Saveable delivery triage
Shop for the clock you actually have.
A gorgeous dress that arrives after the event is not a match. Start with your deadline, then narrow by size, measurements, stock, and return eligibility.
Under 10 days: in-stock only.
Ignore broad promises such as “ships quickly.” Confirm that your exact size and color are in stock, check the dated arrival estimate for your ZIP code, and keep enough time for a try-on and return.
Two to six weeks: made-to-order may work.
Add production, transit, and alteration time. A four-week production estimate is not a four-week arrival promise. If the order is final sale, compare your measurements to the exact chart before checkout.
Six weeks or more: custom sizing may be realistic.
Custom measurements can solve a size-chart mismatch, but they do not remove production risk. Confirm the measurement method, cutoff date, remake policy, and whether custom orders can be returned.