Ensure the Proper Fit

Buying bridal dresses, evening dresses, party dresses and mother of the bride gowns online can be exhilarating - you get the dress of your dreams at a fraction of the salon price. But nothing can turn triumph into trial faster than purchasing a wedding gown or evening dress that doesn't fit. So before you buy, here's how to ensure the perfect dress will also be a perfect fit.

Manufacturer's Standard Sizing

When it comes to bridal and formal, there is no such thing as "standard sizing;" every manufacturer designs to a slightly different standard. A Watters & Watters size 10 is larger in the bust than a Lazaro size 10, though they are nearly comparable in the hips. An Avanti mothers dress in size 10 is cut larger than a size 10 Jovani Prom dress. Also, be mindful that bridal and formal typically runs smaller than casual or career wear - sometimes as much as several inches.

Read the size chart carefully. Then know your measurements.

Size Charts for Couture Bridal

Size Charts for Maids, Moms, Party & Prom

How to Measure

Using a soft cloth measuring tape available at any fabric store:

1. Measure Bust: Measure around your bustline at the widest part of the back, straight across the bust where it sticks out the most, not under the bust line. If possible, wear the kind of bra you intend to wear with the dress, as this can make a big difference in the fit. Remember: your bra size is not your bust size - an A-cup is much different from a C-cup. Also, don't pull the tape measure taut. You want at least a finger's width room between the tape and your body.

2. Measure Waist: Measure at your natural waistline - where a belt naturally rests. While it's tempting to hold in your stomach for a leaner look, don't. It results in an uncomfortably skin-tight measurement. A girl's got to breathe, you know.

3. Measure Hips: Measure around your body at the largest part of the hip - where the tips of your fingers reach when you rest your hands on your hips and put your thumbs at your natural waist. (It's usually six or seven inches below your natural waist.)

If you can't figure out where your fingers go, don't sweat it. Hip measurement is only a factor when you are wearing a gown with a sheath or straight skirt or when the hip is several sizes larger than the other measurements.

Compared to What

When you know your current body measurements, fit your largest part.

Compare bust, waist and hip size to the manufacturer's standard size chart. If the largest part of your body is within the measurement of the size chart, the dress is a fit.

For example, your bust measures 36.5" and the manufacturer's standard bust size is 37" Perfecto! You're good to go. If your waist measurements are borderline - a fraction more than 27" compared to the manufacturer's 27," choose the next size up.

It's really better to purchase a gown a little larger than you need and tailor it to fit where it's too big. Most couture fabrics don't "give."

Approximate Measurements

Alternatively, you can always use the tape measure to compare approximate measurements to a dress you already own.

Measure the bust at the widest point, from seam to seam, just below the arm hole. Waist at natural waist. Hips approximately six inches below the waist. Try not to stretch the fabric.

And remember, "guide" is the operative word in this method.

It is especially helpful when you're a tall woman; bridal and formal manufacturers typically design for women who are 5' 9" or so with heels.

Just drop the tape from natural waist to the hem of a gown that's the right length. Voila! You've avoided another buying disappointment.

What about the rest of us?

Tailoring the Fit

Bridal and formal wear gowns are designed for easy alteration. They often have princess seams and darts in all the right places, so a seamstress can easily fit the garment to your body type. And unless you're a tall, skinny model type, you'll want the gown to be hemmed.

Taking in a dress is easy peasy. A wedding gown typically provides a "seam allowance;" it can often be let out an inch, or even a full size. Letting a dress out; not so much.

We do not recommend buying colored satin, taffeta or chiffon dresses with the idea to let out. The stitch marks remain in the fabric, leaving a line of needle holes where you want a smooth look.

Remember: sizing a dress is not an exact science even for the most established manufacturer. Also, round, angular, plump or thin, body shapes vary widely. Alterations by a skillful seamstress will almost always be desirable.

The best advice? If you are familiar with the brand, order the same size as usual. Otherwise, a little helpful information from Scarletts Closet and a simple tape measure, ensures a perfect fit.

PS: Feel free to contact us if you need assistance with size and fit!

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Tips to Ensure the Proper Fit