire process. There is no production line and no handover, which allows for continuity, care, and attention to detail at every stage

I welcome inspiration and reference images, however I don’t recreate or copy existing designs. Each piece is developed specifically for the client, their body, and the event. Inspiration helps guide the direction, but the final design is always original and tailored to you.

For many women over 40, custom can make a meaningful difference. Bodies change, priorities change, and comfort becomes just as important as appearance. Custom allows the fit, proportion, and structure of a garment to be designed around your body as it is now, rather than adjusted from a standard size. This often results in a piece that wears better on the day and feels appropriate for the occasion.

Body changes are expected and planned for. Fittings are scheduled throughout the process to refine fit as the garment develops. Starting early allows flexibility to make adjustments closer to the event if needed.

That’s very common. If you’re still in the early stages, learning about timelines and understanding what’s involved is often the best place to start. The initial phone conversation is designed to be exploratory and informative, not a commitment. Many clients begin by planning ahead and deciding later whether custom feels like the right choice.

Custom work is an investment and is best suited to clients who value fit, quality, and thoughtful design. Pricing varies depending on the design, fabric, and complexity of the piece. All investment details are discussed transparently during the initial conversation, once I understand what you’re looking for.

I most often work with: Mothers of the Bride or Groom Women attending formal events, galas, and milestone celebrations Brides looking for one of a kind gowns Clients who value planning ahead, fit, and quality Women who prefer a considered process rather than rushed decisions Custom work is best suited to clients who are comfortable allowing time for the process to unfold.

Yes, I do create custom wedding dresses, however I take on a limited number of bridal projects each year. Bridal work requires longer lead times and a significant time commitment, so early enquiries are essential.

Yes, I do work with interstate clients when timing and availability allow. Because fittings are an important part of the process, this requires careful planning and flexibility. This is best discussed during an initial conversation.

My studio is located in Bulleen, Victoria. All consultations and fittings take place by appointment only.

If you’re planning ahead and would like to explore custom work, the first step is to book a brief phone chat. This allows us to discuss timing, availability, and whether custom is the right fit for you. If you’re still in the early stages, you may find it helpful to read through my blog and planning resources to better understand timelines and what’s involved.