Getting married is an exciting and memorable time, but it can also be stressful, especially when it comes to finding the perfect wedding dress. One of the most critical aspects of finding the right dress is getting accurate measurements. Whether you are going to a bridal boutique or shopping online, knowing your correct measurements is crucial to ensure that the dress fits you like a glove on your big day.
Measuring yourself for a wedding dress can be daunting, especially if you have never done it before. However, with the right tools, tips, and tricks, you can measure yourself like a pro and avoid costly alterations or fitting issues. In this article, we will provide you with the ultimate guide to measuring yourself for a wedding dress.
From understanding why accurate measurements matter and step-by-step guidance to tips and tricks for measuring yourself at home, we have got you covered. We will also share with you the most common mistakes to avoid, what to do if your measurements don’t match the size chart, and expert advice on finding the perfect wedding dress for your body type.
If you are ready to find your dream wedding dress, keep reading to discover everything you need to know about measuring yourself like a pro!
wedding dress measurements accurate measurements
Why Accurate Measurements Matter When Choosing a Wedding Dress
Choosing a wedding dress can be one of the most exciting and emotional experiences of a bride’s life. However, it can also be overwhelming, especially when it comes to finding the perfect fit. That’s why accurate measurements are crucial when choosing a wedding dress. Not only do they ensure that the dress fits properly, but they also determine the alterations that may be needed to make it fit perfectly.
Here are three reasons why accurate measurements matter when choosing a wedding dress:
Every Designer is Different
Designers have different sizing charts, which means a size 8 in one designer’s dress may not be the same as a size 8 in another designer’s dress. That’s why it’s important to take accurate measurements and compare them to each designer’s sizing chart before making a decision.
Alterations Can Only Do So Much
While alterations can be a lifesaver when it comes to making a dress fit perfectly, they can only do so much. If the dress is too small or too big, it may not be possible to alter it enough to make it fit properly. That’s why it’s important to get accurate measurements from the start.
Avoid Disappointment on Your Wedding Day
Getting your wedding dress only to find out that it doesn’t fit properly can be a bride’s worst nightmare. By taking accurate measurements, you can ensure that the dress fits perfectly on your special day, so you can feel confident and beautiful.
- Tip: Don’t take your own measurements. Have a professional take your measurements to ensure accuracy.
- Tip: Don’t forget to wear the undergarments and shoes that you plan to wear on your wedding day when getting measured.
Overall, taking accurate measurements is essential when choosing a wedding dress. By doing so, you can avoid disappointment, save time and money on alterations, and feel confident and beautiful on your special day.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measure Yourself for a Wedding Dress
Measuring yourself for a wedding dress can be a daunting task, but it’s essential to get the perfect fit on your big day. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to measure yourself accurately and confidently.
Before you start measuring, ensure that you have a soft measuring tape, wear comfortable undergarments, and stand in front of a mirror.
Step 1: Bust
Take the measuring tape and wrap it around the fullest part of your bust, ensuring it’s straight across your back. Keep the tape snug but not too tight, and exhale as you take the measurement. Repeat the process to ensure accuracy.
Step 2: Waist
Locate your natural waistline, which is the narrowest part of your waist, and wrap the measuring tape around it. Make sure it’s level with the ground and not too tight. Take the measurement while exhaling, then repeat to double-check.
Step 3: Hips
Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your hips, ensuring it’s straight across your buttocks. Keep the tape snug but not too tight, and take the measurement while standing up straight. Repeat to ensure accuracy.
- Tip: If you have trouble finding your natural waistline, bend to one side, and measure where your body creases.
- Tip: If you’re measuring alone, use a full-length mirror to ensure the measuring tape is level all around.
Conclusion
By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to measure yourself accurately and get the perfect fit on your big day. Remember to take your measurements at least twice to ensure accuracy, and always refer to the size chart provided by the bridal store. Now that you know how to measure yourself for a wedding dress like a pro, it’s time to start shopping for your dream gown!
Tips and Tricks for Measuring Yourself at Home
Measuring yourself for a wedding dress can seem intimidating, but with these tips and tricks, you can easily do it yourself at home. First, make sure to have a flexible measuring tape, and wear form-fitting clothing or undergarments. It’s also important to measure yourself in front of a full-length mirror to ensure accuracy.
Next, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Bust Measurement
Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust, ensuring it is straight across your back and not too tight or too loose. Repeat this measurement a few times to ensure accuracy.
Step 2: Waist Measurement
Wrap the measuring tape around the narrowest part of your waist, typically around your belly button. Again, ensure the tape is straight and not too tight or too loose.
Step 3: Hip Measurement
Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your hips, typically around your bottom. Make sure the tape is straight and not too tight or too loose.
By following these steps and tips, you can easily measure yourself for a wedding dress at home. Remember to measure multiple times to ensure accuracy and to always double-check your measurements before ordering a dress.
What to Do If Your Measurements Don’t Match the Size Chart
It can be frustrating when your measurements don’t align with the size chart. But don’t worry, there are a few things you can do to still find the perfect dress.
If you find that your measurements fall between two sizes, always go with the larger size. It is much easier to take a dress in than it is to let it out. And, keep in mind that most dresses can be altered to fit your body perfectly.
Alterations
- If your dress is too long, take it to a seamstress to have it hemmed.
- If the dress is too big in the bust, a seamstress can take it in and add cups to give you more support.
- If the dress is too tight in certain areas, a seamstress can let out the seams to make it fit more comfortably.
Exchange or Return
If you ordered a dress online and it doesn’t fit, check the return policy. Some stores will allow you to exchange the dress for a different size or offer a refund. Just make sure to read the fine print before making a purchase.
It’s also a good idea to double-check the sizing chart before buying a dress online. Every brand has different sizing guidelines, so it’s important to measure yourself and compare your measurements to the size chart provided.
Custom-Made Dresses
If you’re still struggling to find a dress that fits, consider getting a custom-made dress. This will ensure that the dress fits your body perfectly and eliminates the need for any alterations. However, keep in mind that custom-made dresses can be more expensive and take longer to make.
Remember, finding the perfect dress takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if your measurements don’t match the size chart. With alterations or exchange options, you can still find the dress of your dreams.
The Most Common Mistakes to Avoid When Measuring Yourself for a Wedding Dress
Measuring yourself for a wedding dress is a crucial step in ensuring that your dress fits you perfectly on your special day. Unfortunately, many brides-to-be make mistakes when taking their measurements, which can lead to ill-fitting dresses and unnecessary stress. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid when measuring yourself for a wedding dress:
The first mistake is not taking accurate measurements. It’s essential to use a measuring tape and to follow the instructions carefully. Make sure to stand up straight, wear the undergarments you plan to wear with your dress, and have someone else assist you if possible. Don’t pull the measuring tape too tight or too loose and measure the fullest part of your bust, the narrowest part of your waist, and the widest part of your hips.
Not Allowing for Alterations
- Alterations are essential when it comes to getting the perfect fit for your wedding dress. Make sure to leave enough time and budget for any necessary alterations.
- Remember that it’s easier to take a dress in than to let it out, so it’s better to order a slightly larger size and have it altered down to fit you perfectly.
Ignoring the Size Chart
Many brides-to-be make the mistake of ordering a dress based on their regular dress size, but wedding dress sizes can be different from regular clothing sizes. Make sure to consult the size chart provided by the designer or retailer and order the size that corresponds to your measurements.
Not Considering the Style of Dress
- The style of the dress can affect the fit, so make sure to choose a dress that flatters your body shape.
- If you plan to wear a strapless or backless dress, make sure to measure your bust and waist with the bra or undergarments you plan to wear with the dress.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your wedding dress fits you perfectly and that you feel confident and beautiful on your special day.
What You Need to Know About Alterations and Tailoring
When it comes to wedding dress shopping, finding the perfect dress can be a dream come true. However, it’s important to keep in mind that alterations and tailoring will likely be necessary to ensure the dress fits you like a glove. Here’s what you need to know:
First, be sure to budget for alterations when setting your wedding dress budget. The cost of alterations can vary depending on the extent of the work needed, but they’re almost always necessary. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of tailoring when considering the overall cost of your dress.
Choosing a Tailor
- Look for a tailor with experience in wedding dress alterations. Wedding dresses are often made with delicate fabrics and intricate details, so you want to make sure you choose a professional who is familiar with working with these types of materials.
- Ask for recommendations from bridal shops or friends who have had alterations done on their wedding dresses.
- Be sure to book your alteration appointment well in advance, especially if you’re getting married during peak wedding season.
What Can Be Altered?
Most aspects of a wedding dress can be altered, including:
- Length: Your dress can be shortened or lengthened to fit your height and the shoes you’ll be wearing.
- Fit: The dress can be taken in or let out to fit your specific measurements.
- Neckline: The neckline can be altered to be more or less revealing.
- Sleeves: Sleeves can be added or removed.
- Details: Details like buttons, beading, or lace can be added or removed to personalize your dress.
When to Schedule Alterations
Be sure to schedule your alterations appointment well in advance of your wedding day. Most brides have their first fitting 2-3 months before the wedding and have 2-3 fittings in total. This allows enough time to make any necessary adjustments and ensure your dress is perfect for your big day.
Expert Advice on Finding the Perfect Wedding Dress for Your Body Type
Choosing the right wedding dress is one of the most important decisions a bride will make. To ensure you look and feel your best on your special day, it’s important to find a dress that flatters your body type. Here are some expert tips to help you find the perfect dress for your figure:
Know Your Body Shape: Every bride has a unique body shape, and understanding yours is the first step in finding a dress that flatters your figure. The most common body shapes include pear, apple, hourglass, rectangle, and inverted triangle. Once you’ve identified your body shape, you can start searching for dresses that highlight your best features and minimize any areas you may be self-conscious about.
Choosing the Right Silhouette
- A-Line: This classic silhouette is ideal for brides with a pear-shaped figure, as it highlights the waist and skims over the hips and thighs.
- Ballgown: Perfect for brides with an hourglass figure, the ballgown silhouette accentuates the waist and provides a dramatic, full skirt.
- Sheath: This simple, elegant silhouette is best suited for brides with a rectangle or inverted triangle body shape, as it creates a long, lean look.
Choosing the Right Neckline
V-Neck: This neckline is perfect for brides with a larger bust, as it elongates the neck and draws attention to the face.
Sweetheart: Ideal for brides with a smaller bust, the sweetheart neckline creates the illusion of curves and enhances the décolletage.
Choosing the Right Fabric
- Lace: Perfect for a romantic, vintage-inspired look, lace is a versatile fabric that can be used in a variety of silhouettes and styles.
- Satin: For a classic, elegant look, choose a dress in a rich, luxurious satin fabric.
- Tulle: Ideal for creating a whimsical, fairy-tale look, tulle is a lightweight, airy fabric that adds volume and texture to any dress.
Remember, the most important thing is to find a dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Don’t be afraid to try on a variety of styles and silhouettes until you find the perfect one for your body type. And, if necessary, alterations can always be made to ensure a perfect fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I measure myself for a wedding dress?
Before measuring yourself, make sure you are wearing the undergarments and shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day. Use a soft tape measure and measure your bust, waist, and hips. For the bust, measure at the fullest part of your chest. For the waist, measure at the smallest part of your waistline. And for the hips, measure at the fullest part of your hips. Don’t pull the tape measure too tight or too loose, and stand up straight while taking the measurements.
Do I need to measure anything else besides my bust, waist, and hips?
Yes, you should also measure your length from the top of your shoulder to the floor, especially if you plan to wear high heels. And don’t forget to measure the length of your arms if you plan to wear a dress with sleeves.
What if my measurements fall between two sizes?
If your measurements fall between two sizes, it’s always better to go with the larger size. It’s much easier to take a dress in than to let it out, and you can always have the dress altered to fit your body perfectly.
Can I measure myself at home or should I go to a tailor?
It’s definitely possible to measure yourself at home, but if you’re unsure about your measurements or want to be absolutely certain, it’s always a good idea to go to a professional tailor. They can take accurate measurements and offer advice on which size and style of dress would be most flattering for your body type.
When is the best time to measure myself for a wedding dress?
The best time to measure yourself for a wedding dress is in the morning, when your body is at its most rested and your measurements are the most accurate. Avoid measuring yourself right after a meal or when you’re feeling bloated, as this can affect your measurements.
Can I alter a wedding dress that is too small?
It’s possible to alter a dress that is too small, but it’s important to keep in mind that certain alterations, such as adding fabric, may not be possible depending on the design of the dress. It’s always better to choose a dress that is slightly too big rather than too small, as it’s much easier to take a dress in than to let it out.