When it comes to wedding dress shopping, one of the biggest surprises for many brides is bridal sizing. It’s not uncommon to try on a gown that fits beautifully, only to find the number on the tag doesn’t match what you’re used to seeing in the clothes you wear every day.
Don't worry—this is completely normal.
Why Is Bridal Sizing Different?
Every day clothes are usually made in one place and sized for a specific region — for example, a size 4 in North America is a size 12 in the U.K. But bridal gowns are designed, made, and sold worldwide, using fabrics and teams from different countries. Because sizing varies so much by region, bridal designers use a standardized system. So a North American size 4 or U.K. 12 would typically be around a bridal size 8.
In general, bridal sizes run 1–2 sizes larger than your regular size.
Bridal sizing follows a standardized system built around pre-cut patterns, which means dresses are made to fit a general set of measurements, not custom-made to your body's measurements . Wedding gowns have multiple layers of fabric, lace, and beading, and unlike stretchy everyday clothes with spandex, wedding dresses don’t stretch. That means that each wedding dress will need alterations to fit each bride perfectly.
For example, two brides might both be size 8, but with very different body frames; alterations tailor each wedding dress to fit each bride’s unique body.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
During your bridal appointment, we’ll guide you through trying on sample dresses. Sample dresses are the gowns that bridal shops keep in-store for brides to try on before ordering their own brand new dress. (Samples are essentially the display/try-on model). Each sample dress is typically available in one size in the store.
If a sample dress is too big or too small, don’t worry! Our expert bridal consultants use strategic techniques to help you visualize exactly how the gown will look once it’s ordered in your size and professionally altered to your body shape. We know how to highlight the right fit so you can focus on finding the dress you love.
How We Determine Your Size
Once you say “YES” to the dress, we’ll take your measurements; bust, waist, and hips, and compare them to the designer’s size chart. If your measurements are falling between sizes, we usually recommend ordering the larger size, as it's easier to take a dress in than to let it out. But don't worry- we’ll guide you through choosing the right size!
Final Thoughts
Bridal sizing might feel a little confusing at first, but we’re here to make the process easy and stress-free. Remember: the number on the label is just that—a number.
What truly matters is how you feel in the dress!!