Rhiannon Hendricks
Wedding dress shopping can be a stressful experience for brides-to-be, and sizing is often a source of confusion and anxiety. Bridal sizing is different from regular clothing sizes and can vary from designer to designer, with dresses often running smaller than expected. This is because bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s, which has not kept up with modern-day sizing. While some brands, like Kennedy Blue, have adopted American sizing to make the shopping experience easier, most wedding dresses are not true to size. This means that brides often have to try on dresses that are one to three sizes larger than their usual clothing size, which can be demoralising. However, it's important to remember that the number on the label is not a reflection of your worth and that alterations can be made to ensure the perfect fit.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Bridal sizing vs. regular clothing sizing | Bridal sizing runs about two to three sizes larger than regular clothing sizes. |
| Bridal sizing consistency across designers | Sizing varies from designer to designer. Each designer will have their own unique size chart. |
| Determining bridal size | Bridal size is determined by taking measurements of the bust, waist, and hips, and ordering a size based on the largest of these three measurements. |
| Alterations | Alterations are typically recommended to achieve a perfect fit. It is easier to make a dress smaller than larger, so it is recommended to order a size up if in doubt. |
| Weight loss before the wedding | It is not recommended to order a dress size smaller than current body measurements, as weight loss or muscle gain may lead to unexpected changes in body measurements. |
| International sizing | Since many gowns are designed abroad, knowing international size equivalents can be helpful. For example, European sizes tend to run smaller than American sizes. |
| Sample sizes | Bridal shops typically carry a limited range of sample sizes for try-on appointments, which may not reflect the true size of the bride. |
| Accuracy of size charts | Designer size charts may vary slightly from the actual dress, with some dresses coming out bigger or smaller than the size indicated on the chart. |
| Online shopping | Some online bridal brands offer virtual fitting tools to help with size selection. |
| Plus-size options | There are dedicated plus-size bridal shops and designers that offer extended size ranges or specialize in curve collections. |
| Body image concerns | The number on the label is not indicative of beauty or worth. Sizing discrepancies between bridal and regular clothing are due to outdated traditions and should not be a cause for stress or insecurity. |
| Seamstress availability | Seamstresses may be difficult to find and are typically busiest from April through October, so it is recommended to book appointments well in advance. |
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What You'll Learn
Bridal sizing is different from regular clothing sizing
Bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s. Ready-to-wear sizing in the US has been adjusted over the years, but bridal dresses have remained true to the original size charts. This means that bridal sizing is often two sizes smaller than regular clothing. For example, a bride who wears a size 12 in regular clothing would typically need a bridal size 18.
Each wedding dress designer will have their own size chart, so a bridal size 10 will not be the same across all designers. This can be confusing for brides, but it is important to remember that the size on the tag is just a number. What matters is how the dress fits and flatters your body shape.
To ensure the best fit, your wedding dress will be ordered based on your body measurements. Bridal stylists will likely recommend ordering a gown size based on the bride's curviest measurement. It is also important to remember that alterations are almost always necessary to achieve the perfect fit. A skilled tailor can make adjustments to the dress to ensure it flatters your body and allows for ease of movement.
It is recommended to seek the help of a professional, such as a stylist at a bridal store, when taking your measurements. They can guide you in choosing the right size and style of dress for your body. It is also a good idea to get an estimate for any necessary alterations before committing to a purchase. This will help you prepare your budget and ensure you do not overspend on alterations.
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Bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing
Wedding dress sizing is a confusing affair, and it's important to remember that bridal sizing is very different from everyday clothing sizes. Bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s. This is because the wedding industry has traditionally been led by European designers, and even American companies often employ European designers, so they stick to the European sizing. This means that bridal sizes tend to be two to three sizes larger than regular clothing sizes. For example, a bride who usually wears a size 12 would need a bridal size 18.
It is important to note that bridal sizing is not standardised, and sizes vary from designer to designer. Each designer will have their own unique size chart, so it is crucial to refer to the designer's size chart before purchasing a dress. The size charts are based on body measurements, so it is important to take accurate measurements of your bust, waist, and hips and compare them to the designer's chart.
It is also worth noting that dresses may still require alterations even if you have followed the designer's size chart. This is because every body is different, and a perfect fit is hard to achieve straight off the rack. Seamstresses can alter dresses to fit an individual's body perfectly, so it is recommended to order a size up if you are unsure, as it is easier to make a dress smaller than larger.
While it is tempting to order a size down as motivation to lose weight or tone up before the wedding, this is not recommended. Losing weight does not always equate to shrinking in size, as you may be gaining muscle mass. Additionally, it is better to pay for alterations than risk ruining your dress with a cheap alternative.
In summary, bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing, which is larger than American sizing and differs from modern-day sizing. This, combined with the variety of size charts used by different designers, makes for a confusing shopping experience. However, by taking accurate measurements and referring to the designer's size chart, brides can navigate this confusing system and find a dress that fits them perfectly, even if alterations are required.
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Bridal sizes vary from designer to designer
Bridal sizing is very different from everyday clothing sizes. A size 4 in everyday clothes, for instance, usually corresponds to a bridal size 8 to 12. This discrepancy is due to the structure of bridal garments and the fact that there is no universal sizing chart for bridal designers. Bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s, which has not changed over time. Even American designers tend to stick to European sizing. As a result, bridal sizes vary from designer to designer, and it is essential to refer to their unique sizing chart.
Each designer's sizing chart differs slightly from the next, and a bride may find herself ordering a dress two to three sizes up from her usual size. For example, a bride who wears a size 12 in regular clothing would typically need a bridal size 18. This can be confusing and worrying for brides, but it is entirely normal. It is recommended that brides take their measurements at home or at a bridal salon and then compare them to the designer's sizing chart. However, bridal salons usually only carry a few sample sizes for try-on appointments, typically ranging from bridal size 6 to 10.
It is also important to remember that bridal sizing does not define a person's worth or beauty. Every body is unique, and tailoring is crucial to achieving the perfect fit. Alterations are almost always necessary, and seamstresses can be hard to find, so it is essential to book well in advance. While it is easier to make a dress smaller than larger, it is not advisable to order a dress size smaller than your body measurements. This is because muscle is denser than fat, so a bride could be gaining muscle mass while toning up for her wedding, resulting in larger body measurements even if her body looks leaner.
Furthermore, alterations fees are not based on the amount of fabric removed from a dress, so ordering a smaller size will not save money in the long run. Instead, it is best to order a size up and ensure that the dress is altered to fit the bride's exact specifications. Ultimately, the most important thing is how the bride feels in the dress on her wedding day, not the number on the tag.
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It's easier to make a dress smaller than bigger
Wedding dress sizes are not standardised and can vary from designer to designer. Bridal sizing is usually two to three sizes larger than regular clothing sizes. This is because bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s. As a result, brides often find themselves confused and anxious about their wedding dress size.
It is recommended that brides do not order a dress size smaller than their body measurements. This is because it is always easier to make a dress smaller than it is to make a dress bigger. If you are unsure, it is better to order a size up and then take it in if needed.
There are a few ways to make a dress smaller. One way is to cut the extra fabric from the side seam lines, ensuring that the style does not change. Another way is to let out the seams by sewing each seam with smaller seam allowances, which gives more fabric at each stitching line. However, this method can be time-consuming and may require a lot of seam ripping, especially if the dress has serged seams.
On the other hand, making a dress bigger can be more challenging. One way to do this is to add extra material, but this can be tricky and may not always be possible, depending on the amount of extra fabric needed. Additionally, certain fabrics such as chiffon, organza, and jersey can be harder to work with. Therefore, it is generally recommended to seek help from a professional seamstress or tailor, especially if major alterations are needed.
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Order a size that fits your current body, not your goal weight
Wedding dress sizes are not standardised and are not the same as regular clothing sizes. Bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s, and runs about two to three sizes larger than regular clothing. This means that a bride who wears a size 12 in regular clothing would be a bridal size 18.
Because of this, it is important to order a wedding dress that fits your current body, rather than a goal weight. Many brides try to lose weight before their wedding, but this can lead to unnecessary stress and additional costs for alterations. Even if you do lose weight, it may come off different parts of your body unevenly, so some parts of the dress may still be too tight.
It is also worth noting that bridal sizing varies from designer to designer. Each designer will have their own size chart, so you can't expect a bridal size 10 to be the same across all designers. Therefore, it is important to take your measurements and refer to the designer's unique bridal gown sizing chart before purchasing a wedding dress.
If you are unsure about your size, it is best to seek help from a professional, such as a stylist at a bridal store. They can help you take your measurements and determine the best size for you. It is also a good idea to get an estimate for any necessary alterations before committing to a purchase. This way, you can have an idea of how much you will be spending overall.
While it is possible to take in a dress that is too large, it is much easier to complete alterations on a dress that is too big than one that is too small. Therefore, if you are in doubt, it is generally recommended to order a size up.
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Frequently asked questions
Wedding dresses typically run one to three sizes smaller than regular clothing. This is because bridal sizing is based on outdated traditional European sizing from the 1940s.
The most accurate way to determine your wedding dress size is by taking your measurements and then comparing them to the designer's unique bridal gown sizing chart. Your dress will be ordered based on your body measurements, typically dictated by the measurements of your bust, waist, and hips.
It is recommended to order a size that fits your current body, not your "goal weight". It is much easier for a seamstress to take a dress in than to let it out.
Yes, even in your correct size, most wedding dresses will require alterations to fit seamlessly. It is recommended to get an estimate on dress alterations beforehand.
