Frequently asked questions

What are FAQs?

At the FAQs section, you can find the answers to most commonly asked questions. It also helps you to navigate the website smoothly.
Where is Prima Materia based? Is it a big company?

Prima Materia is based in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. it is not a big company but a one-woman business. I, Ikuko, do designing, patterning, material sourcing, production and other things on my own. Please read the About section.
Do you have a physical shop?

No. Prima Materia is 100% online based. In this way, I can keep the running cost and product prices low.
What payment options does Prima Materia accept?

Prima Materia accepts most major credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, iDeal and Paypal. The payment is secure.
What are the shipping costs?

Prima Materia offers flat rate shipping and free shipping, which varies depending on the destination. Please see the Shipping and Delivery page.
What are shipping options?

All parcels are dispatched via PostNL Domestic and International and come with tracking numbers. They can be tracked on the PostNL website and the websites of the postal services of the country of the delivery addresses. The Universal Tracking website may also be useful.
What language does Prima Materia use?

The default language of this website is the UK English. If you choose a language from the language menu, main texts are auto-translated and may be far from perfect. Additionally, I am Japanese-English bilingual. Please contact me in any language! I will use online translation to read your messages and reply in English or Japanese.
Can Prima Materia custom-make leotards and dancewear?

Yes. Customisation and personalisation are what make Prima Materia stand out from the crowd. You can easily customise leotards, skirts and other products from the regular product listings. If you need full customisation, please read the Full Personalisation section and get in touch.
Are Prima Materia leotards lined?

Yes. The price for all custom leotards includes one layer of bust panel lining. You can also purchase a full front lining, additional layer for more supports for the bust area as an add-on. Ready-to-wear leotards come with bust panel linings or full front linings.
Can Prima Materia custom-make plus sizes?

Yes! You can customise your sizes from regular custom product listings. Ready-to-wear items cannot be altered but I can always make similar items from scratch.
Do Prima Materia skirts come with stretch waists?

Yes. So they sit well on your waist and feel very comfortable. Wrap skirts come with stretch waist ribbon ties. Georgette and chiffon fabrics for the skirt part do not stretch. Stretch mesh skirts have excellent stretch properties in the waist and everywhere. But do not pull them deliberately violently. Tulle romantic tutus come with stretch waist bands. Tulle fabric has some stretch properties.
My body over-crosses more than one size. What do I do?

Please choose the S-M-L custom or XL custom sizes and make sure to note your body measurements.
The customisation I want is not listed. What do I do?

Get in touch and let me know what you need. Adding a layer to a skirt or full customisation, I will be as flexible as possible. We discuss prices upon request.
How long does a custom order take?

It usually takes 2-4 weeks to make a custom-order item or items. Ombre and luxe prints may take a little longer. If you order a ready-to-wear item and a customised item in one order, please allow for the lead time for the customised item.
I am not a ballerina. Can I use Prima Materia items for other dance?

Yes, of course! My products are used by social dancers, aerial performers, ice dancers, pole dancers, musical dancers and many others.
Are Prima Materia products washable?

Yes, definitely! Ballet and dance are hard sports and everyone sweat a lot. Leotards, skirts, T-shirts and handbags are machine washable. I recommend using laundry nets and wash them in gentle cycle at low temperatures with similar colours. Keep them separate from hooks and sharp objects. Tulle skirts are hand washable. Do not use vodka! I recommend hang them dry or dry them flat. Georgette and chiffon skirts can be ironed at synthetics temperatures. Do not iron mesh, tulle and waist ties. For custom made products, I will communicate with you about washing.
Does Prima Materia accept returns and exchanges?

I am afraid not, due to the nature of my products. However, if you are not satisfied with the product, I am more than happy to send you a replacement or issue a store credit. Please read the store policy section.
I received a faulty/wrong item. What do I do?

Please accept my apology. I am more than happy to send you a replacement. Please contact me immediately.
An item is missing from my order. What do I do?

Please accept my apology. I will try to send you the missing product quickly. Please contact me immediately.
My order never arrived. What do I do?

Sincere apologies. It rarely happens but in past, a couple of orders did go missing. Please see the Shipping and Delivery section and contact me after you have waited the specified time. I am happy to send you a replacement as quickly as possible