Sizing Is Just a Number
Bridal sizing isn't like regular clothing. While you might be a size 8–10 in jeans, you may be a size 10–12 in a wedding dress; if you're a size 14–16, you're likely an 18–20. Don't worry about it — sizing is just a number!
There are two sizes to consider when buying a wedding dress:
- The size on the dress label.
- Your "street" size — the size you would purchase most often when shopping in regular stores.
Wedding dress label sizing varies greatly between design houses — many still cut to mid-century measurement blocks, which is why the label runs "small" against modern high-street sizing. There is even an international standard for how garment sizes should be designated — ISO 8559 — precisely because no two makers measure alike. See our sizing charts for typical bridal measurements.
You should buy a dress within your size range. It is much easier to take a dress in a size or two than to try and let it out — though most manufacturers leave 1–2 inches of material in the seams to allow for letting out. Be aware that if a made-to-order dress does not fit when you receive it, it generally cannot be returned for a refund; alterations are the normal, expected path to a perfect fit.
How to Measure Yourself
Bust
Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of the bust, under the arms and around the back. The tape should be snug but never pulled tight.
Waist
Measure the smallest part of your waist. Note that this is not the top of your trousers — it sits about halfway between your hips and your bust.
Hips
Measure at the fullest point around the bottom and thighs.
Length
Measure from the collarbone to the ground, adding extra for heel height.
Finding the Perfect Wedding Dress
It is good to have an idea of what you like before you start — it makes the search far less overwhelming. Off-the-rail and sample dresses mean buying the dress as seen on the day, which suits brides on a short timeline or with a set budget. And when you find the dress you love, don't wait too long to decide: a dream sample dress can be bought up by another bride.
Do Your Homework
Browsing collections online is the perfect way to source inspiration. You get a sense of what is available and what you are drawn to in terms of shape, detail and fabric — an open back, a sweetheart neckline, elaborate beading. Screenshot your favourite dresses and look for similarities among them; it really helps a stylist when a bride arrives with pictures, because the pattern in her favourites guides the whole search. Doing this makes choosing your dress much easier — and a dress in harmony with your personal style will make you that much more comfortable on the big day.
Shape
Try on a few silhouettes so you can choose the one that feels most like you and fits your personal style — perhaps the princess shape, or the sleek fit-and-flare. You won't know until you try them on. Note how each dress fits your body type and whether it accentuates your best features. If you have a narrow waist and you're not a fan of your hips, an A-line might be the best fit. There are no golden rules: you know you have the right dress when you feel confident and beautiful — the way you'll want to feel on your wedding day. Our silhouette guide walks through all five core shapes.
Colour Is Important
The colour of your dress matters as much as the silhouette: the right tone accentuates and complements your skin. Stark white can wash out fair complexions, so many brides look instead to warmer ivory tones — while deeper skin tones can carry brilliant white beautifully. Always judge colour in natural light.
Be Yourself
Your dress needs to represent you. Buying your dream dress is an emotional decision, so shop feeling like the best version of yourself — it gives a true picture of how you'll feel in each gown. If you favour clean lines and solids, look for a minimalist gown; if you love quirky retro styles, make a beeline for vintage-inspired designs. Confine the entourage to one or two trusted friends or family members with good taste. Remember: it is you who will wear the dress, so go with your gut feeling. You will know when you have the right one.
A final note — when you're ready to say yes, don't be afraid to do so. As long as it feels right and you feel like the best version of you, go for it. The long-anticipated search may feel suddenly over, but you have found your perfect dress — leaving you more time to sort out the countless other details of the big day.
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