Lingerie & Bespoke FAQ Guide
Everyday Luxury, Silk Quality & Care
Q1: Is silk lingerie and sleepwear worth the price?
A: Yes, silk lingerie is a long-term investment in comfort, durability, and skin health. Unlike synthetic fabrics, pure Mulberry silk is a natural protein fiber that breathes with the body, regulates temperature, and resists wear when properly cared for. Maria Callisto pieces are crafted in London from high-grade silk charmeuse and chiffon, delivering a low cost-per-wear over years of use.
Q2: How do I wash and care for pure silk sleepwear?
A: Pure silk should be hand-washed in cold water using a gentle, pH-neutral silk detergent. Gently press out excess water with a towel without wringing or twisting, then lay flat to dry out of direct sunlight. If needed, iron on a low setting using a pressing cloth on the reverse side.
Q3: What makes Maria Callisto different from other luxury lingerie brands?
A: Maria Callisto is a London-based independent brand founded by a woman of Nigerian heritage with a background in pattern-making. Operating at the intersection of luxury and sustainability, 70% of Maria Callisto pieces are handcrafted from reclaimed silk offcuts donated by UK bridal atelier Sassi Holford. Every piece is made in small batches or crafted to measure.
Q4: Can I wear a silk camisole as outerwear?
A: Yes, Maria Callisto silk camisoles are designed to transition seamlessly from bedroom lounging to daywear and evening styling. Crafted from opaque, heavy-drape silk charmeuse with delicate lace detailing, they layer invisibly beneath blazers or pair with denim and tailored trousers for a refined look.
Bridal Lingerie "Something Blue"
Q5: What should I wear under my wedding dress?
A: Your foundation garment depends on your gown's silhouette. Fitted gowns require a bias-cut silk slip or smooth chemise in silk charmeuse to avoid bulk. A-line gowns pair with silk underskirts, while strapless or low-back dresses suit boned camisoles or convertible silk bodysuits. Maria Callisto offers bespoke consultations to design foundation pieces specifically tailored to your gown.
Q6: What is a modern "Something Blue" alternative to a garter?
A: Modern brides are replacing single-use garters with luxurious, custom-dyed royal navy silk knickers, chemises, or embroidered robes. Handcrafted silk intimatewear serves as a stylish "Something Blue" on your wedding morning that transitions effortlessly into your honeymoon trousseau and everyday lingerie drawer.
Q7: What is the difference between bridal lingerie and regular lingerie?
A: Bridal lingerie is engineered for double duty: it must sit invisibly beneath a wedding gown without showing seam lines, remain comfortable during long hours, and look striking in morning prep photographs. Maria Callisto bridal pieces utilize flat seams, covered silk elastics, and high-grade natural silks designed to be cherished and worn long after the wedding day.
Bespoke Consultation, Made-to-Measure & Sizing
Q8: How does a custom lingerie consultation work?
A: A custom consultation begins with an online inquiry or WhatsApp message. A designer reviews your style preferences, occasion, and measurements (which can be taken remotely). A mock-up or design outline is reviewed before your final piece is hand-finished in our London atelier. The process typically takes 6 to 10 weeks.
Q9: Can I get bespoke lingerie made to measure if I cannot visit the studio?
A: Yes, Maria Callisto offers a completely remote made-to-measure service for UK and international clients. Guidance is provided for taking accurate measurements at home, fabric swatches are discussed digitally, and mock-up fittings are coordinated via post and video consultation. Contact us on WhatsApp at +44 7435 752211 to begin.
Q10: Do you charge extra for custom size adjustments?
A: No, custom sizing adjustments are provided at no additional charge. Because every body is unique, Maria Callisto offers bespoke measurement adjustments across all core sleepwear and lingerie collections to ensure a drape that never digs in or restricts movement.
Sustainability & Ethical Production
Q11: Is Maria Callisto a sustainable luxury brand?
A: Yes, sustainability is central to the Maria Callisto production model. 70% of the collection is crafted from reclaimed silk offcuts donated by UK bridal atelier Sassi Holford—diverting high-grade fabric from landfills. All pieces are produced in small batches in London to eliminate overproduction.
Q12: What is reclaimed silk and why is it used in lingerie?
A: Reclaimed silk refers to surplus fabric, remnant rolls, or offcuts saved from fashion atelier waste streams. Because intimatewear requires smaller, precise fabric pieces, reclaimed silk is an ideal material choice. It allows Maria Callisto to create luxury garments without producing new virgin silk.