Shopping for a wedding dress comes with a whole new vocabulary. Here’s a cheat sheet to help you navigate the most common terms you’ll hear during your boutique experience:

Made to Measure

This means your dress is custom-made based on your exact measurements. It helps ensure a near-perfect fit, but often comes with a longer timeline and higher price tag.

Made to Order

This is the most common ordering practice. Made to order means the dress is created in a standard size based on a company size chart. Orders are placed based on your measurements to get the closest fit possible, with alterations likely needed later.

Split Sizing

When a bride’s top and bottom measurements fall into different sizes, split sizing allows for a more tailored fit. This option can save you from extensive alterations down the road, but not all designers will offer split sizing options.

Trunk Show

A special event where designers showcase a larger collection of their gowns at a boutique. It’s a great time to see exclusive styles the store might not regularly carry and sometimes even meet the designer.

Sample Sale

Boutiques will sell their sample gowns at a discount during a sample sale. These are usually the gowns brides try on in-store, so they may need cleaning, repair, or alterations, but they’re usually a great budget-friendly option.

By understanding these terms, you’ll feel empowered and confident as you embark on your wedding dress shopping journey.

Hi, I’m Melissa, the sassy sewing and wedding pro you didn’t know you needed in your life. 

I’m the owner of deMelis Atelier, a top ranked alterations studio located in Connecticut, and the founder of Stitched Collective, a community for sewing professionals. I’m a master seamstress and wedding dress educator as well as an industry leader and trainer… and a lover of spicy mango margaritas.

I use my fashion and sewing knowledge to help brides and wedding pros alike. 

Be sure to check out my latest endeavors and access some of my favorite products too!