Measuring Instructions

For a Dress with a Perfect Fit

For the best fit, DON'T GUESS at your size. These dresses run about ONE SIZE SMALLER than your normal clothing size. Measuring very carefully will give you the best fit with the least amount of alterations. Our gowns are made for girls 5'8"-5'9" tall. If you are shorter, you may have to have the straps shortened, dress hemmed or wear a higher heel to accommodate the length. Measure first - then determine your size from the size charts listed with the dress. Order the size that comes closest to your measurements. If between sizes, choose the larger size as it is always easier to alter the dress down than to let it out. Remember, the size will not be displayed on the dress when you are wearing it. Don't get hung up on numbers. You'll look best in a dress that fits, no matter what the size.

About the Size Charts

Size charts are very important when it comes to choosing the best fit for your prom, wedding, or special occasion dress. When ordering a dress it is necessary to take your measurements carefully and then compare them to the corresponding manufacturer's size chart in order to determine the best size for you. Each size chart can be found near the color and size choices for a dress, and are displayed in inches. When in doubt, we always recommend ordering the size that matches your largest measurement and then having the dress altered down as needed.

Here's How to Measure

Measure over undergarments, keep measuring tape level and pull it snug, but not tight. (If you will be wearing special undergarments with your dress, measure over those.) Don't have a measuring tape? Just use a piece of string then very carefully measure it with a ruler!

A. BUST: Measure at the fullest part over an unpadded bra (or the undergarments you will wear with the dress).
B. WAIST: Measure at smallest part - about 2 inches above the belly button.
C. HIPS: Measure around fullest part of hips keeping tape level all around.

VERY IMPORTANT!  For each inch, dresses generally go up 1 size.  So, if you measure over clothing, your dress will be too large. Do not measure your waist at your belly button as this is too low and will cause you to order a dress too large. Measure at the smallest part of your waist about 2 inches above your belly button.

Hollow to Hem
Measure from the base of the neck (hollow of the neck) to the floor. This measurement is typically only used for wedding dresses and flower girl dresses. If this measurement is important you will see a note on the dress product. All missy and womens dresses are made to fit heights of 5'8" - 5'9" (unless otherwise stated on the product). Junior bridesmaid dresses have pre-teen sizing and do not follow this height measurement. Please see specific product size charts for the most accurate information for that style. See our FAQs for more information.