A phone call comes before the dress. That is how Natalie M. works: the Leawood shop runs exclusively by appointment, and one of its stylists does a detailed phone consultation ahead of every visit, so the fitting room is already pulled toward your taste, budget and event when you arrive. Same-day appointments may be available. Shoppers under 18 need a parent or guardian at the appointment. Virtual appointments are offered alongside in-person ones. Jewelry and accessories are sold in the shop as well.
The business has been selling formalwear since 1973 and sits on the north side of Town Center Plaza, next to Barnes & Noble, the open-air shopping center that fronts 119th Street. Nearby schools include Blue Valley North, Blue Valley Northwest, Shawnee Mission South and St. Thomas Aquinas, on the northeast Kansas side of the metro.
The prom wall, by label
Natalie M. groups its formal side by occasion, and the prom list runs long.
Homecoming adds
Evening
- MNM Couture
- Cameron Blake
- Christina Wu Elegance
- Montage
Homecoming mixes its three in with several of the prom names, Sophia Thomas among them. Brides have a department of their own, with nine bridal labels that include Christina Wu Brides, L'Amour and La Perle by Calla Blanche, Sophia Tolli and Modest by Mon Cheri. Bridesmaids have their own collection, and veils are sold with the jewelry.
Pageant is a real department here rather than a side rack. The shop has separate collections for Miss and Mrs. contestants, teen pageants and little girls, plus a couture category, and the store describes the studio as a destination for contestants "of all ages and sizes."
We believe that everyone, no matter age or size, deserves the very best throughout their shopping experience.
The line squares with a rack that runs from Little Miss pageant dresses to evening gowns.
Ordering, payment and the fine print
The store gives two arrival windows once a dress is ordered.
Arrival after ordering
In-stock colors and sizes, some designers
2 to 3 wks
Most dresses
8 to 12 wks
Sizing happens at the time of the order, and prom special orders are paid in full when you place them.
Good to know: everything is final sale, with no refunds or exchanges for any reason. Layaway is listed as available, and initial deposits can go on cash, check or card. Alterations happen outside the shop, and stylists hand out a referral to a seamstress.
Menswear has its own desk.
The menswear desk
Suits and tuxedos, rented or sold
Jackets
More than 40
Vests and ties
Over 120 options
Events
Prom and homecoming among them
Natalie M. questions from Leawood prom shoppers
Can a prom date get a tux at Natalie M.?
Yes. The store rents and sells suits and tuxedos for prom, homecoming and weddings, with more than 40 jacket styles and over 120 vests and ties to mix and match. Tux rentals are paid in full when booked.
How early should a prom dress be ordered?
Most dresses arrive 8 to 12 weeks after ordering, the store says. In-stock colors and sizes from some designers arrive in about 2 to 3 weeks.