Finding the perfect dress can be a delightful experience, but navigating the often-confusing world of dress sizes can quickly turn that excitement into frustration. Sizing varies significantly between brands and even within the same brand across different styles. Throw in the differences between US, UK, and European sizing, and you have a recipe for dressing room despair. Fear not! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of accurately determining your dress size, ensuring you find a dress that fits and flatters your figure.
Why Accurate Measurements Matter
Before diving into the steps, it’s crucial to understand why taking accurate measurements is so important. Relying solely on the size you think you are based on past purchases can be misleading. Our bodies change over time due to factors like weight fluctuations, muscle gain, and even aging. Therefore, regularly updating your measurements is essential for a good fit. Furthermore, dress sizes are not standardized. A size 8 in one brand could be a size 10 or even a 6 in another. Accurate measurements provide a reliable baseline, allowing you to compare your dimensions to the specific size charts provided by the brand you’re shopping from.
Essential Tools for Accurate Measurements
To get the most accurate measurements, gather these essential tools:
- A Flexible Measuring Tape: Cloth or vinyl measuring tapes are ideal for taking body measurements as they conform to your curves. Avoid using metal measuring tapes, as they are not flexible and will not provide accurate results.
- A Full-Length Mirror: A mirror is crucial for ensuring the measuring tape is positioned correctly and that you are standing with good posture.
- A Pen and Paper (or a Digital Note): You’ll need to record your measurements as you take them.
- A Well-Fitting, Non-Padded Bra (or the Bra You Plan to Wear with the Dress): Wearing a bra that provides your typical level of support is essential for accurate bust measurements.
- Snug-Fitting Clothing (Optional): Wearing thin, close-fitting clothing, like a camisole and leggings, can help you take more accurate measurements. Avoid bulky clothing, as it will add extra inches. However, taking measurements against bare skin is often preferred for the most precise results.
- A Friend (Optional, but Recommended): While you can take measurements yourself, having a friend assist you can significantly improve accuracy, especially for hard-to-reach areas like your back.
Step-by-Step Guide to Taking Accurate Body Measurements
Follow these detailed steps to measure yourself accurately for dress sizing:
1. Prepare for Measurement
- Choose the Right Time: Avoid taking measurements immediately after eating or drinking a lot, as this can temporarily alter your body size.
- Wear the Right Undergarments: As mentioned earlier, wear a well-fitting, non-padded bra (or the bra you plan to wear with the dress).
- Stand with Good Posture: Stand tall with your feet together and your shoulders relaxed. Look straight ahead in the mirror.
- Relax: Try to relax your muscles. Tension can affect your measurements.
2. Bust Measurement
The bust measurement is taken around the fullest part of your chest.
- Position the Measuring Tape: Place the end of the measuring tape at the fullest part of your bust. Bring the tape around your back, keeping it parallel to the floor.
- Ensure Proper Placement: Make sure the tape goes over your nipples and under your arms.
- Maintain a Level Tape: Check in the mirror to ensure the tape is level all the way around your body.
- Breathe Normally: Take a normal breath and relax. Avoid holding your breath, as this can artificially inflate your chest.
- Read the Measurement: Read the measurement at the point where the tape meets, making sure the tape is snug but not too tight. The tape should lie flat against your skin without digging in.
- Record the Measurement: Write down the measurement in inches or centimeters, depending on the size chart you plan to use.
3. Waist Measurement
The waist measurement is taken at the narrowest part of your torso, typically located above your belly button and below your ribcage.
- Locate Your Natural Waist: To find your natural waist, bend to one side. The crease that forms is your natural waistline.
- Position the Measuring Tape: Place the end of the measuring tape at your natural waistline. Bring the tape around your back, keeping it parallel to the floor.
- Maintain a Level Tape: Check in the mirror to ensure the tape is level all the way around your body.
- Relax Your Abdomen: Relax your abdominal muscles. Avoid sucking in your stomach, as this will result in an inaccurate measurement.
- Read the Measurement: Read the measurement at the point where the tape meets, making sure the tape is snug but not too tight. The tape should lie flat against your skin without digging in.
- Record the Measurement: Write down the measurement in inches or centimeters.
4. Hips Measurement
The hips measurement is taken around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks.
- Position the Measuring Tape: Place the end of the measuring tape at the fullest part of your hips. Bring the tape around your back, keeping it parallel to the floor.
- Ensure Proper Placement: Make sure the tape goes over the widest part of your buttocks.
- Maintain a Level Tape: Check in the mirror to ensure the tape is level all the way around your body.
- Stand with Feet Together: Stand with your feet together to ensure the tape is positioned correctly.
- Read the Measurement: Read the measurement at the point where the tape meets, making sure the tape is snug but not too tight. The tape should lie flat against your skin without digging in.
- Record the Measurement: Write down the measurement in inches or centimeters.
5. Shoulder Width Measurement (Optional, but Recommended for Fitted Dresses)
The shoulder width measurement is taken from the edge of one shoulder to the edge of the other.
- Locate Your Shoulder Points: Find the points where your shoulder meets your arm. These are typically located at the end of your collarbone.
- Position the Measuring Tape: Place the end of the measuring tape at one shoulder point and extend it across your back to the other shoulder point.
- Maintain a Straight Line: Keep the tape measure straight across your back. It should not dip or curve. Having a friend help with this measurement is highly recommended.
- Record the Measurement: Write down the measurement in inches or centimeters.
6. Length Measurement (Optional, but Important for Dress Length)
The length measurement determines how long the dress will be on your body. This is typically measured from the highest point of your shoulder (near your neck) down to the desired hemline.
- Determine Your Desired Hemline: Decide where you want the dress to end (e.g., knee-length, midi-length, floor-length).
- Position the Measuring Tape: Place the end of the measuring tape at the highest point of your shoulder, near your neck.
- Extend the Tape Down: Extend the tape down your body, keeping it straight, to your desired hemline.
- Record the Measurement: Write down the measurement in inches or centimeters.
7. Other Measurements (Optional, Depending on the Dress Style)
- Upper Arm Circumference: Measure around the fullest part of your upper arm. This is important for dresses with fitted sleeves.
- Underbust Measurement: Measure around your ribcage directly under your bust. This is helpful for determining bra band size and can be relevant for dresses with empire waists.
- Torso Length: Measure from the high point of your shoulder (where your bra strap sits) down to your crotch. This can be helpful for one-piece garments like jumpsuits and rompers, and sometimes for dresses with a very specific bodice design.
Understanding Size Charts
Once you have your measurements, the next step is to consult the size chart provided by the brand or retailer you are purchasing from. Remember that size charts vary significantly, so it’s essential to check the specific chart for each garment. Size charts usually include measurements for bust, waist, and hips, and sometimes shoulder width and length.
How to Use a Size Chart
- Locate the Size Chart: Size charts are typically found on the product page of the dress you are interested in. They may also be located in a general size guide section of the website.
- Compare Your Measurements: Compare your bust, waist, and hip measurements to the corresponding measurements on the size chart.
- Choose the Correct Size: Select the size that most closely matches your measurements. If you fall between sizes, it’s generally recommended to choose the larger size, especially for fitted dresses. It’s easier to have a dress taken in than to try to make one larger.
- Read the Fine Print: Some size charts include notes about fit, such as “runs small” or “true to size.” Pay attention to these notes, as they can provide valuable guidance.
Dealing with Inconsistencies
It’s not uncommon to find that your measurements fall into different sizes on the same size chart. For example, you might be a size 8 in the bust but a size 10 in the hips. In this case, consider the style of the dress and which area is most critical for fit.
- For Fitted Dresses: If the dress is fitted throughout the bodice and hips, choose the size that accommodates your largest measurement. You may need to have the dress altered to fit perfectly in the smaller areas.
- For Dresses with a Relaxed Fit: If the dress has a looser, more relaxed fit, you can often choose the size that corresponds to your bust measurement.
- Consider the Fabric: Stretchy fabrics are more forgiving than non-stretch fabrics. If the dress is made of a stretchy material, you may be able to choose the smaller size if you are between sizes.
Tips for Online Dress Shopping
Online dress shopping can be convenient, but it also presents unique challenges when it comes to sizing. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect fit online:
- Read Customer Reviews: Customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the fit of a dress. Pay attention to comments about sizing, fabric, and overall fit.
- Check the Return Policy: Before making a purchase, review the retailer’s return policy. Make sure you can easily return or exchange the dress if it doesn’t fit.
- Look for Detailed Product Descriptions: Detailed product descriptions should include information about the fabric, fit, and length of the dress. This information can help you determine if the dress is likely to fit you well.
- Use Virtual Fitting Tools: Some online retailers offer virtual fitting tools that allow you to enter your measurements and see how the dress will look on a virtual model. While these tools are not always perfectly accurate, they can provide a helpful visual representation.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions: If you have any questions about sizing or fit, don’t hesitate to contact the retailer’s customer service department. They may be able to provide additional guidance.
Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure you find the right dress size, avoid these common mistakes:
- Relying on Past Sizes: As mentioned earlier, your body can change over time. Don’t assume that you are the same size you were last year.
- Ignoring Size Charts: Size charts are essential for determining the correct size. Don’t skip this step.
- Sucking In Your Stomach: Relax your abdominal muscles when taking your waist measurement.
- Holding Your Breath: Breathe normally when taking your bust measurement.
- Measuring Over Bulky Clothing: Wear thin, close-fitting clothing or measure against bare skin.
- Not Seeking Assistance: If possible, have a friend help you take your measurements.
- Assuming All Brands Are the Same: Sizing varies significantly between brands. Always check the specific size chart for each garment.
Alterations: The Secret to a Perfect Fit
Even with accurate measurements and careful attention to size charts, you may still find that a dress doesn’t fit perfectly. In these cases, alterations can be your best friend. A skilled tailor can make adjustments to the dress to ensure it fits your body like a glove.
Common Alterations
- Taking In or Letting Out the Sides: This is a common alteration that can improve the fit of the dress through the bodice and hips.
- Shortening the Hemline: This alteration can adjust the length of the dress to your desired hemline.
- Adjusting the Straps: This alteration can ensure that the straps of the dress fit comfortably and securely.
- Adding or Removing Darts: Darts are small, V-shaped seams that can be used to shape the dress to your body. Adding or removing darts can improve the fit of the dress through the bust and waist.
Finding a Good Tailor
Finding a skilled and reliable tailor is essential for successful alterations. Ask friends or family for recommendations, or check online reviews. When you meet with the tailor, be sure to explain clearly what alterations you want and try on the dress so they can see how it fits. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and get a quote before committing to the alterations.
International Size Conversions
If you’re shopping from international brands, you’ll need to convert your measurements to the appropriate size system. Here’s a general overview of international size conversions:
- US Sizes: US sizes are typically numbered (e.g., 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16).
- UK Sizes: UK sizes are typically two sizes larger than US sizes (e.g., US 4 = UK 6).
- European Sizes: European sizes are typically 30-32 numbers larger than US sizes (e.g., US 4 = EU 36).
- Australian Sizes: Australian sizes are the same as UK sizes.
However, it’s important to note that these are just general guidelines. Size conversions can vary between brands, so always check the specific size chart for the brand you are purchasing from.
Conclusion: Dress to Impress with the Perfect Fit
Finding the perfect dress size doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By taking accurate measurements, consulting size charts, reading customer reviews, and considering alterations, you can confidently shop for dresses online and in stores. Remember that fit is key to looking and feeling your best. So, take the time to determine your dress size accurately, and you’ll be sure to find a dress that flatters your figure and makes you feel confident and beautiful. Happy shopping!
