Every dress we make is inspected, re-measured, quality checked, sprayed with our fabric fresh and VIDEO recorded before it is dispatched to ensure your requirements are met and for this reason we do not offer any exchanges and/or refunds on our products.

We take pride in knowing that we do not dispatch defective items to our valued customers. We do however understand that things may happen in transit that neither us or our customers have control over. For this reason please inspect your beautiful item, immediately after you open your package.

Here are some best practises:

• Each item comes with a quality control safety garment ribbon. When you see this ribbon you can be rest assured that we have examined the final product from top to bottom, left to right, front to back for any possible defects. With confidence, we also invite you to inspect the item from top to bottom, side to side for any defects such as rips, tears or damaged beads.
• The ribbon is only attached once the garment has gone through our very thorough quality control process. There is also a note on the ribbon reminding you that if this ribbon is detached the item is yours forever.
• For sizing control, try the item on immediately.
• If all looks well, cut the ribbon and enjoy your masterpiece. If there is an issue as listed above, please do not cut the ribbon, take photographs of defect(s) and kindly notify us immediately via email by sending over the photographs as well as your order number.

Each Onalaja piece is meticulously handcrafted using delicate beading, crystals, and embellishments. Due to the artisanal nature of our designs, minimal bead or crystal loss will occur, and over time with wear and handling.. This is a natural and expected characteristic of finely crafted, hand-finished garments and does not affect the overall beauty or integrity of your piece. We recommend handling your garment with care to preserve its intricate detailing for years to come.

At Onalaja we take pride in creating hand crafted, hand beaded and embellished pieces.

Our commitment to quality and detail means every garment we produce may take between 3-5 weeks to hand create pending no delays.

Please note that the 3-5 weeks is excluding Bank holidays and weekends.

Due to the demand, for sales items, please allow atleast 2-4 weeks, pending no delays and then shipping.

As soon as your order is ready for dispatch, we will send you a confirmation email along with your tracking details. You can use this information to monitor your package's journey directly on the courier's platform. We strongly encourage all customers to regularly check the tracking updates for the most accurate delivery information.

When you choose Onalaja, you're not just buying a garment or an item, you're investing in a work of art that will stand out from the crowd.

Thank you for choosing Onalaja and we look forward to creating something special just for you.

We encourage clients to send us their bust, waist, hip, sleeve length, and desired garment length before purchase if they are unsure about sizing. We are happy to accommodate these specifications where possible to ensure a better fit.

Look out of a confirmation email immediately after your purchase. This email will outline the details of your order including your preferred shipping address. Please review this email to ensure everything is accurate.

Please wait for our 3-5 weeks processing time (depending on selected style) to create your garment + SHIPPING TIME.

We take pride in creating garments that are meticulously crafted to fit you like a glove, which is why we devote up to 3-5 weeks to ensure that every detail is perfect before we hand your items to our carrier for shipping.

You will receive a tracking number after our specified processing time

Info@onalaja.com for all customer service inquiries. 

Please remember that we do not offer refunds or exchanges as all items are made to order.

At Onalaja, we believe every occasion deserves a garment that makes you feel special, memorable and confident. We are committed to doing everything we can to ensure you receive your order by your desired date.

Please bear in mind that express or rush orders will incur a 50% additional cost.

Kindly reach out to us before placing an order via info@onalaja.com.

At Onalaja, we continuously refine our craftsmanship, materials and techniques. A dress purchased in 2022 will not be identical to a version produced in 2026, as our quality, fabrication and finishing naturally evolve over time. These improvements ensure each piece becomes more durable, refined and luxurious.

Product photos on our website represent each design as accurately as possible. However, slight variations in colour, tone or texture can occur due to lighting, photography and screen display differences.

If you are ever unsure about how an item will look or how it compares to a piece you purchased in the past, please email us at info@onalaja.com before placing your order and we will be happy to confirm all details.

Most Onalaja pieces are lined, unless stated otherwise.

All construction and fabrication details are listed clearly on the right-hand side of each product page, including whether an item is lined or unlined, and the exact materials used.

If you are unsure about any aspect of the construction, lining, or fabric composition, please email us at info@onalaja.com before placing your order. We are happy to confirm any details to help you make the best decision.

Length can vary depending on height, proportions and body composition. Our models are usually taller than the average customer, so garments can appear longer on them in photos.

If you are petite or tall, or if you have any concerns about length before purchasing, please email us at info@onalaja.com after placing your order so we can note your height and advise accordingly.

Once your item has been produced, we are unable to alter or adjust the length.

Each Zusi dress is unique and varies due to our handmade and hand-beaded process. We don't use a specific print placement to promote sustainability (and to save waste), which means the pattern on each dress falls differently. As a result, some dresses may feature more of one color or pattern than another. For example, a Zusi pink and orange dress may have more pink beads than orange, depending on how the beads are applied. This ensures that each dress is truly one-of-a-kind.

Please note that the product pictures may not reflect the exact dress you receive, as each dress's unique placement will vary. If you would like more of one colour or have a specific bead colour or preference, please send us an email to discuss customisation. info@onalaja.com

Due to high demands during sales, please allow for extra time. Kindly also remember we do not offer exchanges, or refunds. All items are final sale.

All lead times still apply, however for sale please expect between 4- 8 weeks (depending on the demand) for hand beading and hand crafting your item, then delivery which could take up to another week. We will try our best to send your items out to you as soon as possible

If needed for a special date, kindly see * Urgent event question* for more details and email: info@onalaja.com to confirm before purchase.

We will make our best effort to get your item out to you as soon as possible.

This also applies to our black Friday sales and end of season sales.**

Please also see our Brand story 

Yes we do wholesale to retailers and boutiques. Please contact info@onalaja.com for whole enquiries.

Please refer to our sizing chart and product descriptions before purchasing to ensure the best fit. Our sizes range from XXS to XXXXL, and fit may vary by style.

For assistance with sizing, please email us at info@onalaja.com.

If your size is not available, we offer custom orders for an additional fee of up to 25%. Please note that custom orders are non-refundable or exchangeable. To place a custom order, email info@onalaja.com

We do not offer an alteration service for our pieces at this time. To ensure the best fit, we have provided a standardised size guide for reference when placing your order, listed on each product page.

While you are welcome to send in your measurements, please note that we still create your piece to the standard silhouette of the chosen style, unless you are ordering a fully customised design. If you have specific fit concerns, our team is happy to assist with sizing recommendations. Should additional adjustments be needed after purchase, we kindly recommend consulting a trusted local tailor for precise fittings as required.

We are thrilled to offer custom orders for those looking to add a personal, unique touch to their wardrobe.

We are able to customise lengths, colours, beading and size. This in some cases my incur an additional fee of up to 35%.

Our processing time for customs varies between 4-8 weeks depending on your design.

To place a custom order, simply email our dedicated customer care at info@onalaja.com with the details of the piece you're interested in, including measurements and details of what elements you would like changed. Our team will work closely with you to ensure that your custom order is one of a kind.

Please note that all custom orders are non-refundable or exchangeable, so we encourage you to take the time to carefully consider your choices before placing an order.

We love collaboration here at Onalaja. We would love to hear what you have in mind so please reach out to us at press@onalaja.com.

info@onalaja.com with your comp card information including shoe size.

Subscribe to our email and/or text list for the latest on our promotions, new items and events. Also follow us on Instagram @onalajaofficial for more updates.

At Onalaja, we are committed to continuously enhancing our business practices to pave the way for a conscious and sustainable future.

We work with a mindful and intentional approach to fashion consumption, with an emphasis on investing in pieces that are meant to be cherished for a lifetime, sustainability over disposability. This is why we believe in taking the time to craft each garment with care and attention to detail, using high-quality materials inspired by our African heritage

Our print-based fabrics are not only visually stunning, but also environmentally conscious. We use ink that is OEKO-TEX Eco Passport certified, guaranteeing that harmful chemicals are not present in our production process. This independent certification ensures that our materials are made in a socially responsible and environmentally friendly way.

At Onalaja, we do not mass produce.

We create with intention.

Every piece is a chapter in our story of texture, embroidery, heritage and modern surrealism. Our production model reflects that.

Handmade to order means your piece begins its journey once you place your order.

It is not pre made.

It is not pulled from stock.

It is not produced in bulk.

Your garment is individually cut, embroidered, embellished and finished by our artisans specifically for you.

From hand beading inspired by African artistry to sculpted silhouettes influenced by 70s glamour, every detail is executed with care. Like the hive, each stitch has purpose.

This allows us to honour craftsmanship over speed and artistry over excess.

Made to Order

You select your size using our size guide.

Your piece is then handcrafted in that size.

It carries the full Onalaja detail and structure, created just for you.

Made to Measure

Your garment is crafted using your personal measurements for a more tailored fit.

This option is ideal if:

• You are between sizes

• You desire a sculpted, closer fit

• You are petite or tall

• You want a more couture level experience

Made to measure allows the garment to honour your proportions while maintaining the integrity of the design.

We believe fashion should feel intentional and special.

Our made to order model allows us to:

• Reduce overproduction and waste

• Maintain exceptional embroidery and embellishment quality

• Preserve artisanal techniques

• Create pieces that feel rare and personal

We design for women who want to enter a room and own it, not disappear in it. That level of presence requires craftsmanship.

Because each piece is handcrafted, production typically takes several weeks.

Heavily embroidered, beaded or embellished garments may require additional time due to the intricacy of the work.

We believe beauty should not be rushed.

Exact timelines are always confirmed before purchase.

No.

Made to measure adapts an existing Onalaja design to your measurements.

Bespoke involves creating an entirely new design from scratch with multiple fittings and consultations.

If you are interested in a bespoke commission, please contact our atelier directly.

Made to measure and customisations involves:

• Individual pattern adjustments

• Precision cutting

• Measurement review

• Additional craftsmanship time

It is a more personalised atelier experience.

Every piece is created with the same philosophy that built our brand.

Intentional.

Textural.

Handcrafted.

Made for the woman who commands sweetness and power at once.

Yes. Due to the handcrafted nature of our designs, minimal bead or crystal loss may occur. This is a natural and expected characteristic of artisanal craftsmanship and does not affect the overall beauty or quality of your garment.

 We recommend professional dry cleaning only for all embellished, embroidered, or delicate Onalaja pieces. Please avoid machine washing, hand washing, or spot cleaning at home, as this may damage the intricate details.

Store your Onalaja piece in a cool, dry place, preferably in a garment bag or a breathable cover. We recommend hanging structured items and carefully folding softer pieces to prevent stretching or distortion. Keep away from direct sunlight to avoid fading.

We advise against ironing directly over any embellishments or delicate fabrics. If needed, use a steamer at a safe distance or place a cloth between the garment and the iron, focusing only on non-embellished areas. For best results, consult a professional dry cleaner.

Avoid spraying perfume, hairspray, or lotion directly onto the garment, especially near the embellishments, as this can weaken delicate finishes. Be mindful when wearing jewellery or accessories that may snag on the beading or embroidery.

Yes, we ship worldwide!

After your order has completed our processing time of 3-6 weeks, please allow 1-5 working days shipping depending on your location. 

Please note that we cannot take responsibility for delays due to customs clearances.

The prices displayed on our site are tax-free in Great British Pounds (GBP), which means you may be liable to pay for duties and taxes once you receive your order.

Custom duties vary from country to country and are paid by the customer.

Please check your countries custom policies before placing an order.

We will not provide refunds on orders sent back due to customs issues

Once your order has been made and dispatched a tracking number will be sent to you.

You can use this information to monitor your package's journey directly on the courier's platform. We strongly encourage all customers to regularly check the tracking updates for the most accurate delivery information.

As the responsibility for the safe delivery of your order transfers to the courier service once it leaves our premises, we advise contacting the courier directly for any issues related to delivery delays, package handling, or if your order is marked as delivered but has not been received. The tracking number provided in your shipping confirmation email will be crucial for the courier to assist you effectively.

In the rare event that your package is lost, please initiate a claim with the courier service using the tracking number provided to you. Additionally, let us know about the issue by contacting our customer service. We are committed to ensuring your satisfaction and will provide guidance on how to proceed, although our ability to directly intervene with courier services is limited once the package leaves our facility.

Note:The tracking process and follow-up for shipments are standard procedures facilitated by the courier service. Our goal is to make your shopping experience seamless, and while we are here to support you in the ordering and shipping process, the courier's policies and procedures will dictate the resolution of any delivery-related issues once the package is in transit.

At Onalaja, we understand that unforeseeable circumstances can sometimes impact the delivery of your order.

While we strive to ensure timely delivery, there are certain factors that are outside our control, such as global events, logistics, and customs checks. Rest assured, if any delay arises, we will keep you informed every step of the way and provide a new estimated delivery date as soon as possible.

We take pride in our commitment to customer satisfaction, and our team is always available to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. So, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@onalaja.com for any updates or assistance

All online orders placed during the Festive Day or Black Friday sale will begin shipping from January 2026.

Our small team takes a short period of rest over the holidays to reset for the new year, so production and dispatch resumes in January.

We dispatch from the United Kingdom.

The Lagos store remains open for walk-ins and in-person purchases throughout this period.

Thank you for your patience and continued support.

Production begins after the holidays, and you can calculate your lead time starting from mid January. All orders are produced strictly in the order they were received via our website.

Sale production timelines are longer than our standard lead times due to the high volume of orders and the handcrafted nature of each piece.

Each product page includes an average production time, but this may vary depending on the style. More intricate designs with heavier beading, embroidery or detailing will naturally require additional time.

All Festive Day and Black Friday orders are final sale, meaning:

• No refunds

• No exchanges

• No cancellations

• No alterations

Because each piece is handcrafted to order, we are unable to accept returns or amend your garment once production has begun.

If you are unsure about sizing, or if you are petite or tall, please email us after your purchase so we can assist before production begins.

When an order is “almost completed”, it means it is in the final stages of production, not that it is ready for dispatch the same day.

As each piece is handcrafted, the final detailing, finishing, quality checks and packaging may require additional time. Once your order is fully completed, you will receive a dispatch email and tracking number.

Each Onalaja piece is individually handcrafted. Orders are fulfilled strictly in the order they were placed, and production timelines can vary based on:

• The position of your order in the queue

• The complexity of the design

• The level of hand-beading, embroidery or detailing required

This means two customers who order the same style may still receive their pieces at different times. If you ordered multiple items, we may ship each item as it becomes ready rather than waiting for all items to be completed.

No.

The Lagos store operates only as a pickup point and is not an inquiry or customer-service centre. They cannot assist with questions about online sale orders, production timelines, changes, or any order-related concerns.

All enquiries regarding Festive Day, Black Friday or online orders placed via onalaja.com must be sent through:

• Email: info@onalaja.com

• Live Chat: available on our website

Any confirmations, updates or changes to your order must be provided in writing by email. This ensures accuracy and allows our production team to track all requests properly.

For the fastest and most reliable assistance, please contact us directly via email or our website live chat.

Requesting a delivery date does not guarantee that your order will be ready by that time. Because each piece is handcrafted and often hand-beaded, production times can vary.

A delivery date is only confirmed if:

1. We have provided written confirmation via email, and
   
2. (If required) a rush order fee has been paid to prioritise your order outside our standard timelines.
   

If we have not provided written confirmation via email, the date is not guaranteed.

We will always try our best, but without written approval, we cannot commit to a specific deadline.

For any time-sensitive requests, please email info@onalaja.com so we can advise and confirm what is possible.

If you require your item for a particular event or date, you must email us immediately after placing your sale order so we can confirm whether it is achievable. PLEASE MAKE SURE TO GET A WRITTEN EMAIL CONFIRMATION.

PLEASE DO NOT SEND MESSAGES VIA THE LAGOS STORE WHATSAPP. THE ONLY VALID CONFIRMATION IS A WRITTEN EMAIL TO INFO@ONALAJA.COM

If no delivery date was communicated at checkout or via email, we proceed with your order at the standard sale timeline.

All Festive Day and Black Friday sale orders are final.

This applies to:

• No refunds

• No exchanges

• No cancellations

• No alterations

Once production has started on your piece, we cannot make any changes.

If you are unsure about sizing, or if you are petite or tall, please email us after placing your sale order with your measurements.

If we do not receive written instructions, we will produce your item based on the standard size selected at checkout.

Once your item has been made, we cannot amend it, and we do not offer alterations.

Yes.

Since all orders dispatch from the United Kingdom, customers are responsible for any customs, duties, taxes or import fees charged by their country. These fees vary depending on your location.

Not always.

To avoid unnecessary delays, items may be shipped individually as they are completed. You will receive a tracking number each time an item is dispatched

If you are unsure about sizing, design details, colourways or custom concerns, please email us at info@onalaja.com before placing your order.

We are happy to guide you.

Yes.

Our team is available via email at info@onalaja.com for any assistance. We aim to respond as quickly as possible, especially during peak sale seasons.

The sales terms were:

• Displayed clearly on the website announcement bar

• Sent via email before the Festive Day and Black Friday event

• Repeated across Instagram, including Instagram Live

• Listed within the sale details prior to checkout

We have consistently shared the same information since before the sale began to ensure full transparency.

We understand delays can be frustrating, especially for special occasions. Your order is being handcrafted with care, and once completed, you will receive full dispatch details.

If you need an update or have any questions, please email us at info@onalaja.com and our team will be happy to assist.

During the Black Friday event, we clearly communicated:

• On the announcement bar on our website

• In the sale terms sent via email

• On Instagram and Instagram Live

that all sale orders would enter production after the holidays and begin shipping from January.

Sale orders are final, and we are unable to cancel or refund items once production has started.

No, we do not offer alterations for any items purchased, and we do not have a tailoring service in Lagos. All production occurs in London, where we are based.

Please ensure you confirm your measurements with our team after placing your sale order if needed or if you are unsure.

Most Onalaja pieces are lined, unless stated otherwise.

All construction and fabrication details are listed clearly on the right-hand side of each product page, including whether an item is lined or unlined, and the exact materials used.

If you are unsure about any aspect of the construction, lining, or fabric composition, please email us at info@onalaja.com before placing your order. We are happy to confirm any details to help you make the best decision.

Length can vary depending on height, proportions and body composition. Our models are usually taller than the average customer, so garments can appear longer on them in photos.

If you are petite or tall, or if you have any concerns about length before purchasing, please email us at info@onalaja.com after placing your order so we can note your height and advise accordingly.

Once your item has been produced, we are unable to alter or adjust the length.

At Onalaja, we continuously refine our craftsmanship, materials and techniques. A dress purchased in 2022 will not be identical to a version produced in 2026, as our quality, fabrication and finishing naturally evolve over time. These improvements ensure each piece becomes more durable, refined and luxurious.

Product photos on our website represent each design as accurately as possible. However, slight variations in colour, tone or texture can occur due to lighting, photography and screen display differences.

If you are ever unsure about how an item will look or how it compares to a piece you purchased in the past, please email us at info@onalaja.com before placing your order and we will be happy to confirm all details.

Yes, we ship worldwide.

Shipping options and estimated timelines will be shown at checkout.

No returns, No exchanges. All sales are final.

In the rare occasion where an item is damaged in transit, please see “ Is my order quality checked” FAQ question above for next steps.

Currently all Onalaja pieces are on a made to order basis, for that reason, we do not offer refunds or exchanges.

We take pride in making sure that all our pieces are quality controlled and inspected before it is sent out to you. We also take images and recordings of each piece to avoid any faulty, damaged or marked claims.

Our commitment to transparency means that every garment listed on our website comes with an extensive, detailed and unique description. It is crucial that you carefully read the item description and check all sizing and measurements before making a purchase. 

If you have any queries about a particular garment, please feel free to reach out to our customer support team before placing your order via email info@onalaja.com

By placing an order, you confirm your agreement with our store policies. 

At Onalaja, we understand that unforeseeable circumstances can sometimes impact the delivery of your order.

While we strive to ensure timely delivery, there are certain factors that are outside our control, such as global events, logistics, and customs checks. Rest assured, if any delay arises, we will keep you informed every step of the way and provide a new estimated delivery date as soon as possible.

We take pride in our commitment to customer satisfaction, and our team is always available to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. So, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@onalaja.com for any updates or assistance