How to Measure for Your Wedding Dress

Most of our gowns are made to order, which means your dress is cut based on your measurements against the designer's own size chart. Taking accurate measurements is the single most important step in ordering the right size, and it only takes ten minutes. Here is how to do it properly.

Before you start

  • Use a soft fabric tape measure, not a metal DIY one
  • Ask someone to help you. Measuring yourself nearly always distorts the numbers
  • Wear the underwear you plan to wear on the day, or something similarly fitted. Never measure over jeans or a jumper
  • Stand naturally in front of a mirror, breathe normally and keep your arms relaxed at your sides
  • Note your measurements in both centimetres and inches, as designers chart them differently

Bust

Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape level all the way around your back. Wear the bra you intend to wear with your dress, or none if your gown has a built in corset or bust cups. Your bra size is not your bust measurement, so always use the tape.

Waist

This is your natural waist, the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above your belly button. If you are unsure where it sits, bend gently to one side and note where your body creases. Measure there with the tape snug but comfortable.

Hips

Stand with your feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips and bottom. This is lower than most people expect, so do not measure at your hip bones.

A note on bridal sizing. Bridal sizes run differently to high street sizes, and every designer uses their own chart, so the size on the label may be higher than you are used to. This is completely normal and nothing to worry about. The number is just a starting point for your seamstress.

Choosing your size

Compare your three measurements against the size chart linked on each dress page. If your measurements fall across more than one size, order the size that fits your largest measurement. It is straightforward to take a gown in, but rarely possible to let one out. Almost every made to order gown benefits from final alterations for a perfect fit, and our own alterations studio, Thread and Veil, can look after this for you.

Still unsure?

We are always happy to help. Message us on WhatsApp at 07494 202544 with your measurements and the gown you love, and we will confirm the right size to order. Or book an appointment and we will measure you properly here in the studio.