Secrets to dress sizes

Today I'll be sharing some insight on how dress consultants arrive at your dress size.  For most brides to be, this will be their first time trying on a bridal gown.  It is only fair that you would think that your everyday or department store sizes will be the same for your bridal dress.  Sorry ladies, that's just not true.  The difference between your wedding gown and your Macy's dress are the layers and build of the garments.  Most bridal gowns will have no less than four layers: lining, crinoline, boning and the external fabric.  When a dress is created it may start out being for a size 10 but after all of the foundation, altering and stitching, the end result could be fitting for 9 1/2.  On top of that, you the bride will add a bra or cups, another slip and body foundation.  All of this should be accounted for when trying on dresses.
Now that you know bridal sizes and everyday sizes can be two different numbers, how do you know what to get?  At your bridal appointment you'll be asked for your everyday size.  This will help your consultant get an idea of what you could be in a gown.  You could very well fit a gown that is in your everyday size but this depends on variables such as body shape, dress shape, and foundation. 
Here's a secret ladies, each designer uses their own size chart!  Why is that a big deal?  Well, if you're the type to focus on size and numbers, you'll find that no one gown is made the same.  View the size charts below from Allure Bridals, Watters Wtoo and look at the measurements for a size 10 gown.  You'll notice there is a 2 inch difference in bust and waist.  According to the chart, a size 10 in Allure is equal to size 6 in Wtoo.  So you see, your dress size also depends on the designer.
As I have said before, a size is just a number.  The goal at your dress appointment is to find the look you want regardless the size you need to order.  If you are interested in a personal shopping experience with a veteran consultant, please fill out our contact form and inquire about our Shopping and Styling package.  We can take all of the wondering and anxiety out of the experience so you can have fun putting on a show for your entourage.

Allure Bridals

Wtoo by Watters *plus sizes not included in image