- Choosing Sizes for Wedding Gowns and Bridesmaid Dresses:
It's important, if you take your own measurements and go by the designer's size chart,
that you measure properly. We can help in this area, but we cannot choose the size for
you. Proper fit is subjective and individual, one person may like a dress tighter than
another for example. You will need to choose the size you feel most comfortable with,
given your measurements. Remember, every designer has its own size chart and normal dress
size is not an indication here at all.
Remember also, gowns are not custom-made; therefore you need to order to fit the largest
part of the body and take it in where it's too large. If a dress is too small it
could be a real problem; if it is too large a seamstress can usually alter it to fit.
Sizes usually can not be changed once the order has
been placed. The final choice for size is yours. The information below is intended
to help you make the best choice.
How to Measure Bust:
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- Measure at the widest part of the back, straight across the top of the bust, NOT under
the bust line. The type of bra worn, or whether one is worn at all, can make a
difference. Do NOT use your bra size (an a-cup is much different from a d-cup).
How to Measure Waist: Measure at your natural waistline.
Holding stomach in would be a mistake, as would a skin-tight measurement. Leave a
finger's width under the tape so it can move.
How to Measure Hips: Measure at the largest part of the hip.
The tips of your fingers should be the area to measure, when you rest your hands on
your hips and put your thumbs at your natural waist. Only in the case of a straight
skirt or when the hip is several sizes larger than the other measurements, will a hip
measurement be necessary to determine size.
Extra Length: Most bridesmaid dresses offer extra length.
Most factories suggest that you should consider ordering extra length if you are
5'8" or taller with shoes on. Other factors are heel of shoe, hem height off
floor, etc. Extra length is usually an additional 5" of fabric added to the
dress, and you will need to hem the dress to length desired in almost every case.
Remember - if not sure, it's better to have too much length and be able to shorten
than to have a dress that's too short and can't be let out. Extra length charges
will vary by designer; our size charts for each designer (at left) will give you more
specific information and will list the cost for extra length.
Extra Size: Most designers charge for extra size on dresses size 18 and
up. Extra size charges will vary by designer; our size charts for each designer,
below will list the cost for extra size.
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- Please be aware
that sizing is not an exact science and alterations by an experienced
seamstress will almost always be necessary for a proper fit.
