The Perfect Fit

How to Measure Yourself:

Two things, first it is much easier with a friend and a fabric tape measure (or a ribbon you can measure with a ruler later) AND, you need to wear the proper undergarments. There are some amazing products out there that can shape and smooth your body to look its best. If you have a body shaper like Spanxs, wear that. If not, you can make do with control top pantyhose and a bustier or even a tight one-piece bathing suit. These can change your measurements by a couple inches and make a svelter you. These vintage dresses are tiny, so we need all the help we can get!

Every garment you wear has to be a little larger than you are for you to fit inside it. Bridal wear typically fits snugly, which means that the gown will need to be one to two inches larger than you are for proper freedom of movement. Another good way to help ensure a proper fit is to measure a well fitting dress you already have and compare the numbers to the dress you are considering.

Taking the Measurements:

Bust: Measure around the fullest part of the bust with the arms raised only enough to get the tape measure around you. Stand up straight and comfortably - don't round your shoulders or slouch. Your bra size is your chest measured just beneath your breasts.
Waist: Wrap the measuring tape around your waist. Stand straight and let the tape settle at your natural waistline.
Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips - this is about where your wrists reach when you are standing straight with your arms at your sides.
Length: Measure yourself from the center of the top of your shoulder (where the seam is) straight down your front and over your breast to the floor.