Bridesmaid Dress Sizes: Why The Difference?

Bridesmaids' dresses are often sized differently from regular clothing, and it is common for people to have to buy a larger size than they would usually wear. This is because wedding dress sizing has a long history that hasn't changed over time. The sizing is based on body types from decades ago, and as women's bodies have evolved, the wedding dress size charts have not. It is also due to European bridal sizing, which runs smaller than American sizing. This means that women often have to wear up to two sizes larger than their normal American size.

Bridesmaid dresses are sized differently to street clothing

Bridesmaid dresses are often sized differently to street clothing, and it is common for bridesmaids to wear a larger size than they would usually. This is because wedding dress sizing has a long history that hasn't changed over time. The tradition of European sizing means that sizes tend to run smaller than American ones.

There is no universal size chart for wedding dresses, and sizes differ depending on the designer. Bridesmaids may find that they have to go up at least one size from their everyday clothing, but this also depends on the style of the dress and their body shape. It is recommended that bridesmaids take their measurements and refer to the designer's size chart to determine their size.

The sizing difference is not due to European women being smaller than American women. Instead, these size guidelines are based on body types from decades ago, and have not evolved with women's body shapes. Street clothing sizes have changed over time, but bridal sizing has remained the same, leading to a discrepancy between the two.

It is important to note that alterations are often needed for bridesmaid dresses, as they are designed with room for movement. The cost of alterations depends on the fabric, design, timeframe, and location.

European sizing is smaller than American sizing

Wedding and bridesmaids' dresses are often sized differently from regular clothing. Bridesmaids' dresses are often sized differently from the street clothing sizes of those who wear them. This is because European sizing tends to run smaller than American sizing.

European clothing sizes for women typically follow a sequence of 34-36-38-40-42, with some brands offering sizes 32 or 44. For men, European clothing sizes usually follow a sequence of 46-48-50-52-54, with some brands offering sizes 44 or 56. In Europe, measurements are made in centimetres, with 1 cm equalling approximately 0.4 inches, resulting in higher numbers than those in inches.

American consumers' preference for looser, more comfortable clothing has influenced manufacturers to produce garments that are larger in size. This cultural inclination towards a more relaxed fit has resulted in American clothing manufacturers offering more room and comfort in their products, in contrast to the typically slimmer fits preferred in European markets. Vanity sizing practices in the United States, where clothing sizes are adjusted upwards to make consumers feel better about their size choices, have also contributed to the size discrepancy.

As a result of these differences, women may need to wear up to two sizes larger in European bridal sizing than their American size. For example, a US women's size 18 corresponds to a European size 48. Similarly, the average American men's size of US 40 translates to a European size 56. It is important to note that European sizes may vary depending on the country and brand, with Spanish, Italian, and French clothing tending to run smaller, while German and Scandinavian clothing is often true to size.

Bridal sizing hasn't changed over time

Bridal sizing has remained unchanged over time, often leaving brides-to-be confused and frustrated. Wedding dresses and bridesmaids' dresses are sized differently from everyday clothing, and this discrepancy can be shocking for those who are new to the world of bridal fashion. The long answer to the question "Do wedding dresses run small?" is yes.

The history of wedding dress sizing is rooted in European size traditions, where the leaders of the wedding industry have always been based, or at least started their businesses, in Europe. As a result, bridal sizing charts tend to run smaller than American sizes. Even American-based companies with European designers adhere to this sizing standard. This doesn't necessarily reflect the body types of European women today but is based on body types from decades ago. While everyday clothing sizes have evolved with time, bridal sizing has not kept up with these changes.

It's not uncommon for a woman who typically wears an American size 4 to need to try on a size 6 or 8 wedding dress. This difference is not due to vanity sizing in everyday clothing but rather the lack of evolution in bridal sizing. Additionally, wedding dresses are often altered, which is another reason why a larger size is usually preferred. There is no universal size chart for wedding dresses, and sizes can vary depending on the designer. As a result, it's challenging to know your exact dress size until you choose a specific designer and consult their size chart.

The same principles apply to bridesmaids' dresses. Sizing for these dresses also differs from street clothing sizes, and it's common to need a larger size than expected. Each designer has its own unique sizing, and it's essential to refer to their specific size charts. Alterations are often necessary for bridesmaids' dresses to achieve a flattering and optimal fit.

You'll likely need to go up a dress size

Bridesmaid dresses are often sized differently from regular clothing, so you may need to go up a dress size or two to get the right fit. This is because bridal sizing has not evolved in the same way as street clothing sizes, which have been subject to vanity sizing over the years. In other words, clothing manufacturers have assigned smaller numbers to the same measurements to flatter their customers.

However, wedding dress sizes, including bridesmaid dresses, have not changed as much over time. This is partly due to the fact that many leaders in the wedding industry have always been, or at least started off, in Europe, and European size charts run smaller than American ones. So, if you usually wear a size 8, don't be surprised if you need to try on a size 12 or 14 in bridesmaid dresses.

Additionally, it's important to remember that there is no universal size chart for wedding dresses. Sizing can vary depending on the designer, so you may need to go up a size or two for one designer's dresses, while another designer's dresses may fit you true to your regular size. Fabric choice can also play a role in determining size, as some fabrics have more stretch and flexibility than others.

When choosing a bridesmaid dress, it's recommended to take accurate measurements of your bust, waist, and hips, and to order your size based on the largest of these three measurements. It's also a good idea to consider the length of the dress, especially if you're tall or plan to wear high heels, as you may need to order extra length.

Keep in mind that alterations are often needed for bridesmaid dresses, so don't be discouraged if the size you need is larger than what you usually wear. It's more important to get a dress that fits well and can be altered if needed, rather than worrying about the number on the tag.

Alterations are often needed

Bridesmaids dresses are often sized differently from regular clothing, and alterations are almost always needed. This is because standard clothing sizes have evolved over time, but bridal sizing has not. In addition, bridal sizes are based on body types from decades ago, and as women's bodies have evolved, the wedding dress size charts have not.

When ordering a bridesmaid dress, it is important to take accurate measurements and order the size that fits the largest measurement. This is because it is much easier to take in a dress than to let it out. In addition, some fabrics have more stretch than others, which can also affect the size you need to order. For example, stretchier fabrics like Lux Jersey and Lux Velvet can accommodate a tighter fit, so you may want to size down. On the other hand, fabrics like Bridal Satin and Lux Chiffon have no stretch and cannot be let out without damaging the dress, so you may want to size up if your measurements fall between sizes.

Other factors that can affect the fit of a bridesmaid dress include the height of the wearer and the length of the dress. If you are tall and wearing a high heel, you may need to order extra length. However, keep in mind that adding extra length will likely require the dress to be hemmed to your desired length.

Ultimately, it is uncommon for a bridesmaid dress to fit flawlessly without alterations, so it is important to budget for these extra costs. The cost of alterations will depend on the fabric, design, timeframe, and location.

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