FAQ - Michelle Palmer Designs | Luxury Fashion Made in NYC

MICHELLE PALMER DESIGNS - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

ABOUT OUR BRAND

What is Michelle Palmer Designs?

Michelle Palmer Designs is a small-batch luxury womenswear brand based in New York City. We specialize in custom lace jumpsuits, pants and tops; elevated cargo pants; silk blouses; lace dresses; and garments that combine silk, lace and more; all designed and made in Manhattan's historic Garment District. Every piece is produced in limited runs of 25-50 units using premium materials including custom lace designed by Michelle and produced by Klauber Bros. (established 1859), and $60-$70 per yard silk sourced locally in NYC.

Where are these garments made?

Every Michelle Palmer garment is designed and made entirely in New York City's Garment District. We work with skilled artisans who have decades of experience in garment construction. All cutting, sewing, and finishing happens locally—we never manufacture overseas.

What makes Michelle Palmer Designs different from other fashion brands?

Three things set us apart:

  1. Custom lace that exists nowhere else - We design exclusive lace patterns produced by Klauber Bros., a heritage lace house established in 1859. Our poppy flower lace pattern is completely unique to Michelle Palmer Designs.
  2. Small-batch production - We produce in runs of 20-50 pieces, not thousands. This means exclusivity, quality control, and lower environmental impact.
  3. Expert backing - Our production partner has 30+ years of Garment District experience, and we collaborate with Klauber's head representative who has 40 years in the industry—I'm the first designer he's ever personally invested in.

Who designs Michelle Palmer pieces?

Michelle Palmer, our founder and designer, has been perfecting her craft for over 30 years. She began drawing at age 9, sewing at 10, trained in England and at FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology), and spent years creating bespoke headpieces worn by celebrities before launching her ready-to-wear collection in 2025.

ORDERS & SHIPPING

How long does it take to receive my order?

Most pieces ship within 3-5 business days. For made-to-order pieces or items requiring specific sizing, delivery takes around 10 business days (2 weeks). We'll email you as soon as your order ships with tracking information. We're getting faster all the time too!

Why does it take this long? Because we make pieces to order in small batches in NYC, not pull them from a warehouse. This ensures quality and reduces waste.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes! We ship to most countries worldwide. International shipping typically takes 7-14 business days depending on your location. Customs duties and taxes are the responsibility of the customer and vary by country.

How much does shipping cost?

United States:

  • Free Economy shipping for orders with a minimum order total of $50.00 weighing 0-5 lbs

     

    For orders over 5 lbs, a $19.90 Economy rate applies, and Standard shipping runs $6.90–$9.90 depending on weight.

International:

  • we offer carrier-calculated rates via USPS and DHL Express

Can I track my order?

Yes! Once your order ships, you'll receive a tracking number via email. You can track your package through our shipping carrier's website or contact us at mpalmer(at)michelle-palmer.com if you have questions.

SIZING & FIT

How do Michelle Palmer pieces fit?

Our pieces are designed to fit true to size with a tailored, feminine silhouette. Each product page includes detailed fit information including:

  • How the piece runs (true to size, runs small, runs large)
  • Fabric stretch and drape characteristics

We recommend checking the size chart on each product page before ordering. 

For the cargo pants, I like to wear a medium, even though I wear a small in pretty much everything else. Just sayin'!

Do you offer plus sizes?

Currently, most of our pieces are available in sizes XS-XL. As we grow and discover who our customers are and what their needs are, we may expand this range.

Can I get custom sizing?

For certain pieces, yes! Because we make to order in NYC, we can sometimes accommodate custom measurements for an additional fee. Email us with your request and we'll let you know if it's possible for your chosen piece.

MATERIALS & CARE

What materials do you use?

We use premium, natural materials sourced primarily from Manhattan's Garment District:

  • Silk - Charmeuse, crepe de chine, and back crepe sateen at $30-$65 per yard
  • Heritage lace - mostly from Klauber Bros. Lace (est. 1859), some designed by us and only available here
  • Japanese linen - Premium weight, breathable, gets softer with wear
  • Japanese denim - Lightweight, superior drape and hand feel

All fabrics are chosen for quality, longevity, and how they feel against the skin.

How do I care for silk and lace pieces?

Silk pieces:

  • Dry clean recommended, OR
  • Hand wash in cold water with gentle detergent
  • Hang to dry (never wring or twist)
  • Iron on low heat while slightly damp, or steam

Lace pieces:

  • Dry clean only for custom lace pieces
  • Store flat or hanging to prevent creasing
  • Avoid contact with rough surfaces that could snag

Linen and denim:

  • Machine wash cold on gentle cycle
  • Hang or lay flat to dry
  • Embrace natural wrinkles (it's part of linen's charm!)
  • Steam or iron on medium heat if desired

Detailed care instructions are included with every order.

Are Michelle Palmer pieces sustainable?

As much as possible. A word from the designer: I'm obsessed with reducing waste. That's tricky in fashion. But when I choose fabrics, I try to make them natural (cotton, silk), or from recycled materials - as long as that doesn't reduce quality or longevity. It's tricky but I have a dream of being a force for a more environmentally friendly fashion industry.

Our commitment to sustainability includes:

  • Small-batch production (no overproduction, minimal waste)
  • Made-to-order model (we make what's ordered, not what might sell)
  • Local manufacturing (NYC production reduces carbon footprint)
  • Quality over quantity (pieces designed to last many years, not seasons)
  • Natural materials (silk, linen, cotton lace vs. synthetics)
  • Eco-friendly packaging (recyclable and minimal)

We're not perfect, but we're committed to making fashion that doesn't cost the earth.

RETURNS & EXCHANGES

What is your return policy?

At Michelle Palmer, each garment is crafted to reflect elegance, precision, and luxury. We want you to feel completely confident in your purchase. For this reason, we offer a limited return and exchange window to allow you time to confirm that your item fits properly and meets your expectations.

Return & Exchange Window
Customers may request a return or exchange within 7 days of the shipment delivery date, as confirmed by the carrier’s tracking information. This period is intended to allow you to try on your garment and ensure the fit, style, and appearance are exactly as you envisioned.

Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a return or exchange, all items must meet the following conditions:

  • The request must be submitted within 7 days of delivery.

  • Items must be unworn, unwashed, and unaltered.

  • Items must be free of stains, odors (including perfume or smoke), and damage.

  • All original tags, packaging, and protective coverings must be intact.

  • The garment must be returned in its original condition.

Michelle Palmer reserves the right to refuse any return or exchange that does not meet these requirements.

Exchanges
Exchanges are permitted for size adjustments or an alternate item of equal or greater value, subject to product availability. If the new item is of greater value, the price difference must be paid at the time of exchange.

Returns
Approved returns will be issued as store credit or a refund to the original payment method. Store credit will be delivered electronically and does not expire. Original shipping fees are non-refundable.

Return Process

  1. Email our customer service team at michelle@michelle-palmer.com within 7 days of delivery.

  2. Include your order number, reason for return or exchange, and photos if applicable.

  3. Once approved, return instructions will be provided.

  4. Items must be shipped back within 48 hours of approval.

Customers are responsible for return shipping costs. We strongly recommend using a trackable and insured shipping method, as Michelle Palmer is not responsible for lost or damaged return packages.

Final Sale Items
The following items are considered Final Sale and are not eligible for return or exchange:

  • Custom or made-to-order garments

  • Sale or discounted items

  • Accessories and undergarments

Quality Assurance
Each Michelle Palmer garment is carefully inspected before shipment. Any claims of defects or damages must be reported within 24 hours of delivery and include photographic documentation.

PRICING & PAYMENT

Why are Michelle Palmer pieces priced the way they are?

Our pricing reflects the true cost of quality:

  • Premium materials - $60-$70/yard silk and custom lace aren't cheap
  • NYC labor - We pay fair wages to skilled Garment District artisans
  • Small-batch production - Lower volume = higher per-piece costs

A Michelle Palmer silk blouse costs $428-$430 because the fabric alone costs $60, labor is $66, and we're producing 50 pieces—not 5,000.

Do you ever have sales?

Occasionally! Sign up for our email list to receive 10% off and be notified of seasonal sales, new arrivals, and exclusive offers. We typically offer promotions around:

  • Spring/Summer collection launches
  • Holiday season
  • Special occasions

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept:

  • All major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover)
  • Shop Pay
  • Apple Pay
  • Google Pay
  • PayPal

Payment plans available: Select items qualify for Shop Pay Installments or Afterpay, allowing you to split your purchase into 4 interest-free payments.

WHOLESALE & PARTNERSHIPS

Do you sell to boutiques?

Yes! We work with select boutiques that share our values around quality, craft, and customer experience. If you're a boutique owner interested in carrying Michelle Palmer Designs, please email mpalmer@michelle-palmer.com for our wholesale line sheet and terms.

Wholesale benefits:

  • Competitive wholesale pricing
  • Made-to-order production (no inventory risk)
  • Marketing support (lookbook images, product descriptions)
  • Direct designer access for styling questions

Can I become an affiliate or brand ambassador?

We're always looking for authentic brand advocates! If you love Michelle Palmer Designs and have an engaged audience (Instagram, TikTok, blog, etc.), we'd love to hear from you.

Email us at mpalmer@michelle-palmer.com with:

  • Your platform and follower count
  • Why you love our designs
  • Ideas for collaboration

We offer affiliate commissions, gifted pieces for content creators, and special discount codes for your audience.

TECHNICAL & WEBSITE

I'm having trouble with the website. Who can I contact?

We're sorry you're experiencing issues! Please email us at mpalmer@michelle-palmer.com with:

  • What you were trying to do
  • What happened instead
  • Screenshots if possible
  • Your device and browser (iPhone Safari, desktop Chrome, etc.)

We'll respond within 24 hours and fix the issue as quickly as possible.

Do you have a showroom I can visit?

We have a private showroom in NYC's Garment District available by appointment only. If you'd like to see and feel the collection in person, email us at mpalmer@michelle-palmer.com to schedule a visit.

Showroom address: 265 West 37th Street, Suite 2106, New York, NY 10018 (my design studio!)

How do I contact customer service?

Email: mpalmer@michelle-palmer.com
Response time: Within 24 hours (usually much faster)
or call 1-720-210-7476

We're a small team, so we read and respond to every message personally.

CUSTOM & SPECIAL ORDERS

Can you make something custom for me?

Depending on the request, yes! We've created custom pieces for:

  • Brides and wedding parties
  • Special events and red carpet
  • Custom colorways of existing designs
  • Slight modifications to fit or length

Email us at mpalmer@michelle-palmer.com with your vision, timeline, and budget. Custom orders require a 50% deposit and typically take 2-3 weeks.

Do you still make headpieces?

Michelle's original headpiece work (under the Aviatrix name) is available for special commissions only. If you're interested in a bespoke headpiece for a wedding, photoshoot, or special event, email us at mpalmer@michelle-palmer.com for availability and pricing. My old website is: www.aviatrixnyc.com and my headpiece/artistic instagram is @michelle_palmer_nyc

PRESS & MEDIA

Has Michelle Palmer been featured in the press?

Yes! Michelle Palmer Designs has been worn by:

  • Gayle Perry (@gaylestyle) - Former VP at Donna Karan & Calvin Klein

Michelle's earlier work (bespoke headpieces) was worn by celebrities and featured in:

Tush Magazine 20th Anniversary Edition cover on Julia Fox
Bazaar Vietnam Magazine 
Theophilio NYFW SS 2026 runway on supermodel Alton Mason
Cesar Galindo NYFW FW 2026 and SS 2027 runways
Perfect Health Magazine on Crystal Waters
Vogue.com multiple times
...and on many more performers and in many shows in NYC for the last 12 years!

For press inquiries, email mpalmer@michelle-palmer.com

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

We're here to help! Email us at mpalmer@michelle-palmer.com and we'll get back to you within 24 hours.

Follow us on Instagram @michelle_palmer_design for behind-the-scenes content, new arrivals, and styling inspiration.