Deborah Chan
Wedding dress sizes can be confusing and vary from designer to designer, country to country, and style to style. For instance, a size 38 in a wedding dress could be equivalent to a UK size 10 or a US size 6. Bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s, which is why it often differs from the sizing of regular clothing. Wedding dress sizes also depend on the cut and silhouette of the dress. It is important to take accurate measurements of your bust, waist, and hips, and compare them to the size chart provided by the designer. Most bridal samples have a B cup size, but the cup size increases as the dress size does.
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What You'll Learn
Bridal sizing is different from regular clothing sizes
When it comes to bridal fashion, one of the most confusing aspects for brides-to-be is understanding bridal sizing. It can be tricky as bridal sizing almost always runs small. A bride who normally wears a size 6 in everyday clothing may find herself fitting into a size 8 or 10 in bridal wear. This is entirely normal and nothing to be concerned about. It is important to remember that bridal sizing is not standardized and does not define your worth or beauty. Every body is unique, so embrace your unique measurements, and trust that your tailor will work their magic to ensure that your gown fits flawlessly.
The most accurate way to determine your wedding dress size is by taking your measurements at home or at a bridal salon, then comparing them to the designer's wedding dress size chart. Bridal salons generally only carry a few sample sizes for try-on appointments, usually ranging from a bridal size 6 to 10. While referencing a designer's bridal dress size chart is a crucial step in getting the best fit, alterations are often still needed to ensure the gown is just right for your wedding day.
It is important to focus on how the dress fits and feels rather than getting hung up on the number on the tag, which will not represent your shape. Tailoring is a crucial step in achieving the perfect fit. A skilled tailor can make adjustments to the dress, ensuring that it flatters your body shape and allows for ease of movement. Wedding dress sizing is difficult, and sample sizes can help in this regard. Some designers are completely custom and don't have a size chart, so your dress will be made based on your measurements after you try on a sample size.
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Bridal sizing varies between designers
Bridal sizing is a confusing topic, and it's not surprising when it differs from everyday clothing sizes and varies from designer to designer. This variation is due to the lack of a universal sizing chart for bridal designers, with almost every designer's sizing chart differing slightly. This is because bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s, while ready-to-wear sizing in the US has been updated over time. As a result, bridal sizing is typically two to three sizes larger than regular clothing sizes.
The structure of bridal garments also contributes to the size discrepancy. For example, a bride with larger hips than the bust line who wants a full-skirt gown may opt for a smaller size to achieve a better fit in the bust and waist. Additionally, the cut of the dress can impact the size; a fitted dress may require ordering to the largest measurement and subsequent alterations for a perfect fit.
To navigate this confusing landscape, it is recommended to take measurements at home or a bridal salon and compare them to the designer's unique sizing chart. Sample sizes in bridal salons typically range from bridal size 6 to 10, but it is advisable to call ahead to confirm the available sizes. While referencing the designer's sizing chart is essential, alterations are often still needed to ensure the gown is perfect for the big day.
It is important to remember that size does not define an individual's worth or beauty. The most critical aspect of choosing a wedding dress is feeling confident and beautiful. Instead of focusing on the number, pay attention to how the dress fits and feels.
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Bridal sizing varies between countries
Bridal sizing is not standardised and differs from country to country. Wedding dress sizes in the US, for example, are known for their vanity sizing, which means that a bride wearing a size 12 dress in the US would need a size 18 in the UK. This is because bridal sizing in the UK is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s.
In the US, bridal sizing is often two to three sizes larger than regular clothing sizes. A bride who normally wears a size 6 may find herself fitting into a bridal size 8 or 10. This is because bridal designers do not have one universal sizing chart, and each designer's sizing chart differs slightly from the next. This is also true of bridal sizing in the UK, where sizing varies from designer to designer.
European and Australian bridal designers also use their own sizing, which differs greatly from American sizing. This means that a bride may have to order a gown that is two to three sizes larger than what they are used to.
It is important to remember that the size on the tag does not represent your shape. Bridal stylists will likely order a gown size based on the bride's curviest measurement, and tailoring will be needed to ensure the perfect fit.
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Bridal sizes are based on traditional European sizing
Bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s. This is why sometimes your dress size will match your pant size, and other times it will differ. 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.
Bridal sizes differ from designer to designer, and sizes also vary by country. Each designer has its own unique size chart, and the measurements for each size can vary between designers and styles. This can make it difficult to know what size to purchase. It is important to carefully compare your own measurements to the size chart provided by the designer. It is also important to note that even if you have your measurements done and follow the designer's size chart, in most cases, dresses may still require alterations to achieve a perfect fit.
Bridal sizing runs about two to three sizes larger than regular clothing sizes. For example, if you wear a size 4-6 in jeans, you are likely a bridal size 8-10. If you wear a size 14-16, you are probably a bridal size 18-20. Bridal samples usually range from a size 6 to 10, but sizes can go up to 32 or even 34 in UK sizes.
When purchasing a wedding dress, it is important to take accurate measurements of your bust, waist, and hips. Designers do not accommodate a "split size", meaning that if your bust is a size 4 but your hips are a size 8, you will be ordered a size 8 and the dress will be altered to fit your exact specifications. Most bridal samples have a B cup size, and plus-size samples have a C or D cup. However, some designers can customise the sizing and open the cup size to match your proportions.
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How to measure yourself for a wedding dress
It's important to note that wedding dress sizes can vary from designer to designer and often don't follow the typical measurements of ready-to-wear sizes. Bridal sizing is usually two to three sizes larger than regular clothing sizes.
To ensure the perfect fit for your wedding dress, you can take your measurements at home or at a bridal salon and then compare them to the designer's size chart. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to measure yourself for a wedding dress:
Bust
Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust. Ensure the tape is levelled in a straight line and not too tight—it should be comfortable enough that you can fit a finger between the tape and your body.
Waist
Bend to one side to find the natural waist, which is the crease or smallest part of your torso. Measure around the narrowest part of your waist, keeping the tape parallel to the floor. Again, make sure it's not too tight—you should be able to fit a finger between the tape and your waist.
Hips and Bottom
Stand with your feet together and pass the measuring tape around the widest part of your hips and the fullest part of your bottom. Don't make the tape too tight; you should be able to fit a finger between the tape and your body for comfort when sitting.
Hollow to Hem
This is the length from the centre of your collarbone to the bottom of the dress. It's important to wear your bridal shoes or shoes of the same height to get the proper measurements.
Remember, it's best to wear only the underwear you plan to wear on your wedding day when taking these measurements, as even your bra or nylon tights can add volume. If possible, have someone help you with the measurements so you can relax your body.
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Frequently asked questions
Wedding dress sizes vary between designers and styles, so a size 38 in one designer's collection may not be the same in another's. Wedding dress sizes also tend to run smaller than regular clothing sizes, so a size 38 in a wedding dress could be a larger size in street clothing. It is important to carefully compare your measurements to the unique size chart provided by the designer.
The most accurate way to determine your wedding dress size is by taking your measurements and comparing them to the designer's wedding dress size chart. You can take your measurements at home or at a bridal salon. Bridal salons generally only carry a few sample sizes for try-on appointments, so it is a good idea to call in advance to see what sizes they carry.
Yes, wedding dress sizes can vary by country and silhouette. Wedding dress sizes in the UK typically correspond to traditional numeric dress sizes (0-28), but can also be found in US or European sizes (e.g. "Spanish size 40").
Bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s, which differs from modern-day sizing. Bridal designers and dressmakers are generally accustomed to pattern-making from the past, which makes it relatively difficult and time-consuming to transfer over to contemporary sizing.
