Junior Rasmussen
Wedding dress sizing is a confusing topic, with bridal sizes running about two to three sizes larger than regular street clothing. This is because bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s, which hasn't evolved with the times. As a result, a bride who wears a size 12 in regular clothing would typically wear a bridal size 18. This discrepancy can be frustrating for brides-to-be, who often feel confused and even irked by the sizing on wedding dresses. However, it's important to remember that sizing is just a number and the most important thing is to feel confident and beautiful in your skin on your wedding day.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Bridal sizing | Runs about two to three sizes larger than regular street clothing |
| Bridal dress sizes | Differ from designer to designer |
| Determining size | Based on the largest measurement (bust, waist, hips) |
| Universal size chart | Does not exist for wedding dresses |
| European bridal sizing | Runs smaller than American sizing |
| Alterations | Easier to make a dress smaller than larger |
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What You'll Learn
Wedding dress sizes are based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s
Wedding dress sizes are typically smaller than regular street clothing sizes. This is because wedding dress sizes are based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s. While ready-to-wear clothing sizes in the US have been adjusted over the years, wedding dress sizes have remained true to these older size charts. This means that a bride who wears a size 12 in regular clothing would be around a bridal size 18.
The size charts for wedding dresses are based on body types from decades ago. As women's body types have evolved, the wedding dress size charts have not. This is why there is often a discrepancy between the size of a wedding dress and the size of everyday clothing. For example, while you may wear a size 4 in jeans, you will likely need a size 6 or 8 wedding dress.
Wedding dresses are also rarely bought off-the-rack and typically require alterations. This means that a larger size is often desired, as it is easier for a seamstress to take in a dress than it is to let it out. When ordering a wedding dress, it is important to take accurate measurements and consider the largest measurement taken. For example, if your waist and bust measure an 8 but your hips are a 12, a stylist might order a size 12 so that it fits your hips and can be taken in at the waist and bust.
Every bridal designer uses a different size chart based on their own patterns, so it is important to refer to a designer's unique bridal gown sizing chart before purchasing a wedding dress from them. It is also recommended to call your bridal salon before your appointment to ask what sample sizes they have available to try on.
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Designers don't accommodate split sizing
Wedding dress sizes are not standardised and differ from designer to designer. This is because there is no universal size chart for wedding dresses. Bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s, which has not evolved with the times. Designers are accustomed to pattern-making from the past, making it challenging to transition to modern-day sizing. This results in wedding dresses that run about two to three sizes larger than regular street clothing.
While shopping for a wedding dress, it is common for brides to be surprised by their size, often being handed a dress that is two sizes larger than their usual. This is because bridal sizing is based on outdated body types, with measurements taken for the bust, waist, and hips, and the largest of these three measurements determining the dress size. This is done to make it easier for the seamstress to alter the dress to fit the bride's body perfectly.
However, this system can be discouraging for brides, who may feel insecure about their size. It is important to remember that wedding dress sizing is not rooted in reality and that the number on the tag does not define one's worth. Unfortunately, designers often do not accommodate split sizing, where a person may have different measurements for their bust, waist, and hips, resulting in a dress that may not fit perfectly off the rack.
While some designers, like Anna Elyse, offer "split sizing," allowing bridesmaids to choose dresses that accommodate their measurements, this feature is usually only available from smaller to larger sizes and not in reverse. This means that if a person's bust and waist measure a size 8 but their hips are a size 12, they will be recommended a size 12 dress to fit their hips, and the seamstress will alter the rest of the dress. This results in a highly customizable dress that can be tailored to the individual's body.
It is recommended that brides take accurate measurements with the help of a professional stylist or at home with a flexible measuring tape. They should also keep in mind that it is easier to make a dress smaller than larger, so if in doubt, it is better to order a size up.
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Bridal sizing hasn't evolved like street clothing
Wedding dress sizing is different from regular street sizing. Bridal sizing runs about two to three sizes larger than regular street clothing. This means that a bride who wears a size 12 in regular clothing would be around a bridal size 18. Bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s. As women's body types have evolved, the wedding dress size charts have not. This is why there is a discrepancy between the two. While you may wear a size 4 in jeans, you will likely be prompted to try on a size 6 or 8 wedding dress.
The method is quite outdated, and bridal designers and dressmakers are generally accustomed to pattern-making from the past, making it relatively difficult and time-consuming to transfer over to modern-day sizing. Wedding dress sizes haven't vanity-sized as much as regular clothes have. Wedding dress sizing has a long history that hasn't changed over time. Although styles evolve, the wedding industry as a whole is somewhat stuck on past traditions.
When it comes to bridal sizing, it's not about the number, but your measurements. Bridal shops will typically order a wedding dress in a few different sizes for brides to try on during their bridal appointments. Your bridal stylist may recommend a larger size during your gown fitting so there's enough material to alter and take in later. It's easier for the seamstress who does your alterations to remove fabric from your dress than it is to add it.
When ordering online, always take extra time to make sure you're measuring yourself accurately. If you fall between sizes, order the size that fits your largest measurement.
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Wedding dresses are almost always altered
When ordering a wedding dress, it is recommended to order a size that fits the largest measurement. This is because it is easier for a seamstress to take in a dress than to let it out. For example, if a bride's waist and bust measure an 8 but her hips are a 12, she might order a size 12 so that the dress fits her hips perfectly, and then have a seamstress take in the rest of the dress. This ensures that the dress is customizable and can be tailored to her body.
Additionally, there is no universal size chart for wedding dresses, and sizes can vary from designer to designer. This makes it important to reference a designer's unique bridal gown sizing chart before purchasing a dress. It is also recommended to seek help from a professional stylist or bridal salon when taking measurements to ensure accuracy.
While it can be disappointing to see a larger size on the tag, it's important to remember that sizing is just a number. The most important thing is to feel confident and beautiful in the dress. Alterations are a normal part of the wedding dress process and help ensure that the dress fits flawlessly on the big day.
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Wedding dress sizes don't define your worth or beauty
Wedding dress sizes are often inconsistent and confusing. This is because bridal sizing is not standardised across the industry, with sizes differing from designer to designer. Bridal sizing also tends to run smaller than regular street clothing sizes, with brides usually needing to order one to three sizes larger than their normal clothing size. This discrepancy can be attributed to various factors, including the structure of bridal garments and the fact that bridal designers do not use a universal sizing chart.
However, it's important to remember that these sizes do not define your worth or beauty. Every body is unique, and your wedding dress should be tailored to fit you flawlessly. When it comes to bridal fashion, one of the most confusing aspects for brides-to-be is understanding bridal sizing. It can be tricky, and more often than not, brides should expect their bridal size to be larger than their regular clothing size. This can be frustrating and even discouraging for brides, who may feel confused or insecure about their size.
It's important to keep in mind that your wedding dress size is just a number. What matters most is how you feel in your dress on your wedding day, not the tiny number on a hidden tag. Embrace your unique measurements and trust that your tailor will work their magic to ensure your gown fits perfectly. Remember, the size on the tag is not a reflection of your beauty or worth. It's simply a starting point for alterations to create a dress that celebrates your unique body.
When ordering a wedding dress, it's crucial to take accurate measurements. Consider seeking help from a professional stylist or bridal store employee, who can assist in taking your bust, waist, and hip measurements. Your dress will then be ordered based on your largest measurement, as it's easier for a seamstress to take a dress in than to let it out. By ordering a size that accommodates your largest measurement, you ensure that your dress can be customised and tailored to your body.
Ultimately, your wedding dress should make you feel confident and beautiful. Don't let a number define your worth or how much you deserve to be celebrated on your special day. Choose a gown that makes you feel like the beautiful bride you are, and trust that your bridal stylist and tailor will help you achieve perfection.
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Frequently asked questions
Bridal sizing runs about two to three sizes larger than regular clothing. This is because bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s, which hasn't changed over time. Women's body types have evolved since then, but bridal sizes have not.
When taking your measurements, use a soft, flexible measuring tape and consider seeking help from a professional stylist. Your dress will then be ordered to your largest measurement. It is also recommended that you order a size up, as it is easier to make a dress smaller than it is to make it larger.
Bridal sizing is not standardized and differs from designer to designer. It is important to focus on how the dress fits and feels rather than the number on the tag.
