Precision is the name of the game when it comes to choosing what size to order for your wedding dress.

Most bridal shops work with ‘made-to-order’ wedding dresses. As a stylist, you’ll take your bride’s measurements, compare them against the designer’s size chart, and send the order to the factory to put it into production.

Once the gown arrives, it will most likely require some level of alteration, since very few clients match a designer’s size chart exactly. Below are key tips and best practices to guide accurate measurement and size selection when supporting brides with made-to-order wedding dresses.

Ensure clients are standing with good posture:

Shoulders are back, feet together, standing up tall but not exaggerated.

Hold the tape measure perfectly horizontal:

Don’t let it twist, drop, dip, etc.; keep it parallel to the floor.

Know the three base measurements for made-to-order wedding dresses:

Bust, waist and hip. Here’s what to know about each measurement:

Bust: Measure at the apex or widest part of the bust line and across the back bra line.

Waist: While it’s typically the smallest part of the midsection, everyone’s body shape is different. For example, for someone with a wider middle, the measurement should be taken above the hip bones and usually about an inch above the naval, yet below the rib cage.

Hip: Hip measurement is typically taken at the widest part of the hips, usually across the middle of the rear.

Apply these principles for perfect measurements:

Give a squeeze or a wiggle: For the bust and waist measurement, hold your tape measure and give a small squeeze, then ask clients to take a deep breath from their chest. As they relax back into their standing position, continue holding the tape securely and note the measurement.

For the hip measurement, you can ask them to give a small bend in the knees and move their hips a little to be sure they aren’t too restricted.

Ask questions: You can ask questions like, “Does that feel secure to you?” to see if you need to adjust.

Always measure twice: If measurements differ, do it a third time.

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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!