Let’s Talk Bridal Sizing
One of the biggest surprises brides experience when shopping for their wedding dress is the number on the size tag. If you've ever tried on a gown that's two or three sizes larger than what you normally wear, don't panic, this is completely normal!
Why Are Bridal Sizes So Different?
Bridal sizing hasn't kept up with modern retail sizing. Most wedding gown designers still use traditional sizing charts that run much smaller than the sizes you're used to seeing in everyday clothing. It's very common for a bride who wears a size 8 in regular clothing to order a bridal size 12, or even 14.
Remember, the number on the tag is just a number. It doesn't define your body or your beauty.
Your Measurements
The three most important measurements when shopping for a bridal gown are:
Bust
Waist
Hips
To make the process simple, we ask for your regular dress size rather than these measurements when you book your appointment with us.
Please note that bridal gowns are selected based on each designer's size chart, not your everyday clothing size.
Why We Usually Size Up
Gowns will be pulled for you based on your largest measurement, which is most often the hips. For example, if your bust measures a size 10, your waist a size 12, and your hips a size 14 on a designer's chart, we'll typically recommend going with the size 14 and taking in the top. Keep in mind this would be the same at a to order bridal boutique.
It's always easier for a skilled bridal seamstress to tailor a gown smaller. Letting a gown out is often not an option.
Every Designer Is Different
One of the most confusing parts of bridal shopping is that every designer has their own unique size chart. You may be a size 12 in one designer and a size 16 in another. This is completely normal and doesn't mean your body has changed, it simply reflects how each designer creates their sizing.
Trust the Process
Our goal is to find the gown that fits your body beautifully and gives you the best foundation for alterations. We know bridal sizing can feel surprising at first, but we've guided countless brides through the process.
When you step into your dream dress on your wedding day, no one will know the number. All that matters is that you’re in the gown that makes you feel confident, beautiful, and completely yourself.