"BEHIND THE SEAMS TOUR"

Step Inside London’s Premier Performance Wear Studio – Behind the Seams Tour

Discover the artistry and craftsmanship behind world-renowned performance wear, proudly Made in London. From costumes featured in iconic West End productions like Moulin Rouge and Starlight Express, to Ballroom and Latin dresses worn on the nation’s favorite dancing show Strictly Come Dancing, and bespoke creations for the Royal Ballet & Opera, our work brings stories to life.

Join our Behind the Seams tour, where you’ll witness firsthand the magic of costume production. Perfect for fashion lovers, Strictly fans, hobby machinists, and anyone intrigued by the art of sewing, this unique experience offers an exclusive look at our bustling South London studio.

Open Tours:

  • When: Most Saturdays and the first Tuesday of each month at 2 PM
  • Duration: Approximately 2 hours
  • Tickets: £30 per person

We also cater to custom group bookings, making it an ideal outing for schools, universities, Women’s Institutes, and sewing enthusiasts.

Immerse yourself in a world of design, craftsmanship, and creativity. Book your tour now on our website or email us at behindtheseams@dsi-london.com.

Discover the stories stitched into every costume—only on the Behind the Seams tour.

Book Your Behind the Seams Tour Now

Click the image above to secure your spot on the Behind the Seams tour.

  • Price: £30.00 per person
  • Tour Times for Individuals: The first Tuesday of every month at 2 PM. Selected Saturdays are also available at 2pm—these dates will be highlighted in white on the booking form.

Please ensure you save or print your order confirmation as proof of payment.

👉 Click the image above to book now and immerse yourself in the magic of costume creation!


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Behind the Seams Vouchers

Looking for the perfect gift for a Strictly fan or anyone fascinated by the art of costume production? Our Behind the Seams vouchers are the ultimate present!

How to Purchase a Voucher

  • Click above image
  • Enter the number of vouchers you’d like to purchase.
  • Once payment is complete, we’ll send the vouchers to your address.

How to Redeem

The vouchers are open-ended, allowing flexibility for the recipient. To book, they simply email gerald@dsi-london.com to choose a suitable tour date—available every first Tuesday of the month and selected Saturdays at 2 PM.


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Group Bookings

Group Bookings – A Unique Experience for Your Organization
Looking for a truly unique fashion tour in London? Our Behind the Seams group tours are perfect for Women’s Institutes, fashion schools and universities, craft clubs, and even corporate team bonding exercises. With a focus on creativity and craftsmanship, this is a one-of-a-kind outing sure to inspire and delight.
Booking Details:

  • Days available: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday
  • Times: 11 AM or 2 PM
  • Group size: Up to 33 people per tour. For larger groups (up to 60), we split the experience—half enjoying an engaging talk in a designated room while the other explores our production areas.
Practical Information:
  • Deposit: A 50% deposit is required upon booking.
  • Convenient for groups: Buses are welcome, and parking space is available for their use during the visit.
  • Contact us: Email carole@dsi-london.com or gerald@dsi-london.com, or call our office at 020 8664 8188 to secure your group’s spot.
Discover the art of costume-making and experience firsthand the magic of performance wear production. Whether you're planning a school outing, a crafting club visit, or a corporate team day, our tours promise a memorable and inspiring adventure for everyone.

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External Behind the Seams Tours

Bring the Behind the Seams Experience to Your Venue

Looking for a unique and memorable event? Our External Behind the Seams tour brings the magic of performance wear directly to you! Perfect for theatres, guildhalls, universities, leisure parks, clubs, and more, this portable experience offers entertainment and insight like no other.

What to Expect:

  • A curated selection of dazzling dresses, including some as seen on Strictly Come Dancing.
  • Interactive opportunities to try on the costumes, sparking excitement and engagement among attendees.
  • An in-depth look at the artistry, craftsmanship, and stories behind each piece, identical to our in-house tours.

Ideal for:

  • Women’s Institutes
  • Needle and hobby craft clubs
  • Fashion enthusiasts
  • Clubs and organizations looking to entertain and inspire

Booking Details:

  • Price: Starting at £825 + VAT + travel expenses (subject to location and audience size).
  • Flexible scheduling: We adapt to your event’s specific timing and requirements.

For inquiries and bookings, email us at Behindtheseams@dsi-london.com. Let us bring the creativity and charm of costume-making to your doorstep!


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What is the Behind the Seams Tour?

The Behind the Seams Tour is an exclusive, two-hour experience that offers a rare glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship behind world-class performance wear. Hosted at DSI London’s South London headquarters, this immersive tour showcases how dazzling costumes, including those seen on Strictly Come Dancing, are brought to life.

What You’ll Experience:

  • Begin with a champagne reception in our showroom, where you’ll hear about DSI London’s origins, our partnership with Strictly, and our evolution into one of the UK’s largest performance wear manufacturers.
  • Explore our bustling production facilities, including the famous crystallizing section, and marvel at the vibrant stockroom of sparkling fabrics.
  • Enjoy an interactive Q&A session and gain insights into the challenges of UK costume production.
  • Try on one of our original costumes and experience the magic of a spin and whirl!

Who’s It For?

Whether you’re a Strictly fan, a fashion enthusiast, or part of a school, Women’s Institute, crafting club, or corporate group, this tour offers inspiration and entertainment for all.

Flexible Options:

Join a public tour every first Tuesday of the month or selected Saturdays at 2 PM. Private group tours and external tours at your location are also available, making it perfect for tailored outings.

A Gift to Remember:

Looking for a unique present? Purchase our open-ended vouchers and let your loved ones book a date that suits them.

Discover the heart of costume production in the vibrant setting of South London—a true celebration of creativity, precision, and the magic of performance wear.


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How Long Does the Behind the Seams Tour Take?

The Behind the Seams tour is a two-hour immersive journey through the heart of our bustling South London studio.

Your experience begins with a champagne reception, followed by an engaging talk in our dedicated showroom. Here, we’ll share the story of our origins, how we became one of London’s largest performance wear manufacturers, and our exciting collaborations with the iconic Strictly Come Dancing. You’ll also gain insights into the intricate production process behind each show-stopping creation.

Next, you’ll embark on a guided walkthrough of our vibrant production facilities, where the magic happens:

  • Witness the artistry of dressmaking in action.
  • Explore the mesmerizing crystallizing section, where garments are adorned with sparkling embellishments.
  • Visit our stockroom—a kaleidoscope of bright, shimmering fabrics sure to inspire awe.

Throughout the tour, our team is on hand to answer your questions, share anecdotes, and delve deeper into any topic that sparks your interest. To wrap up the experience, you might even get the chance to try on one of our original dresses and feel the magic of a spin and whirl.

Allow approximately two hours for this unforgettable experience.


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Where is the Behind the Seams Tour Held?

The Behind the Seams tour takes place at our DSI London headquarters:

Unit 13, Progress Business Park, Progress Way, Croydon, Surrey CR0 4XD.

Located in South London, our studio is a proud testament to the Made in London ethos, offering an exclusive glimpse into the heart of performance wear creation.

How to Find Us:

  • By Tram:
    Waddon Marsh is a train station on the Tramlink route from East Croydon to Wimbledon.
  • By Foot from Waddon Marsh:
    1. Upon arriving at Waddon Marsh, head towards Sainsbury’s.
    2. Walk alongside Sainsbury’s, passing the petrol station, until you reach Commerce Way (located between Sainsbury’s petrol station and TK Maxx).
    3. Cross the main road (A23 - Purley Way) and continue straight, keeping Lidl on your left.
    4. After approximately 150m, turn right into Progress Way.
    5. DSI London is the corner building, with the entrance to the Industrial Estate located 200m further along Progress Way.

Parking:
We offer a dedicated car park with ample space for cars and buses.

Contact Us:

  • Telephone: 020 8664 8188
  • Email: behindtheseams@dsi-london.com

Experience the creative buzz of London’s largest performance wear manufacturer—right here in Croydon.


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Educational "Behind the Seams Tours"

Originally designed for Strictly Come Dancing fans, the Behind the Seams tour has evolved into a dynamic educational experience, showcasing DSI London as a leading UK couture fashion house. Students will gain valuable insights into:

  • Our contributions to blockbuster films and West End productions.
  • The importance of supporting local UK manufacturing.
  • The essential traits, attitudes, and commitment required to thrive in the fashion industry.

For university and educational group bookings, we offer an extended 30-minute Question and Answer session, providing an in-depth look into the world of costume production and career guidance for budding industry professionals.

Details:

  • Price: £30 per student
  • Minimum Group Size: 15 students
  • Complimentary Access: Teachers and accompanying staff attend free of charge.
  • Larger Groups: For bookings exceeding 30 students, contact gerald@dsi-london.com to discuss arrangements.

This extended educational tour is an inspiring and practical resource for students passionate about fashion, costume production, and creative industries.



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Tour Highlights – Explore the Magic Behind the Seams

Embark on an exclusive journey into the fascinating world of costume production at DSI London. Perfect for fashion enthusiasts, crafting clubs, Women’s Institutes, universities, and corporate groups, our tour offers an unforgettable experience.

Welcome Reception
Begin your visit in style with a choice of Prosecco or a refreshing soft drink, setting the stage for an immersive and inspiring experience.

Craftsmanship Unveiled
Delve into the meticulous artistry that brings performance costumes to life. From dazzling Ballroom & Latin dresses to costumes featured in Strictly Come Dancing, world-class dance events, cruise performances, West End shows, and blockbuster films, you’ll gain an in-depth understanding of the skill and passion behind every creation.

Industry Insights
Learn about the unique challenges faced by the UK production industry, including meeting the tight deadlines required for high-profile productions. Understand how our South London studio, a proud beacon of Made in London excellence, continues to thrive.

Interactive Q&A
Ask questions throughout the tour, whether you're curious about design techniques, the evolution of costume trends, or the secrets behind our most iconic creations.

Showroom & Production Tour
Conclude your visit with a captivating walkthrough of our facilities:

  • Showroom: See our history and highlights up close.
  • Stockroom: Marvel at the kaleidoscope of vibrant fabrics and sparkling embellishments.
  • Production Areas: Experience the buzz of our team at work, including the “magic” crystallizing section where garments are transformed into show-stopping masterpieces.

A Hands-On Experience
As a grand finale, enjoy the rare opportunity to try on original dresses and feel the magic of a spin and whirl in costumes that have graced stages and screens worldwide.

Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to explore the artistry, creativity, and dedication that define DSI London. We can’t wait to share our world with you!


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Behind the Seams FAQs

How long is the tour?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Is there parking?
Yes, parking is available in our dedicated car park on Saturdays. On weekdays, parking is more limited. Alternatively, Lidl nearby offers up to 3 hours of free parking.

Are there food facilities?
No, but we recommend visiting the Valley Retail & Leisure Park, located just 1 mile away, or nearby options like Starbucks or the TK Maxx café on Purley Way.

Can we take pictures?
Yes, you’re welcome to take pictures in the showroom and stock rooms, but photography is not permitted in the production rooms.

What’s the nearest mode of public transport?

  • Tram: The Waddon Marsh Tram stop is only a 7-minute walk away.
  • Train: East Croydon is the nearest mainline train station.

What time does the tour start?
Public tours begin at 2 PM. Private tour times will be arranged directly with a member of staff.

What time should we arrive?
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your booking to ensure a prompt start.

Is there disability access?
There are some staircases within the building, and we advise that this tour may not be suitable for visitors with limited mobility. Please contact us for more details.

Can I refund, exchange, or rebook my tickets?
While we are unable to offer refunds due to the high volume of bookings, we can postpone your tour to a later date if you are unable to attend.

What does the tour entail?
The tour includes an engaging talk about our history and processes, as well as a guided walkthrough of our production facilities.

Can children join the tour?
Yes, children are welcome, but we recommend the experience for ages 10 and up due to the level of detail in the presentations.

Can I book a private group tour?
Yes! We offer private group tours for up to 33 people, with flexible scheduling. For larger groups, the experience can be split into two sessions.

Do you offer external tours?
Yes, we can bring the Behind the Seams experience to your location! Please email us at Behindtheseams@dsi-london.com for more information.

CLICK HERE to book your tour


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Customers Reviews

 

"Just a note to say thank you for such an interesting, fun and colourful few hours on Saturday. I visited with my daughter and we both very much enjoyed it. Gerald was a brilliant guide - he must have done the tour a great many times but he was still enthusiastic and shared lots of interesting stories. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Behind the Seams and have already bought some tickets for a Christmas present for my daughter in law who used to be a dancer."
Jo Hawkins
 
"Thank you so much for the excellent tour yesterday, we enjoyed it hugely. DSI is impressive on so many levels; a successful international company that is seen as the “go to” place for everything Ballroom & Latin, your commitment & pride in your skilled workforce (they are amazing), the focussed work ethic throughout the company and the sheer joy you have in producing exquisite garments. Long may it continue. Blissfully,"
Monica & Wendy, Cambridge
 
"Thank you so much for today – it was such a special day. Thank you very much. We will all be watching Strictly now with eagle eyes!! The dresses were amazing. Best wishes,"
Pat, Kingsbury WI St Albans
 
"On behalf of all the WI Ladies, thank you, thank you for a wonderful afternoon. Even before I got home emails started arriving from people saying how much they had enjoyed their visit to DSI - ‘one of the best trips ever’ said one. You gave us such an interesting insight into the world of costume design and creation. To actually see and feel the beautiful dresses made one realise the amount of detail which goes into producing each one, and it was a privilege to see your dedicated team working on them. We also appreciated all the inside information about your company and realise a little more about what it takes to get the show on the road. No doubt we will now watch Strictly in a new light. Again, many thanks to you both, for the trip, for your welcome and for the glass of prosecco! Best wishes,"
Margaret, WI Old Coulsdon
 
"Thank you so much for an absolutely fab-u-lous time yesterday. All the ladies and myself thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and had such a lot of fun. With your obvious enthusiasm you really brought Strictly alive for us all showing us the complete operation of DSI from every twinkle to the finished dresses and how they were assembled; we all learned many things from the bendy shoes to the washing machines! Lots of laughs in the coach about the men's shirts too! It was great fun trying on the dresses - won't my grandchildren be impressed! Sorry I couldn't shoe-horn myself into the slinky numbers - that was a reality check!! We really appreciated your hospitality and loved the glass of fizzy - really added to the occasion. Very best wishes to you and the team."
Lynne & the Longwick Evening WI
 
"Hello, it was nice to meet you yesterday and such an enjoyable 'experience ' for me. I had no idea of my afternoon as it was a 'special' birthday present arranged by my two friends. I am an avid Strictly fan and so it couldn't have been better! I'm sorry that I couldn't find a dress to try on as it would have made the afternoon complete. So can I please take you up on your 'offer' and if a ballroom dress 'comes along ' you think suitable you can let me know? Regards."
Maggie
 
"Hello, we just wanted to thank you all, particularly Gerald, for a fantastic tour on Saturday. We had a brilliant afternoon and loved every minute of it. We loved the detail that Gerald went in to regarding the process of manufacture and the anecdotes were great. Being able to try on a dress at the end and feel the magic of its manufacture topped off an already fantastic tour. We have already recommended your tour to friends and family and will continue to do so. Thanks again."
Clare and Kerry
 
"This is a little email to say a large thank you for the fabulous “Behind the Seams” tour I attended with my Mum on Saturday. It was thoroughly enjoyable, entertaining, informative and impressive. We both thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon and have been talking to friends and family about our experience ever since. Please accept our apologies that we left without saying goodbye but everyone was enjoying trying on dresses so much we did not want to interrupt the fun. May we wish you continued success and thank you once again for the opportunity to see all the hard work that goes into such fantastic costumes."
Susan Walker
 
"All the ladies of our U3A Group loved every moment of the tour and were all buzzing all the way home and I have even had numerous emails today raving about the tour. I want to thank you and Gerald once again for hosting us all and hope we will see you both again in the not too distant future."
Val Gold
 
"Please pass on our appreciation to Gerald for such an entertaining and informative tour on Saturday. Everything he said sounded as though it was the first time he had told the story. He is a lovely host and he made us feel he was talking to friends. We are Strictly addicts and I love sewing and creating crafts. To walk around your organisation was such a treat. The colours, the materials. My senses were overwhelmed. It was such a pleasure to see so many of your colleagues at their work stations. All so gifted and committed. I knew I would love Ash before I met him. I hope he is feeling better. It was concerning to hear that few people are interested in taking up a career in your specialist world. Please all take care of yourselves. Ask Gerald to carry a bottle of water with him on his tour as I did not see him drink at all. Please know how much pleasure you give us all. I can't recommend the tour highly enough."
Rosemarie and Martin McKay, Gloucestershire

"Thank you for our most enjoyable visit this morning by the ladies from Eden Park WI. It was a most interesting insight into behind the scenes of what goes on to make Strictly Come Dancing the success that it is. You and your team are clearly dedicated and work very hard. Many Thanks."

Mrs Gonen Tahir - Treasurer EPWI

"I just wanted to express my thanks to you and the whole team for yesterday’s tour which was absolutely fantastic. You are a wonderful speaker, and so engaging, we were hooked from the very beginning. I must say as well how lovely Italia is, and all the team. Everything was just pitched perfectly. I think you can see from how long everyone stayed on afterwards just how much people enjoyed it! I have no doubt that you’ll be hearing again from us and I have shared your email and the DSI main contact details with the whole group in case they’d like to visit again. Thanks again so much and good luck with Blackpool week this week!"

Carolyn Lawson - Parents’ Arts Relationship Manager TONBRIDGE SOCIETY

"Good morning. I just wanted to say thank you to Gerald for our amazing tour yesterday. I have written about it on a sewing inspiration facebook link I belong to and have had about 55 people come back wanting to know more so have directed them to your website. Thanks again."

Val Jones
 
 


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Experience the Glamour and Craftsmanship – Watch the Behind the Seams Promo

Click on the image above to watch this captivating video featuring our wonderful model showcasing two of our exquisite Ballroom dresses.

  • Witness the striking contrast between the elegance of the gowns and the bustling energy of our showroom and production facilities.
  • Walk alongside our stunning model as she brings glamour to the very heart of where creativity meets precision.
  • Get an exclusive peek into the magic behind the scenes, where iconic costumes for film, theatre, and dance come to life.

This unique journey offers a glimpse of what you can experience on our Behind the Seams tour.

👉 Click the image above to watch and step into our world of artistry and innovation!



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Step Inside the Magic – Watch Our Behind the Seams Video

 

Curious about what awaits you on the Behind the Seams tour? Click on the image above to watch a glimpse of the magic in action!

  • See one of our breathtaking Ballroom and Latin dresses, as featured on Strictly Come Dancing, discussed in intricate detail.
  • Hear exclusive insights from our team about the artistry, precision, and passion behind every creation.
  • Experience the buzz and excitement that make our tours so unforgettable.

This short video captures the essence of what makes DSI London’s Behind the Seams tour a must-visit for fashion lovers, sewing enthusiasts, and anyone fascinated by costume production.

👉 Click the image above and take your first step into the world of Behind the Seams!


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Now Booking - Behind the Seams Tours Through to June 2025

Due to overwhelming demand, we’re thrilled to extend the availability of our popular Behind the Seams tours through June 2025! This exclusive opportunity offers a firsthand glimpse into the artistry, craftsmanship, and dedication that define our performance wear.

Tour Dates:

  • When: First Tuesday of every month and most Saturdays at 2 PM
  • Duration: Approximately 2 hours

Secure your place today and experience the magic of costume-making at its finest.
👉 Book now at https://dsi-london.com/shop/behind-the-seams-tour/327.

Spaces are limited—don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind London fashion tour!


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