The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC logo

The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC

Alterations/Sewing/Decorating, Bridal Shops, Costume Rental Service,

About us

From full production theatrical costume design to bridal delights and homecoming gowns. I design and craft custom fashions. I also rent costumes and can even teach you how to sew, or how to be better at sewing.

Business highlights

27 years of experience

Services we offer

Bridal Alterations, Costumes: custom and rental; custom clothing, formal event rentals, alterations, repairs, sewing lessons, silk scarf painting

Services we don't offer

Embroidery, silk screening

Amenities

Eco Friendly Accreditations

Yes

Warranties

Yes

Senior Discount

10%

Accepted Payment Methods

  • American Express
  • PayPal
  • Check
  • Visa
  • Discover
  • MasterCard
Reviews
4.930 Reviews
Number of StarsImage of DistributionNumber of Ratings
5
97%
4
0%
3
3%
2
0%
1
0%

Filter reviews by service

Showing 1-25 of 30 reviews
Andre M.
Sep 2022
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
Fantastic. Marilyn is friendly, professional, and creative. In addition to altering dresses based on our requirements, she identified other issues, explained how she'd remedy them, and then executed those improvements masterfully. Marilyn's studio is bright, organized, and spacious. You'll have her undivided attention during every appointment. I highly recommend her talents for formal attire and for any other clothing alterations.

Kathryn W.
Aug 2021
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating, Bridal Shops
Yes, I recommend this pro
I can't say enough good things about Marilyn! Her studio is about a half hour drive from DC, tucked away in a corner, but completely worth the trip for the incredible talent found there! She is patient and thoughtful and willing to answer any questions you have, in case you like to know the "why" like me. She is conscientious, careful to explain any costs and alterations before making them. She is skillful, helping to alter my wedding gown which was a few sizes too large, but had drapery and fabric names I can't pronounce. She is flexible, helping to find a good time for me to schedule my appointments so I had to take off less work. Knowing Marilyn was working on my wedding gown gave me the peace of mind that I would wish for every bride!
Response from The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC
"[Member Name Removed], Thank you for your words of praise! We all enjoyed working with you to bring your gowns to perfect fit. Loved hearing about all the wedding details as we went thru our fittings. Wishing you much joy and happiness always... Marilyn Johnson"

LaQuanta S.
Apr 2021
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
$400
From my first visit until the last, Marilyn and her team were awesome! I have never met a seamstress who is so passionate and professional with her craft. I appreciated her meticulous eye and attention to the details of my dress. During every fitting, she provided details about what she was doing and what would happen next, and she always left room for questions. I will definitely refer friends to this business, in the future.
Response from The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC
"LaQuanta- Thank you for the kind words! It was a joy to work on such a beautiful gown for an even more beautiful bride! Best Wishes. Marilyn"

Connie
Feb 2021
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating, Costume Rental Service
Yes, I recommend this pro
$55
Mine was a small project, replacing a zipper in a jacket. All of the staff was professional and very nice. The price was fair and the zipper was expertly inserted in just a few days. Highly recommend this studio. Thank you!
Response from The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC
"Thank you, [Member Name Removed], for taking time to give us such a positive review! It was our pleasure to repair your zipper. We look forward to working with you again in the future!"

Justin M.
Jan 2021
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
$60
You don't get much better than Marilyn Johnson and I would rate A+ if the option was available. Marilyn has been able to work a few small miracles making some custom alterations on my hockey jerseys. Anytime I need sewing or custom alterations this is the place I go and highly recommend.
Response from The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC
"[Member Name Removed] ~ Thank you so much for your review! It makes us so happy to know we have exceeded your expectations. We will continue to work hard to maintain your A+ rating. Marilyn Johnson"

RACHEL L.
Nov 2020
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
I love this shop, the owner was very warm and welcoming. She conducted the fitting and gave me recommendations. It was a great experience.
Response from The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC
"Thank you, [Member Name Removed]! I'm so glad you enjoyed your experience with us and thank you so much for sharing!"

Sarah R.
Oct 2020
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating, Bridal Shops
Yes, I recommend this pro
$445
Awesome! Marilyn knew exactly what I needed, gave my dress a perfect hem and beautiful bustle. I was very pleased with her work and she has so much knowledge about sewing and clothing.
Response from The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC
"[Member Name Removed], we really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience with us. We are happy that you're happy. We count ourselves lucky for customers like you and look forward to working with you again in the future!"

Candace C.
Sep 2020
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
$100
Very professional and excellent work. Highly recommend this place.
Response from The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC
"[Member Name Removed], we are truly happy to hear you had a positive experience at The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio! We really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience with us. We count ourselves lucky to have customers like you. We look forward to working with you again in the future!"

Candace C.
Apr 2020
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
$46
The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio is wonderful! I made an appointment and met with Marilyn to discuss the repairs requested for my items. She was pleasant and professional. The work done was excellent quality and the items were ready for pickup several days in advance of the promised date. Great experience all the way around!
Response from The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC
"Thank you! It was a pleasure working with you. We are happy that you're satisfied with the alterations. We look forward to being able to work with again in the future. Be well and stay safe."

Vivian S.
Jan 2019
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
excellent quality

Amy K.
Sep 2018
3.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
$54
I got a quote via email from the assistant that the work done would vary but she quoted me $30-60 for all the work I needed. The dress only cost me $100 so I didn't want to spend more on alterations. She did not specify the price was per later until we got to the space. The encounter took entirely too long was very awkward and unprofessional and the price was outrageous at $120+ dollars for a strap tuck and the double hem. She could've told me up front what the price was before drive down there and I wouldn't have wasted my gas to drive down to this place. I got the straps tucked for $50+ and it took them nearly a month. When I picked up the owner reiterated that I did not want the hem done and I said no. I did not need to be reminded or guilted into paying her price. I took it to another seamstress on a friends recommendation and a lady did the double hem for $18 and it took her a week. I was in and out of her house in ten minutes for measuring. Now the seamstress did comment on the quality of the straps saying they were well done but I won't go again. The whole experience left a bad taste in my mouth.

Jane S.
Jan 2018
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
I need the dress by the 29th of December and she was really right on. She did it. She's very good and prompt. She's just a lovely lady. Very professional all way around. No nonsense and got the job done. She's got a great team behind her. You get what you paid for.

Michelle E.
May 2017
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
$45
Everything went perfectly. Thank you Marilyn!

Jennifer R.
Mar 2017
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
$50
I couldn't be more happy with the custom made belt Marilyn made. It fits the coat perfect and is a beautiful fabric. Working with Marilyn and the staff at The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio was an absolute pleasure!
Response from The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC
"[Member Name Removed], I'm so glad to know that you are happy with the belt! As my German grandmother would say, "wear it in good health!" Marilyn Johnson"

Matthew I.
Jan 2017
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
The outcome was excellent, as it always is. To start, the staff and owner are very courteous and pleasant. They are attentive and very adept at their trade. Next, the quality of wotk that they provide is always top notch and unrivalled. They always surpass my expectations. Finally, there is no doubt that they have my business for any of my needs that they can fulfill. They have gained a life long customer. Well done, Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio!!

Edward L.
Dec 2016
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
$225
Superbly! I will come back again when needed without hesitation and recommend to any one who would need such professional work.

Maggy S.
Sep 2016
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
$90
It went beautifully. The dress was done so professionally that no one would ever guess that it had been altered. The staff was wonderful and I would definitely recommend them for anyone needing alterations!!

Maggy S.
Sep 2016
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
unknown

Allison F.
Jun 2016
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
$155
After I wasn't happy with the job another alterations shop did on my dress (see before picture), I only had a few days to get my bridesmaid dress fixed before the wedding. To top it off, it was memorial day. I called Marilyn Johnson Design Studios and lucky for me Marilyn was there even on a holiday; by chance she was meeting with another client who was in town for a dress fitting. She told me to come right over, and then examined the dress. It was immediately evident that Marilyn is a true seamstress. She meticulously measured every inch of the uneven him and pinned it to exactly the right length. She knew exactly what to do with the complexities of a multiple layered, complex dress. Her measurements showed that the previous alterations job left the hem at varying lengths of +/- several inches in places. She and her staff were able to turn the dress around in 48 hours (including some holiday hours) and produced a beautiful and perfect result. The dress was perfectly tea length and the bride (and me) were very happy. Also my mother is a seamstress who made the bride's wedding dress-- her opinion counts most for me, and she loved the work Marilyn and her shop did on my dress. I will not hesitate to go to Marilyn Johnson Design Studios for all my future sewing and design needs.

Allison F.
Jun 2016
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating, Bridal Shops
Yes, I recommend this pro
$155
After I wasn't happy with the job another alterations shop did on my dress (see before picture), I only had a few days to get my bridesmaid dress fixed before the wedding. To top it off, it was memorial day. I called Marilyn Johnson Design Studios and lucky for me Marilyn was there even on a holiday; by chance she was meeting with another client who was in town for a dress fitting. She told me to come right over, and then examined the dress. It was immediately evident that Marilyn is a true seamstress. She meticulously measured every inch of the uneven hem and pinned it to exactly the right length. She knew exactly what to do with the complexities of a multiple layered, complex dress. Her measurements showed that the previous alterations job left the hem at varying lengths of +/- several inches in places. She and her staff were able to turn the dress around in 48 hours (including some holiday hours) and produced a beautiful and perfect result. The dress was perfectly tea length and the bride (and me) were very happy. Also my mother is a seamstress who made my sister's wedding dress-- her opinion counts most for me, and she loved the work Marilyn and her shop did on my dress. I will not hesitate to go to Marilyn Johnson Design Studios for all my future sewing and design needs.

Velesha B.
May 2016
5.0
Bridal Shops
Yes, I recommend this pro
$250
All of my fittings went very well. The workers had to best customer service on the phone when setting up my appointments. All our deadlines were met and Marilyn was very affordable.

Andy Y.
May 2016
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
$80
Everything went wonderfully! There were no hiccups nor issues of any kind. She did call and ask me to come in so that I could physically be there in order to clarify some questions that she had about two of the pieces. She wanted to be sure that she got it right before she commenced work. The work did take a few weeks, but that was because I brought a half dozen items in and then it was prom season. Her office was understandably busy for that time of year. Overall, the experience was wonderful. If it were possible to give Marilyn an 11 out of 10, I would do it in a heartbeat. I'm definitely going back for any future work. Thanks again!

Simone J.
Mar 2016
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
$30
I have been to Marilyn for multiple special occasions. I won't go anywhere else. I have also recommended others to Marilyn that have been 100% satisfied. Marilyn knows her stuff, is professional and dependable as well as reasonably priced.

Mary R.
Oct 2015
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
$200
As mother of the bride, I brought Marilyn a heavily beaded
dress that needed alterations to both the top of the dress and to the hem.  Because of the beading and the dress fabric,
these alterations were rather tricky and time consuming. The changes required
two fittings but everything was done on time and the dress looked
beautiful.   I definitely recommend Marilyn Johnson Design
Studio for all alterations but especially for complicated projects.

Lynn M.
Oct 2015
5.0
Alterations/Sewing/Decorating
Yes, I recommend this pro
unknown
Showing 1-25 of 30

Licensing

Insured

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FAQ

The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC is currently rated 4.9 overall out of 5.

Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Sunday: Closed

The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC accepts the following forms of payment: American Express, PayPal, Check, Visa, Discover, MasterCard

No, The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC does not offer free project estimates.

Yes, The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC offers eco-friendly accreditations.

Yes, The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC offers a 10% senior discount.

No, The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC does not offer emergency services.

Yes, The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC offers warranties.

The Marilyn Johnson Sewing Design Studio, LLC offers the following services: Bridal Alterations, Costumes: custom and rental; custom clothing, formal event rentals, alterations, repairs, sewing lessons, silk scarf painting

Embroidery, silk screening