Lyla Dejesus
Wedding dress sizes can be confusing. While some designers manufacture split-size dresses, most do not. Instead, they will take your bust, waist, and hip measurements and order the dress to your largest measurement. This is because it is easier for a seamstress to remove fabric from your dress than it is to add it. Wedding dress sizes also vary between designers and styles, so it is important to consult the size chart of the designer you are interested in. Additionally, wedding dress sizes are typically smaller than regular clothing sizes, so you may need to size up.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wedding dress sizing | Varies by country, designer, and style |
| Bridal sizing | Differs from typical street wear sizing |
| Determining size | Based on largest measurement (bust, waist, hip) |
| Split sizing | Not commonly accommodated by designers |
| Customization | Alterations ensure a perfect fit |
| Sample sizes | May not be inclusive of all body types |
| Size charts | Provided by designers for reference |
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What You'll Learn
Wedding dress sizes vary by designer, country, and silhouette
Wedding dress sizes can be confusing, as they vary by designer, country, and silhouette. Bridal sizing is not the same as typical streetwear sizing, and sizes often differ between designers. This means that you might be a size 12 in one designer and a size 14 in another. Some designers may cut their dresses true to size, while others may cut them bigger or smaller. Wedding dress sizes also vary by country, with different size charts for the UK, US, and Spain, for example.
When it comes to finding your wedding dress size, it's important to take accurate measurements of your bust, waist, and hips. These measurements can then be compared to the size chart provided by the designer. It's crucial to consult the size chart of the specific designer you're interested in, as each designer has its own unique size chart. Even if you have your measurements done and follow the designer's size chart, alterations may still be needed to achieve a perfect fit.
In addition to designer and country, wedding dress sizes can also vary by silhouette or style. Depending on the style of the dress, you might need to size up or down. For example, if you're usually a size 6, you might need to look at sizes 8, 10, or even 12 for a wedding dress. This is because wedding dresses often run smaller than regular clothes. Additionally, some designers create split-size dresses with different sizes for the top and bottom, while others do not.
To navigate the complexities of wedding dress sizing, it's recommended to start looking for your dress at least three months before the wedding. This allows time for multiple fittings and any necessary alterations. It's also a good idea to consult with bridal stylists or boutiques that offer size-inclusive options and can accommodate different body shapes and sizes. With their expertise, you can find a dress that can be tailored to your unique body shape, ensuring a perfect fit for your special day.
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Your largest measurement determines the size
Wedding dress sizing can be a tricky business. Bridal sizing is not the same as typical streetwear sizing, and sizes can vary between designers and styles. This means that you might be a size 4-6 in jeans but a bridal size 8-10, and if you're a size 14-16, you're likely to be a bridal size 18-20.
When it comes to determining your wedding dress size, your largest measurement will typically dictate the size you choose. This is because it is much easier for a seamstress to alter a dress and make it smaller than it is to let it out. For example, if your waist and bust are an 8 but your hips are a 12, your stylist might order you a size 12 to ensure a perfect fit at your hips, and then take in the rest of the dress.
While some designers do manufacture split-size dresses, with different sizes for the top and bottom, the majority do not. So, if you need a size 4 on top but an 8 for your hips, you'll likely be ordered a size 8 and have it altered to fit your exact specifications. This means that your dress will be highly customizable and can be tailored perfectly to your body.
It's important to carefully compare your measurements to the size chart provided by the designer. Wedding dress sizes can vary greatly, so it's always a good idea to get measured and consult with a stylist or seamstress to ensure your dress fits like a glove. Remember, sizing is just a number! The most important thing is that you feel confident and comfortable on your big day.
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Bridal sizes differ from streetwear sizes
Bridal sizing also varies from designer to designer. Each designer has their own unique bridal gown sizing chart, and sizes can differ depending on the fabric and silhouette of the gown. For instance, an A-line dress doesn't hug the hips, so a bridal stylist may opt for a size that fits the bust and waist with less emphasis on the hip measurement. Custom-made gowns will also have their own sizing charts, which may differ even further from typical bridal sizes.
When buying a wedding dress, your dress will be ordered according to your largest measurement. Designers don't usually accommodate "split sizes", so if your bust is a size 4 but your hips a size 8, a size 8 dress will be ordered and altered to fit your exact specifications.
It's important to remember that bridal sizing is just a number, and you shouldn't let it define your worth or how much you deserve to be celebrated on your wedding day.
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Dresses are usually ordered larger and altered to fit
Wedding dress sizing varies between designers and styles, making it difficult to know what size to purchase. When taking measurements, stylists will often determine the size based on the largest measurement, ordering a larger dress than expected. This is because it is easier for a seamstress to alter a dress to make it smaller than larger.
For example, if your waist and bust are an 8 but your hips are a 12, a stylist may order a 12 to ensure a perfect fit at the hips, leaving the rest of the dress to be taken in. This means that the dress is highly customisable and can be tailored to the individual's body. It is also important to note that even with accurate measurements, dresses may still require alterations to achieve a perfect fit.
It is recommended that brides head to their wedding dress fitting no later than three months before the wedding to allow for two to three fittings. This ensures that the dress fits perfectly. Bridal boutiques are increasingly offering more size-inclusive options, but it is still important to contact potential shops in advance to ensure they can accommodate your needs.
When purchasing a wedding dress, it is crucial to take accurate measurements of the bust, waist, and hips, and compare them to the size chart provided by the designer. Wedding dress sizes are not the same as regular clothing sizes, and dresses often run small, so it is common to size up.
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Plus-size and midsize brides may struggle with sample sizes
Wedding dress sizes are not standardised and differ from regular street sizing. Bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s, which is why sometimes your dress size will match your pant size, and other times it will differ. This means that a bride who wears a size 12 in regular clothes would be around a bridal size 18. Plus-size and midsize brides may struggle with sample sizes, as bridal salons often offer limited sizes. This can make it impossible to order a dress that works for you when you can't even fit into a sample. Many gowns are not available in sizes that curvy or plus-size brides can try on or even get over their heads.
To avoid disappointment, it is recommended that brides contact potential bridal shops in advance to see how and if they can accommodate brides who aren't within the sample size range. Some salons offer samples in a standard bridal size 10 or 12, while others provide special undergarments or clip the wedding dress on the bride's body without fully zipping it. Some brides opt to call ahead to check if they can fit into sample sizes, while others choose to search for dresses on different body types online.
It can be challenging for plus-size and midsize brides to envision themselves in a wedding dress when so few bridal images reflect their body type. However, there is a growing number of designers and salons offering more size-inclusive options for brides of all shapes and sizes. For example, the founder and CEO of Sparkle Bridal Couture in Sacramento, California, caters to people who wear sizes 14 to 30-plus. Additionally, some boutiques start at plus sizes, and stylists can help interpret what you like about certain dresses and suggest options you may not have thought of.
Ultimately, bridal sizing is just a number, and you shouldn't let it define your worth or how much you deserve to be celebrated on your wedding day.
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Frequently asked questions
Your stylist will help you determine which size to order based on your measurements and the designer you choose. It's important to compare your measurements to the size chart provided by the designer.
Wedding dress sizes are not the same as regular clothing sizes and can vary greatly depending on the designer or brand. Bridal sizing tends to run smaller than streetwear sizing.
Wedding dresses can be altered to fit your body perfectly. Your dress will likely be ordered according to your largest measurement, and a seamstress can take in the rest of the dress.
You should head to your wedding dress fitting no later than three months before the wedding. This allows time for multiple fittings to ensure your dress fits perfectly.
When taking your measurements, wear the same undergarments that you plan to wear on your wedding day. This will ensure that your measurements are as accurate as possible.
