Size Guide
Fit With Confidence
Formal Dress Size Guide
Your usual clothing size is only a starting point. For designer gowns, current body measurements and the exact brand chart are what matter.
How to Measure
- Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape level across your back.
- Natural waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your torso without pulling the tape tight.
- Hips: Stand with your feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat.
- Length: Wear the heel height planned for the event and measure from the appropriate shoulder or waist point for the dress.
For the best result
- Use a soft measuring tape.
- Wear lightweight clothing or planned undergarments.
- Keep the tape level and comfortably close.
- Ask another person to measure you.
- Measure twice and record in inches.
Avoid these mistakes
- Ordering by jeans or everyday dress size.
- Using an old measurement.
- Pulling the tape too tightly.
- Assuming two designers fit the same.
- Choosing the smaller size simply because of the number.
If You Are Between Sizes
Start with the measurement that corresponds to the most fitted area of the dress. A fitted mermaid gown may require closer attention to bust, waist and hips, while an A-line skirt may offer more room through the hip. Fabric stretch, boning, cups, seams and embellishment also affect the safest choice.
It is often easier for an experienced alterations professional to take in a dress than to create room where the fabric, seams or beading do not allow it. Do not assume every gown can be let out.
Before You Order
- Open the size chart for the exact designer and style.
- Check whether the fabric has stretch.
- Review the return or final-sale status.
- Allow time for delivery and alterations.
- Contact us when measurements fall into different size columns.