FAQ

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Q: How much is shipping?
A: These dresses are heavy starting at 1.6 lbs for the Sakura Short! Here are our current flat rate shipping rates based on country:

Canada: $10.88 + $3 for each additional item
USA: $15.88 + $3 for each additional item
Europe / South America / Asia: $68.88 + $8 for each additional item
Australia / New Zealand / Africa: $78.88 + $8 for each additional item

For other international orders, please contact us for a shipping quote prior to ordering.

Q: How long will it take my order to arrive?

A: All orders are shipped from our warehouse in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The shipping time can vary depending on customs, holidays and time of year, but typically ground shipping times are:

Regional Toronto, ON, Canada Area - 3 to 5 business days
Domestic Canada - 4 to 9 business days
United States - 4 to 9 business days*
International - 10 to 14 business days*

*please note that quoted shipping time for US and International orders do NOT include potential time the package is held at customs.

Q: I am outside of North America, why is shipping so much more for me?

A: Basic shipping to countries outside of North America has proven to be unreliable with most packages either arriving extremely late or in a few occasions never arriving at all. In order to ensure that the dresses are properly tracked and arrive as scheduled, we are shipping all packages to international countries via Canada Post's Xpresspost International shipping. The good news is that your package will arrive between 10-14 business days as opposed to 4-6 weeks! If you wish to pay less for shipping and are willing to assume the risks with basic shipping, please contact us and we'll make the necessary arrangements but note that Henkaa will assume no responsibility once the package has been dropped off with Canada Post.

Q: I am shipping to the USA or an international destination will I be charged duty on my package?

A: All of our products are either made in Canada or the US, so for shipments to North America, you should NOT be charged duty on your purchase based on the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). However, the rules may differ from state to state.

For international orders, please check your state and country. Unfortunately, Henkaa will not be responsible for any duties, taxes, tariffs or additional charges that are levied at the border.

Q: Will I be charged taxes on my Canadian order?

A: Yes, you will be charged the applicable tax rate in your province of residence. The tax rates are as follows:

Q: Will I be charged taxes on my US or International order?

A: No, there are no taxes charged on US or International orders.

Q: What material is the dress made of?

A: The dress is made of a polyester and spandex knit material which is stretchy and machine washable. It does have a slight metallic sheen to it and is very soft and comfortable on the skin.

Q: How do I wash the dress?

A: We recommend that you hand wash the dress but it also machine washable. If you choose to machine wash, we recommend that you put the dress in a laundry bag and wash it on the delicate cycle. Hang to dry.

Q: My dress is wrinkled, what do you recommend I do?

A: We recommend using a steamer to get the wrinkles out of the dress. If you don't have access to a steamer, you can hang the dress and usually the weight of the fabric will allow the wrinkles to fall out. Another option is to hang the dress in the washroom while taking a hot shower and allowing the steam to work out the wrinkles.

Q: Do you offer fabric swatches?

A: Yes, we do offer fabric swatches for most of our in stock fabric colours. Please note that due to the overwhelming number of requests for swatches, we now provide them as orders for a nominal cost of $2 for each color which includes all processing, postage and handling fees. Click here to order swatches - there is no limit to the number you can order.

*Please note that swatches should be used primarily for colour verfication purposes as a small piece of fabric does not accurately represent how the entire dress feels and flows.

Q: What are dye lots and what should I be aware of?

A: A dye lot identifies fabric that received its coloration in the same vat at the same time. Slight differences in temperature, dyeing time, and other factors can result in slightly different shades of the same color between different dye lots of otherwise identical production. This is an unavoidable occurrence when using fabrics that are dyed.

At Henkaa, we purchase multiple rolls of fabric from the same dye lot in order to ensure we have large quantities of matching dresses and tubes available for customers at any given time. Once the fabric has been consumed, the next batch of dresses and tubes will be made from fabric of a different dye lot.

Where possible, please place bridal party orders at least 3 months before the wedding date. We fulfill orders as they come, so to ensure the best chance for exact matches, we recommend that bridal parties submit their orders at the same time so Henkaa can take measures to ensure that all dresses are shipped from the same dye lot.

For example, a wedding party has 4 bridesmaids and 3 of the girls order their dresses 6 months before the wedding, however, the last bridesmaid doesn't order her dress until 2 months before the wedding. In this case, because of the amount of time that has passed, Henkaa cannot guarantee that the last dress that was ordered will be an exact match to the other 3 that were shipped earlier.

Q: There's a color I want but is not available on your site. Can I submit a color request?

A: We are always looking to expand our offerings in terms of colors and styles and we welcome your feedback. Due to manufacturing requirements we are unable to take custom orders, however, we track all requests for colors that we do not currently offer and if there is enough interest amongst our customers, it is highly possible that we will add the color. Please contact us for more details.

Q: What is the length of the short and long Sakura Convertible Dress and where does each of them fall respectively?

A: The short version is 27'' long from the chest panel and typically falls around the knee (just below, at, or just above depending on height).

The long version is 46'' in length from the chest panel (19'' longer than the short version). With no alterations or shortening of the dress, the longer version is suitable for heights in the range of 5'4 to 5'8 with 2'' - 4'' heels or up to 5'10 with flats.

There are different ways you can wrap and wear the convertible dress to make it shorter or longer to suit individual height requirements.

PLEASE NOTE: if you are taller and find the short version "too short" and are attempting to purchase a long dress to cut it, please note that due to the construction of the long dress, the hip and thigh area is more fitted than the short version and it may not fall or drape as nicely. Contact us for more information before proceeding.

Q: I am a shorter or smaller sized lady and my dress is too long for me - is it difficult to shorten it?

A: The dress has raw edges so it is very easily shortened by cutting it and it does not need to be hemmed. While you can do this yourself with fabric scissors we do recommend that you get it professionally cut.

Q: Is the Sakura Infinity / Convertible Dress really one size fits most? I don't see how someone who is a size 0 can fit into the same dress as someone who is a size 12!

A: Yes, the dress really is one size fits most (size 0 to 14). The design of the dress makes this possible since the straps are wrapped and tied to fit around your body size. Of course if you are smaller framed, then you have to wrap it a few times more and vice-versa. Please take a look at our video that addresses the "one size" question.

Oh and because the dress is one size fits most, it's the perfect gift for all the ladies in your life - you can't get the size wrong! Please take a look at our photo gallery to see the diversity of customers we've had wear the Sakura Convertible Dress!

Note that if you are around size 12 to 14 with a fuller bust and/or waistline, we do recommend that you consider a size C/D since the straps are longer which allows more flexibility with styling options. If you are unsure, it maybe be best to go a size up.

Q: Do you offer plus size dresses?

A: Good news - due to popular demand, the Sakura Convertible Dress now comes in a plus size C/D version that fits dress sizes 14 - 24 in a limited number of colours. If you are around size 12 to 14 with a fuller bust and/or waistline, we do recommend that you consider a size C/D since the straps are longer which allows more flexibility with styling options. If you are unsure, it maybe be best to go a size up.

Please note that we currently only have short size C/D Sakura dresses. The long version may be available in a limited number of colors as a custom order. Please inquire for more information.

Q: I'm getting married and would like to use this as my bridesmaid dress. Do you think this is dressy enough and have other people used it before?

A: There are actually quite a few brides who have used the Sakura Convertible Dress for their bridesmaids (if you are one of them and have any pictures, please send them!). The Infinity / Convertible Dress actually has a slight metallic sheen to it, which makes it a little more dressy and looks great in pictures. The most awesome thing about wearing our convertible dresses is that each girl in your wedding party can wear it a different way that flatters her own body type and/or all the girls can wrap the dress the same way. You could even change the style from day to night - it's all up to you. Best of all, the girls could surely make use of the dress after the wedding so it also makes a perfect (and inexpensive) bridesmaid gift. Look out for our bridal section which is coming soon.

Q: I'm going to use the Sakura Convertible Dress for my bridesmaids, but I'm having a hard time deciding between the short and long versions. Any suggestions?

A: It is a hard decision between the short and the long version because they're both great choices. A few things to consider are the height of your bridesmaids, how formal the wedding is and the time of year.

If you have a bridesmaid that's very tall (5'11 +), then the long dress might be too short for her or if one of the girls is very short (5'2'' -), then she might drown in the long dress. The short version is 27'' from the chest panel and the long version is 46'' (19'' longer). Of course you must take into consideration that you can wrap and wear the dress in ways to make it shorter or longer.

What some brides have done is have all the bridesmaids wear the short version and then have the maid of honour wear the long one so that she is differentiated. That way, you can have a mix of short and long Sakura Convertible Dresses for your wedding!

Q: I would like to use the Sakura Convertible Dress for my bridesmaid dresses. My bridesmaids would like to try on the dresses first, but we are not located in Toronto, ON, Canada. Is there any way we can try them on?

A: We have many brides who are in a similar situation and what they have done is order one dress (usually in the wedding colour or in a colour that you would consider keeping) and have all the bridesmaids try on that one. If it's a hit, then when you order the remaining dresses. If you decide that the dress is not for your bridesmaids, then simply return the unworn dress for a refund, subject to our return policy. Please note: this offer only applies to customers in Canada or the United States.

Q: Is the Henkaa Sakura Convertible Dress maternity friendly?

A: Most definitely. The convertible dress can be wrapped and tied to fit around your baby bump! The great thing is that the Sakura Convertible Dress dress will grow and shrink with you - we all know how much your body changes and fluctuates before and after pregnancy! Get our convertible dress and you'll avoid buying more maternity dresses that you won't be able to wear again after the baby is born!

*Take a look at one of our customers who was only 10 days away from giving birth at the time the photo was taken!

Q: Is the dress hard to wear? Does the Henkaa Sakura Convertible Dress come with instructions?

A: It takes a little getting used to at first, but the Sakura Convertible Dress is fairly straightforward to wear. Our instructions are primarily provided through online tutorials. We've found this to be the best way to deliver instructions as we're constantly coming up with new ways to wear the dress and video demonstrations are much better than pictures!

Q: Is the model on the website wearing a bra or some sort of undergarment?

A: Yes, the models in the shoot are wearing a Freebra, a seamless, strapless and backless stick on bra. For your convenience, we now carry the Freebra and other helpful essential Accessories including butterfly bra clips, Girls Night Out kits with adhesive fabric to skin tape and more to help you wear your Henkaa convertible dresses!

Q: What undergarments do you suggest to wear with this dress?

A: We would suggest that you wear this dress with a Freebra, which is a silicone based reusable stick on bra that is seamless, strapless and backless as they seem to work best. For those who are top heavy, nipple pads are also a great option. Alternately, if you opt to wear a bra, there are many styles you can wear the convertible dress to hide the straps - you just have to be creative!

Q: What does it mean if an item is on "Pre-Order"?

A: At Henkaa, we take pride in doing everything possible to ensure we have ever colour and size for all our products in stock. Sometimes, due to circumstances beyond our control (ie manufacturing or shipment delays), some products/colours may be out-of-stock. If/when this occurs, pre-ordering is the best way to ensure you get your Henkaa products as soon they are available again.

Your order will be fulfilled and shipped once all items are available.

We do not recommend waiting until the product is off of pre-order as priority goes to customers that have already submitted their pre-orders. If it ends up taking too long to fulfill your pre-order, please contact us and we will cancel your order and provide you with a complete refund via the method of payment.

Q: When can I expect to get my order if it's on "pre-order"?

A: For products on pre-order, we will post the estimated availability date on each product's corresponding page. We want to keep our customers well informed so we will always keep the page updated with the most accurate information available to us. Be sure to check the page regularly for the latest information!

Q: What is the return policy and how do I return all or part of my order?

A: Henkaa only accepts refunds on dresses and tube tops. Due to the intimate and hygenic nature of our accessories, these products are not returnable. Sample swatches and gift receipt purchases cannot be refunded.

We accept authorized returns on garments only under the following conditions:

garment(s) must be in a new, unworn, and unwashed condition with all tags attached
garment(s) must not contain:
- any pet hair, dust, dirt
- deodorant, makeup or any type of stains
- rips, tears or damages
- strong odors
you must contact us within 14 days of successful delivery of online orders (all shipments are tracked) to obtain a Return Authorization Number (RA#)

* After 14 days of receiving your order, we will no longer accept refunds. *

Henkaa is not responsible for lost packages or for any damages that may have occurred to the garment(s) while being returned to Henkaa. Upon inspection of the returned item(s), Henkaa reserves the right to deduct a 40% fee or outright refuse a return for items that are visibly worn, stained, soiled, ripped, tears, damaged, have pet hair or strong odours.

Online refunds are processed upon successful receipt and inspection of the returned item(s) back to the method of payment. Refunds are calculated as follows:

Value of the order
- minus shipping and handling charges
- minus restocking fee subject to inspection of the condition of the item(s) returned (if applicable)
- minus taxes (for Canadian orders)
- minus customs/brokerage charges (if any for US and International orders)

Shipping costs on returns are the responsibility of the customer, unless there was a processing error on our behalf (ie. you were shipped the wrong product). If such an error occurs we will refund up to the maximum amount charged for the outbound shipping (Henkaa to you) as long as a copy of the return shipping invoice is provided (can be included in the package, emailed or faxed to us).

For US and International Customers
Please also be aware that since we are in Canada, if you are shipping back from the USA or internationally, the package may be stopped at the border and subject to customs and brokerage clearance charges. As it occurs randomly, we recommend that you check with your shipping service for options to avoid customs inspections. There is no way for us to predict which packages are stopped but if there are customs or brokerage charges, the costs will be deducted from the refund. We will provide copies of any receipts for any and all customs/brokerage fees charged to Henkaa when receiving returned goods.

NOTE: ALL RETURNS MUST BE AUTHORIZED! PLEASE CONTACT US WITHIN 14 DAYS OF SUCCESSFUL RECEIPT OF YOUR ORDER TO OBTAIN A RETURN AUTHORIZATION NUMBER.

Once you receive your Return Authorization Number, you must ship the item(s) back within 5 business days or else the RA# will become null and void and your return will not be accepted.

Q: How do I exchange my dress for a different colour, size, length or credit note?

A: Henkaa only accepts exchanges on dresses and tube tops. Due to the intimate and hygenic nature of our accessories, these products are not returnable. Sample swatches and gift receipt purchases cannot be exchanged.

We accept authorized exchanges on garments only under the following conditions:

garment(s) must be in a new, unworn, and unwashed condition with all tags attached
garment(s) must not contain:
- any pet hair, dust, dirt
- deodorant, makeup or any type of stains
- rips, tears or damages
- strong odors
you must contact us within 14 days of successful delivery of online orders (all shipments are tracked) to obtain a Exchange Authorization Number (EA#)

* After 14 days of receiving your order, we will no longer accept exchanges. *

Henkaa is not responsible for lost packages or for any damages that may have occurred to the garment(s) while being returned to Henkaa. Upon inspection of the returned item(s), Henkaa reserves the right to deduct a 40% fee or outright refuse an exchange for items that are visibly worn, stained, soiled, ripped, tears, damaged, have pet hair or strong odours.

For exchanges (colour, size, length, etc.), customers are responsible for covering all shipping costs to return the original item(s) and to ship out the new item(s). The cost for shipping the new item(s) will be the same as our current shipping rates. We do not refund shipping costs on exchanges, unless there was a processing error on our behalf (ie. you were shipped the wrong product). If such an error occurs we will refund up to the maximum amount charged for the outbound shipping (Henkaa to you) as long as a copy of the return shipping invoice is provided (can be included in the package, emailed or faxed to us).

NOTE: ALL EXCHANGES MUST BE AUTHORIZED! PLEASE CONTACT US WITHIN 14 DAYS OF SUCCESSFUL RECEIPT OF YOUR ORDER TO OBTAIN A EXCHANGE AUTHORIZATION NUMBER.

Once you receive your Exchange Authorization Number, you must ship the item(s) back within 5 business days or else the EA# will become null and void and your return will not be accepted.

Q: The item(s) I received are defective. What do I do now?

A: If you receive a defective item, you must notify us within three (3) business days of when you received the product to qualify for free shipping for a return or exchange. You will be requested to include a picture of the defect for our evaluation prior to the return or exchange.

If you fail to provide us with a prompt notification within three (3) business days, the cost for shipping the defective item(s) back to Henkaa is the responsibility of the customer.

Q: I purchased the dress for a wedding that has been cancelled. Can I return it?

A: We are only able to accept returns that fall within our return and exchange policy guidelines.

Q: I would like to try on the dress in person and get a demo before I purchase it. Where do you sell them?

A: In addition to selling online, we currently have 2 retail locations in the Greater Toronto Area in Ontario, Canada. If you are in town, please visit us at one of the following locations:

Henkaa Headquarters & Retail Store: 5 Northtown Way #3 (directly across from 5400 Yonge Street), Toronto, ON M2N 7A1, Canada by appointment.
Gown and Glory Bridal Boutique: 1450 Northmount Avenue, Mississauga, ON, L5E 1Y6, Canada by appointment only.