How To Measure

Are you wondering how to measure for a wedding gown? When purchasing your wedding gown, never go by the gown’s size tag, since bridal gowns usually run 1-2 sizes smaller than usual daywear sizes, depending on the designer and the style of the gown. We always suggest measuring yourself and comparing your measurements to the measurements listed for each gown. Measure yourself with just your undergarments on, looking straight ahead, standing up straight and with your arms down at your sides. Make sure to measure through the fullest parts of your bust, waist and hips. (Please keep in mind to “not” go by your bra size for your bust measurement, since it is a totally different measurement.)  It’s always best to have a friend help for the most accurate measurements.

When comparing your height to the length of each gown, please compare your hollow-to-hem measurement to the hollow-to-hem measurement of each gown. This measurement is “not” your actual height. The hollow-to-hem measurement is the measurement from the base of your neck (where your collar bones meet in the middle and it divets in) to the hem of where you would like to hem of the gown to end. When measuring, always make sure to have a friend help, since you will need to stand up straight and look straight ahead without looking down when taking this measurement. It is always a good idea to have the same or similar shoe height on that you plan to wear on the day of the wedding. Although, please know that most brides of average height do not need to worry about the length of the gown being too short. Most brides will need their gown hemmed to the perfect length by their bridal seamstress, which is absolutely normal.

Most bridal gowns can be altered at least 1-2 sizes smaller, however, couture bridal gowns usually can not be let out (made larger), since the interior seams are notched for the best couture fit.  We suggest consulting a local professional, experienced bridal seamstress so he/she can give you their opinion on whether they personally would be able to do the alterations. Our past brides have had positive success with taking the listed pictures to their local bridal seamstress to see if it is possible. You may also use our wonderful, no risk return policy, in order to take the gown directly to your bridal seamstress upon delivery of your gown to acquire his/her professional opinion.

If you have any further questions about how to measure, please do not hesitate to contact us at customerservice@yourdreamdress.com or by phone at 717-506-0343.  We will be more than happy to help.