How to Measure for a Wedding Dress
Getting the right measurements for your wedding dress is essential for achieving a good fit. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to measure.
Please contact us if you have any questions or need guidance before ordering.
Also, see below for more information on how we grade the condition of our sample dresses.
Materials Needed:
Soft measuring tape (with inches)
Mirror
Notepad and pen
A friend or family member to assist
Step 1: Prepare for Measuring
Wear the undergarments you intend to wear on your wedding day, such as a supportive bra and any shapewear. This ensures your measurements are taken with the same foundation you'll have on your special day.
Step 2: Take Accurate Measurements
Enlist a friend or family member to assist you with measuring. Stand naturally with good posture in front of a mirror. Use a soft measuring tape, keeping it comfortably snug without pulling too tightly.
Bust: Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust, ensuring the tape is parallel to the ground and passes over the shoulder blades, while keeping your arms relaxed at your sides.
Waist: Measure the narrowest part of your waist, usually above your belly button and below your ribcage.
Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks. This is typically 7-9 inches below your waist.
Step 3: Record and Review Your Measurements
Write down each measurement accurately. Double-check to ensure there are no errors.
Keep in mind that bridal sizing isn’t like typical street wear sizing. While you may be a size 4-6 in jeans, you’re likely a bridal size 8-10; and if you’re a size 14-16 in jeans, you’re likely a bridal size 18-20. Don’t worry about it - sizing is just a number.
Step 4: Compare the Sizing
Different designers and brands have varying sizing. Compare your body measurements to the body measurements of the dress you're interested in. Your measurements must be the same or smaller than the measurements of the dress you like, as dresses can be tailored to fit. If you are unsure about the sizing of a particular dress, please contact Stella’s for advice.
Step 5: Consider a Professional Fitting
Consider scheduling an in-store shopping appointment to try the dress on. Stella’s has experienced staff who will take your measurements accurately and offer personalized advice.
Step 6: Leave Room for Alterations
Most wedding dresses will require some level of alterations to achieve the perfect fit. Leave a bit of wiggle room in your measurements to accommodate these adjustments. Budget and plan for these alterations accordingly.
Step 7: Make Your Purchase
Once you've measured accurately, confirmed your dress’s sizing, and reviewed Stella’s purchase policies, you may proceed with your purchase.
By following this guide, you'll enhance the chances of “finding the one” and ensure you’ll look and feel amazing on your big day.