Frequently Asked Questions

Ordering

How do I choose my size?

We recommend referring to our Petite Size Guide before placing your order. House of Arti garments are designed using our bespoke petite sizing system, which considers both your body measurements and height. Selecting the correct height category, Extra Petite or Petite, is just as important as choosing your garment size to achieve the intended fit.
If you are unsure which size is right for you, our Client Services team is happy to assist.

Can I change my order after placing it? 

Unfortunately, we are unable to make changes to orders once they have been placed. Orders are processed immediately through our system to ensure they are prepared and dispatched as quickly as possible.
Please review your order carefully before completing your purchase. 

How long does it take to process my order? 

Orders are typically processed within 2-4 business days before being dispatched.
During collection launches or promotional periods, processing times may be slightly longer.

Shipping 

Do you ship internationally? 

Yes. We proudly offer worldwide shipping.
At this time, we are unable to ship to the European Union, Ireland, or regions affected by active conflict or war. If you are unsure whether we can deliver to your location, please contact us before placing your order.
Our Shipping Policy

How long does delivery take? 

Estimated delivery times are:
  • South Africa: 4–7 business days
  • International: 4–10 business days

Delivery estimates begin once your order has been processed and dispatched.

Will I pay customs duties or taxes?

In most cases, the price you pay at checkout is your final payment. We cover applicable duties and taxes wherever possible.

However, some countries may impose additional customs charges, import fees, brokerage fees, or handling charges that are outside of our control. Any such fees remain the responsibility of the customer.

Returns & Exchanges

What is your returns policy?

We accept returns within 14 days of your order being delivered.

Returned garments must be unworn, unwashed, and in their original condition with all tags attached.

Returns should be shipped to our warehouse in South Africa. Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer.

Please note that the original shipping fee of ZAR 200 (approximately USD 11) is non-refundable.

Our Return & Refund Policy

Can I exchange for another size?

We do not offer direct exchanges.

If you require a different size, you may return your original item in accordance with our Returns Policy and place a new order for your preferred size through our online store.

What if my item arrives damaged?

Every House of Arti order is carefully inspected before leaving our warehouse and is shipped via FedEx Express for secure, priority handling.

Once your parcel has been handed to the shipping carrier, House of Arti cannot accept liability for damage that occurs during transit. If your parcel arrives visibly damaged, we recommend reporting the issue directly to FedEx at the time of delivery and contacting our Client Services team so we can assist where possible.

Product & Care

How should I care for my garment?

To preserve the quality and longevity of your garment, we recommend following these care instructions.

Our fabrics are pre-shrunk before cutting and sewing to minimise shrinkage after washing. Natural fibres may still experience slight movement, with an estimated shrinkage of approximately 5%.

Care Instructions

  • Cold machine wash with like colours.
  • Do not bleach
  • Do not tumble dry
  • Do not wring
  • Hang or lay flat to dry in the shade.
  • Iron on a low temperature on the reverse side
  • Dry clean if preferred.

What fabrics do you use?

We primarily work with natural fibres, selected for their comfort, breathability, and timeless quality.

Where a particular silhouette or occasion requires it, we may incorporate carefully selected synthetic fibres to achieve the desired structure, drape, durability, or performance. Every fabric is chosen intentionally to complement the design and ensure the garment performs as beautifully as it looks.

Are your collections limited?

Yes. Our collections are produced in small batches and limited production runs to maintain exceptional quality and reduce unnecessary overproduction.

This considered approach allows us to focus on craftsmanship rather than mass production. Once a style sells out, it may not be restocked for an extended period, or at all.

Sizing

What is the difference between Extra Petite and Petite?

At House of Arti, we recognise that not all petite women share the same proportions. A woman who is 1.45m has different fit requirements from someone who is 1.58m, yet most fashion brands group them into a single petite category.

To create a more precise fit, we developed two dedicated height ranges.

  • Extra Petite is designed for women between 1.40m and 1.49m (4'7.1"–4'11").
  • Petite is designed for women between 1.50m and 1.59m (4'11.1"–5'2.6").

Each height range is developed independently using its own pattern blocks, grading, and size guide, allowing every garment to maintain balanced proportions and a refined fit across different petite heights.

What height is House of Arti designed for?

House of Arti designs exclusively for women between 1.40m and 1.59m (4'7.1"–5'2.6").

Unlike traditional fashion brands that adapt garments designed for standard-height women, every House of Arti design begins with the proportions of a petite woman. This allows our garments to fit naturally across the shoulders, waist, sleeves, and overall silhouette.

What is bespoke petite sizing?

Our bespoke petite sizing system is the foundation of every House of Arti collection.

Over nine years, we developed a sizing methodology specifically for women between 1.40m and 1.59m, using custom-developed pattern blocks, specialised grading, digital pattern development, and equipment tailored to petite design.

Rather than simply shortening existing garments, every style is engineered around the proportions of a petite woman from the very beginning. This allows us to create luxury clothing that feels balanced, elegant, and intentionally tailored for shorter women.