How to take your dress measurements

8/12/2016

How to measure dress size for the most flattering fit

Bust size: Measure around your chest, at the fullest point of the bust (not under the bust).

Waist size: While standing up straight, bend at the waist to one side. The crease that forms is where your natural waist is located; measure there.

Hip size: Standing with your feet together, measure around the fullest part of the hips.

Hollow-to-Hem Measurement (Length)

Your hollow-to-hem measurement is determined by measuring from the center of your collarbone (hollow) to the bottom (hem) of your dress. We highly recommend that you have a formal wear professional perform this measurement.

It’s very important that you wear shoes with a similar heel height to those you will be wearing with your gown, and you will also need to take into consideration the fullness of your gown’s skirt. For example, if your gown is an A-line with a full skirt, you will need to move the measuring tape away from the body to ensure that your gown will be the correct length.

Most dresses come in a standard hollow-to-hem measurement, based on the size of the dress, which varies from designer to designer.

How to measure dress size and read a size chart

Compare your bust, waist, and hip measurements to the designer’s size chart. It’s very important that you order the largest size that corresponds to your measurements. For example, if your measurements are as follows:

Your bust fits a size 12

Your waist fits a size 10

Your hips fits a size 8

We would advise that you order a size 12, and get the dress altered down to custom fit your body. Ordering the size that fits your largest measurement will ensure that your dress has the most flattering fit possible.

On each product page, you’ll find a bridesmaid or bridal dress size chart for the designer of the product you are viewing. The designer's size chart outlines their specific standard sizing measurements. Every designer is different; therefore, every size chart is different. Some designers don’t allow us to place their sizing information on our website. For sizing information from these designers, please email us at info@weddingshoppeinc.com.

Wedding apparel is typically sized differently than retail clothing, so it’s not uncommon to find yourself requiring wedding apparel one or more sizes larger than your normal dress size.