Deborah Chan
Wedding dress sizes are not standardised and vary depending on the designer, country, and silhouette. Bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s, which tends to run smaller than US street sizing. As a result, a bride who wears a size 12 in regular clothing would typically wear a bridal size 18. Sample sizes in bridal salons usually range from size 6 to 10, but plus-size samples are also available. When ordering a wedding dress, it is important to take accurate measurements and refer to the designer's size chart to ensure the best fit. Some designers also offer custom sizing and lengths to match an individual's proportions.
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What You'll Learn
Bridal sizing is different from regular sizing
Secondly, bridal designers and dressmakers still use pattern-making techniques from the past, which makes it challenging to transition to modern-day sizing. This means that bridal gowns often run 1-2 sizes smaller than regular clothing sizes, and this varies across designers. For example, a bride who is a size 4-6 in jeans may be a bridal size 8-10, and a size 14-16 may translate to a bridal size 18-20.
Additionally, bridal sizing is not standardised across the industry. Each designer has their own size chart, and there is no universal size chart for bridal gowns. This means that a bride may fit a size 10 in one designer, an 8 in another, and a 14 in yet another. This inconsistency can make shopping for a wedding dress a confusing and unique experience compared to everyday clothing.
Lastly, bridal sizing also takes into account the proportions of the bride's body. When ordering a wedding dress, the largest measurement is typically used as a reference. For example, if a bride's bust is the largest measurement, the dress size will be based on that, and the rest of the dress can be altered accordingly. Some designers also customise the cup size to match the bride's proportions. This attention to detail and focus on specific measurements contribute to the differences between bridal and regular sizing.
In conclusion, bridal sizing differs from regular sizing due to its roots in traditional European sizing, the challenges of transitioning to modern-day sizing, the lack of standardisation across designers, and the focus on specific body measurements. These factors combine to create a unique sizing system for bridal gowns, which can initially surprise brides-to-be but ultimately ensures a more precise and personalised fit for one of the most important outfits of their lives.
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Sample sizes
Bridal sample sizes generally range from a size 6 to 10, which typically translates to a street size 2 to 6. However, it's important to note that bridal sizing is not the same as typical streetwear sizing. Bridal gowns tend to run 1-3 sizes smaller than regular sizes. This means that a bride who usually wears a size 12 in street clothing would likely be a bridal size 18. Bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s, which is why there is often a discrepancy between bridal and streetwear sizes.
When shopping for a wedding dress, it's recommended to take measurements and compare them to the designer's size chart. Bridal salons usually carry a limited range of sample sizes for try-on appointments, so calling ahead to inquire about available sizes is advisable. Most bridal samples have a B cup size, while plus-size samples may offer C or D cups. Customization options are also available from some designers to ensure the perfect fit.
The largest measurement, typically the bust, waist, or hip, determines the dress size. For example, if the bust is the largest measurement, the dress size should accommodate that, and the rest of the dress can be altered accordingly. Proper sizing is crucial when ordering a wedding dress, and alterations are often needed to ensure a perfect fit.
Some brides may opt for custom-made gowns, which require staying close to the same size until the wedding day. Custom lengths are also offered by some designers for an additional fee. It is recommended to maintain consistent communication with the bridal salon or designer to navigate any sizing concerns or adjustments effectively.
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Taking measurements
Bridal sizing is different from typical streetwear sizing. Bridal sizes tend to be smaller than regular clothing sizes, so a person who wears a size 12 in regular clothing would be a bridal size 18. This is because bridal sizing is based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s, when clothing was more tailored and body proportions were different.
When it comes to taking measurements for a wedding dress, it's important to consider the style of the dress. For an entirely fitted dress, you need to take measurements for the bust, waist, and hips. If the dress is A-line or a ball gown, the most important measurements are the bust and waist.
- Bust: Wear the bra you plan to wear on your wedding day. Start in the middle of your chest, at the level of your nipples, and pass the measuring tape around your back to the same spot on the flat of your back. The tape should be straight and snug but not too tight—you should be able to fit a finger between the tape and your body.
- Waist: Bend to one side to find the crease or natural waist, which is the smallest part of your torso. Pass the measuring tape around your waist, keeping it parallel to the floor. Again, it should be snug but not too tight, with room for a finger between the tape and your waist.
- Hips: Stand with your feet together and measure around the widest part of your hips and the fullest part of your bottom. The tape should be snug but not too tight—you should be able to fit a finger between the tape and your body.
It is recommended that you wear only the underwear you plan to wear on your wedding day when taking these measurements, as even a bra or nylon tights can add volume. It is also helpful to have someone assist you with taking the measurements so you can relax your body.
After taking these measurements, you can compare them to the designer's wedding dress size chart. It is likely that these measurements will fall into multiple sizes, so the largest measurement is usually what the dress size will be based on. For example, if your bust is a size 10, waist is a size 12, and hips are a size 14, you would order a size 14.
Additionally, if you are ordering a custom dress, you will need to know how to measure your "hollow to hem." This is done by measuring from the center of your collarbone (the hollow) to the bottom (hem) of the dress. It is important to wear your bridal shoes or shoes of the same height for this measurement to ensure the proper length.
Keep in mind that different designers have different size charts, so knowing your measurements is crucial. It is also important to take your measurements close to your wedding date, as bodies can change over time.
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Designers' size charts
Wedding dress sizes differ from designer to designer, and bridal sizing is often based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s. This means that bridal dresses often run two to three sizes larger than regular street clothing. For example, if you wear a size 12 in regular clothing, your bridal size will likely be a 16-18, depending on the designer.
Bridal salons generally only carry a few sample sizes for try-on appointments, typically ranging from a bridal size 6 to 10. When trying on dresses, the stylist will measure your bust, waist, and hips, and determine the size based on your largest measurement. This is because it is easier for the seamstress to remove fabric than to add it.
Some designers are completely custom and do not have a size chart, so your dress will be made based on your measurements after trying on a sample size in-store or at a bridal salon. If a designer does have a size chart, it is important to refer to this before purchasing a wedding dress from them. You can take your measurements at home or at a bridal salon and then compare them to the designer's size chart to determine the best fit.
It is worth noting that even with your correct size, most wedding dresses will require alterations to fit seamlessly. Therefore, it is recommended to go for your first fitting no later than three months before the wedding, allowing time for two to three fittings to ensure the perfect fit.
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Customisation
Bridal sizing is not standardised and differs from regular street sizing. Wedding dress sizes are based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s, which tends to run smaller than US street sizes. This means that a bride who wears a size 12 in regular clothing would be a bridal size 18. Sample sizes in bridal salons usually range from a bridal size 6 to 10, but some salons offer a wider range of sample sizes.
When ordering a wedding dress, it is important to take accurate measurements and refer to the designer's size chart. If you are ordering a custom dress, it is crucial to stay close to the same size until your wedding day. Some weight change is inevitable, but if you are planning to lose weight, consider ordering your dress closer to the wedding date and get measured just before ordering.
Some designers also offer custom lengths for a fee. If you plan to wear heels with your gown, you must commit to a specific heel height and get measured with those shoes. If you decide to change your shoe choice, you may need to pay for additional alterations.
It is important to remember that sizing is just a number, and the most important thing is to find a dress that makes you feel beautiful and confident. With customisation options and alterations, you can ensure that your dress fits you perfectly and flatters your unique body shape.
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Frequently asked questions
The most accurate way to determine your wedding dress size is by taking your measurements and then comparing them to the designer's wedding dress size chart. Bridal sizing is not the same as typical streetwear sizing, so don't be surprised if your wedding dress size is larger than your regular dress size.
There is no direct equivalent of XL in wedding dress sizes. Wedding dress sizes vary by designer and country, and they are often based on traditional European sizing from the 1940s, which tends to run smaller than US street sizes.
It is rare for a bride to fit perfectly into one size. Your dress will be ordered to your largest measurement and can then be altered to fit your exact specifications.
