While it may be tempting to order a larger size for safety, accuracy is essential to avoid unnecessary alterations down the line.

This guide will walk you through the key principles of wedding dress sizing—from focusing on your largest measurement to considering split sizing for a customized fit—ensuring that your gown complements you beautifully on your big day.

Focus on Accuracy

When selecting the right size for your wedding dress, accuracy is essential. Avoid defaulting to ordering a size up without specific cause—this outdated approach can lead to significant and costly alterations dow the line.

Follow Your Largest Measurement

Wedding dress sizing typically goes by your largest measurement to ensure the best fit.

For example, if your bust and waist measurements align with a size 12, but your hips measure a 14, you should order a size 14 and plan to have the top adjusted during alterations.

Exceptions to the Rule

Dress Style: If you choose a dress that’s fuller around the hips, such as an A-line or ball gown, your hip measurement may not be as crucial. In this case, consult your bridal shop. They might suggest ordering a size 12 instead, since the hips are inconsequential.

Silhouette and Fit: For example, if your bust is an 18, waist is a 16, and hips are a 14, you should order the dress in a size 18 to fit the bust and expect alterations to take in the waist and hips.

Considerations for Minor Adjustments

Dress shops sometimes make exceptions to the typical sizing rules based on:

Extra Fabric Allowance: If your measurements are close to a size but not exact, and the designer includes extra fabric (known as seam allowance), your shop may suggest ordering a smaller size. For instance, if your bust and waist measure a size 10 and your hips are just above a size 10, the shop may recommend a 10 with minor hip adjustments.

Consult a Tailor or Seamstress: If the shop isn’t certain, it can be helpful to consult a local bridal sewist or ask the shop to reach out to the designer directly for the most accurate guidance.

Steps for Sizing and Ordering Your Dress

Shopping in-store typically follows a simple process: You try on samples, take your measurements, choose your size, place the order, and pay a deposit.

Your dress is made, delivered, and ready for fittings. Keep in mind that sizing matters—don’t order a dress that’s too big, thinking it’ll be easier to alter.

Split Sizing

If your measurements are very different, you might inquire about split sizing or measurement. This is when the top of a garment is ordered in one size and the bottom in another, and then they are merged together.

If we go back to our example, the client might order a size 12 top with 14 bottom. There is almost always an extra cost associated with this, but that cost is usually worth it to save you from major alterations work later.

Wrapping Up: Ensuring the Best Fit for Your Big Day

Selecting the correct size for your wedding dress can make all the difference, not only for comfort but also for style and budget. By focusing on accurate measurements and consulting with professionals when needed, you can avoid the pitfalls of ordering too large or too small.

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Hi, I’m Melissa, the sassy sewing and wedding pro you didn’t know you needed in your life. 

I’m the owner of deMelis Atelier, a top ranked alterations studio located in Connecticut, and the founder of Stitched Collective, a community for sewing professionals. I’m a master seamstress and wedding dress educator as well as an industry leader and trainer… and a lover of spicy mango margaritas.

I use my fashion and sewing knowledge to help brides and wedding pros alike. 

Be sure to check out my latest endeavors and access some of my favorite products too!