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How To measure Dress Size Accurately

9/4/2018

8 Comments

 
Your dress size measurements are taken to determine which size will provide the closest fit based on the designer’s bridal dress size chart. We always recommend having a professional take all of your measurements. For the most accurate measurements, don’t measure over your clothing. Your dress size measurements should be taken while wearing undergarments similar to the ones you will wear with your dress. The measuring tape shouldn’t be pulled too tight or have too much slack, and should always be parallel to the floor.
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​Bust size: Measure around your chest, at the fullest point of the bust (not under the bust).
 
Waist size: While standing up straight, bend at the waist to one side. The crease that forms is where your natural waist is located; measure there.
 
Hip size: Standing with your feet together, measure around the fullest part of the hips. 
 
Hollow-to-Hem Measurement (Length)
 
Your hollow-to-hem measurement is determined by measuring from the center of your collarbone (hollow) to the bottom (hem) of your dress. We highly recommend that you have a formal wear professional perform this measurement.
 
It’s very important that you wear shoes with a similar heel height to those you will be wearing with your gown, and you will also need to take into consideration the fullness of your gown’s skirt. For example, if your gown is an A-line with a full skirt, you will need to move the measuring tape away from the body to ensure that your gown will be the correct length.
 
Most dresses come in a standard hollow-to-hem measurement, based on the size of the dress, which varies from designer to designer.

How to measure dress size and read a size chartCompare your bust, waist, and hip measurements to the designer’s size chart. It’s very important that you order the largest size that corresponds to your measurements. For example, if your measurements are as follows:
 
Your bust fits a size 12
Your waist fits a size 10
Your hips fits a size 8
 
We would advise that you order a size 12, and get the dress altered down to custom fit your body. Ordering the size that fits your largest measurement will ensure that your dress has the most flattering fit possible. 

Wedding apparel is typically sized differently than retail clothing, so it’s not uncommon to find yourself requiring wedding apparel one or more sizes larger than your normal dress size. ​

8 Comments
Mindy Jollie link
7/30/2019 06:10:03 pm

Thank you for going over the different dress measurements and where they should actually hit. I have a lot of clothing that doesn't hit me quite right because of my shape. I'll probably just have to take them to a tailor so that they do fit correctly.

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Sizees link
7/22/2020 03:56:57 pm

And that's what I was just looking for. A very good tutorial. Thank you for the information, it came in handy before shopping!

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Pearl link
11/21/2020 02:33:37 am

I love this information you shared with us. I am waiting for your next post. Keep it up. What a great idea! thanks. :)

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Mia Evans link
11/16/2022 03:11:22 am

Thanks for pointing out that dresses would usually be in a standard hollow-to-hem measurement which is different for every designer. That is the reason why I need alterations for the one I ordered online. I ordered the size I usually get for myself, but it seems that their measurements are a little bit bigger.

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Jessie Holloway link
11/22/2022 08:48:42 pm

Thanks so much for the help on how to measure your body for clothes. I've been wanting to find new brands to shop at but I've been worried about trying to find my sizes in things. I'll have to measure so when I find a place to shop at I know my sizes.

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Eli Richardson link
12/8/2022 03:39:34 pm

It's great that you explained how to measure yourself to help you choose the right-sized dress. The other day, my aunt told us she wants to buy clothes online, but she's worried that they won't fit her property, so I believe your guide could be very helpful for her. Thank you for the advice on measuring your dress size and comparing it to the piece you want before buying.

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satin dress mermaid style link
4/17/2023 10:52:25 pm

Debbie Cordeiro's blog post "How to Measure Dress Size Accurately" provides detailed directions and helpful hints for properly determining one's dress size, whether one is purchasing online or creating their own clothes. The author gives in-depth instructions on how to take accurate measurements of the bust, waist, hips, and length of a person. With its clear instructions and accompanying images, this blog post is an excellent resource for anyone who needs to determine their exact dress size.

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Jenn
6/1/2023 01:14:43 am

On one site I shop at regularly in the size description they always list: Bust, Waist, Sleeve Length, Length and "Hem."

What does that mean? Is it the sane thing as "Hem to Hollow?" Its always confused me! Thank you!

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    Debbie Cordeiro

    A successful fashion designer, business woman, dedicated wife and mother to a beautiful daughter.

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Woodbridge, Ontario L4L 3Y9

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