How to Measure Yourself for a Formal Dress

One of the biggest concerns when shopping for formal dresses online is getting the size right. Unlike everyday clothing, formal dresses often have more structured construction and less room for error. Taking accurate measurements at home is the key to finding a dress that fits beautifully without extensive alterations.

What You'll Need

Before you begin, gather these essential items:

• A flexible measuring tape: The kind used for sewing, not a rigid metal tape measure. If you don't have one, you can use a piece of string and then measure it against a ruler.
• A well-fitting bra: Wear the undergarments you plan to wear with your formal dress when taking measurements.
• Form-fitting clothing or minimal clothing: Loose clothing can add centimetres and throw off your measurements.
• A mirror: Helpful for checking that the tape is positioned correctly.
• A friend (optional but helpful): Some measurements are easier to take with assistance.
• Pen and paper: Record all measurements immediately - you'd be surprised how quickly you forget them.

Essential Measurements

Most formal dress size charts require four key measurements. Here's how to take each one accurately:

1. Bust Measurement

Your bust measurement is taken at the fullest part of your chest. Here's how to do it correctly:

1. Stand straight with your arms relaxed at your sides.
2. Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust, typically across the nipple line.
3. Keep the tape parallel to the floor all the way around - check in the mirror that it hasn't dipped or risen at the back.
4. The tape should be snug but not tight. You should be able to slip a finger underneath.
5. Take a natural breath and record the measurement at the end of a normal exhale.

If you're between sizes, note down the exact measurement rather than rounding. Some retailers require this level of precision, and it's always better to have more information.

2. Waist Measurement

Your natural waist is the narrowest part of your torso, usually located above your belly button and below your rib cage.

1. Stand straight and find your natural waist by bending sideways - the crease that forms is your waist.
2. Wrap the tape around your natural waist, keeping it parallel to the floor.
3. Don't suck in your stomach - measure your natural, relaxed waist.
4. The tape should fit snugly without digging into your skin.
5. Record the measurement after a normal exhale.

3. Hip Measurement

The hip measurement is taken at the widest part of your hips and bottom, not at your hip bones.

1. Stand with your feet together.
2. Find the fullest part of your hips - this is usually about 18-23cm below your natural waist.
3. Wrap the tape around this fullest point, keeping it parallel to the floor.
4. Make sure the tape passes over your bottom at its widest point.
5. Don't pull the tape too tight - a fitted dress still needs some ease for movement.

4. Length Measurements

Length measurements help determine whether a dress will fall at the right point on your body. You may need one or more of these:

Hollow to Hem (for full-length gowns)

Measure from the hollow of your neck (the small dip between your collarbones) straight down to where you want the hem to fall. For floor-length dresses, measure to the floor, keeping in mind the heel height you plan to wear.

Shoulder to Waist

Measure from the top of your shoulder (where a bra strap would sit) down to your natural waist. This helps ensure the bodice fits correctly.

Waist to Floor

Measure from your natural waist straight down to the floor. Again, consider your planned heel height.

Additional Measurements for Specific Styles

Depending on the dress design, you might need these supplementary measurements:

Arm Length

For dresses with sleeves, measure from the top of your shoulder to your wrist bone with your arm slightly bent. This ensures comfortable sleeve length that allows for natural movement.

Shoulder Width

Measure across your back from one shoulder bone to the other. This is particularly important for dresses with structured shoulders or cap sleeves.

Under Bust

Measure directly under your bust, around your rib cage. This measurement is crucial for dresses with empire waists or built-in boning that sits below the bust.

Understanding Size Charts

Once you have your measurements, you'll need to compare them to the retailer's size chart. Here are some important points to keep in mind:

• Size charts vary: An Australian size 12 isn't universal. Always check the specific retailer's chart rather than assuming your usual size will apply.
• Measure, don't assume: Your formal dress size may differ from your everyday clothing size. Formal dresses often run smaller because of their structured construction.
• When between sizes: If your measurements fall between two sizes, generally size up. It's easier to take in a dress than to let it out.
• Consider the style: A fitted sheath dress requires more precise sizing than a flowy A-line style that's more forgiving.

Common Measurement Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors that lead to ill-fitting dresses:

• Measuring over bulky clothing: Even a thin jumper can add centimetres.
• Holding your breath: This creates artificially small measurements that don't reflect how you'll actually wear the dress.
• Measuring alone when you need help: Back measurements, in particular, are difficult to do accurately by yourself.
• Using an old, stretched measuring tape: Fabric tapes can stretch over time. Compare yours to a rigid ruler to check accuracy.
• Not standing straight: Posture affects measurements. Stand naturally - not ramrod stiff, but not slouching either.

Recording and Using Your Measurements

Create a measurement record that you can reference for future purchases:

1. Write down all measurements with the date taken.
2. Note what undergarments you wore and your planned heel height.
3. Retake measurements every few months or after significant body changes.
4. Keep this record handy when shopping online.

When to Seek Professional Help

Consider getting professionally measured at a bridal shop or tailor if:

• You're ordering a very expensive dress
• The dress requires extensive customisation
• You've struggled with online clothing purchases in the past
• You're unsure about any of your measurements

Most bridal shops and tailors will take measurements for a small fee or free if you're a potential customer. This small investment can save you the hassle and expense of returns or major alterations.

With accurate measurements in hand, you can shop for formal dresses online with confidence. Take your time, double-check your numbers, and remember that good measurement-taking is a skill that improves with practice.