It is very important to take your measurements to determine the right fit when choosing your gown size. We suggest having a professional seamstress/tailor take your measurements, but if this is not possible, have someone besides yourself take the measurements.

What You Need

A cloth tape measure. If you do not have a cloth tape measure, you can use string to measure around the body and a ruler to measure the string.

Take the measurements undressed or in lightweight clothes. Even better, use the undergarments that you will be wearing with your gown. Pull your tape measure snug, but not too tight. Stand up straight and tall.

Where You Measure

Bust
Wrap the tape measure around the back, under the armpits and bring forward to the fullest part of the bust.

Waist
Place your hands at your natural waistline. The tape should be placed here, and the measurement taken. Don’t hold your tummy in.

Hip
Measurement is at the fullest part of the hip (usually about 7-9 inches below the waist).

Hollow-to-Hem
This measurement is taken from the depression at the base of the neck just above the collarbone to the hem.

What You Do

1. The most critical measurements are the Bust and the Waist. Our gowns have very full skirts, so the hip measurement is not as significant.

2. Compare your measurements to those of the dress style that you are interested in. Please note that designers cut differently from normal street clothes, so you may measure into a size you normally do not wear.

3. When choosing a dress size, be sure that all of the dress measurements are the same or higher than yours. For example, if your waist measurement is 33", make sure the dress size you choose has a waist of 33" or higher. It is easier for a tailor to take a dress in than to let it out.

4. Keep in mind that most formal wear requires some alterations for a perfect fit.