What size should I order my wedding dress in?

For many brides weddings and diets always seem to go hand in hand. The pressure to ‘drop a dress size’ before the big day can be somewhat overwhelming.

Of course, you want to look the very best on this momentous occasion, particularly as the pictures will capture your memories for life. The thing to remember is that your ‘better half’ is marrying the love of their life, and fell in love with you because of who you are, not what you look like.

So when it comes to choosing the wedding dress of your dreams, what size should it be ordered in? What will look best in the venue photographs? To add even more confusion to the saga, wedding dresses come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and you may not be the same size as you are for regular clothes. Here are some tips when shopping for that special dress:

1. Don’t shop too early, or too late

Whilst you may be putting in extra hours at the gym in order to tone up for the big day, don’t wait until you are in the shape of your life before trying on wedding dresses.

Ideally, you want to start the process 10 months before the wedding, and place the order no later than 6 months prior. On the other hand, don’t shop too early – remember, just with all fashion ranges there are seasonal trends.

2. Take a select few friends dress shopping

Think about the people closest to you who bring out the best in you, and make you feel great. Those are the friends you want around you when it comes to making such a big decision.

You may be stuck between wanting a long traditional dress or a shorter wedding dress. Think about who will give the best advice, putting you first.

3. Schedule an appointment with a professional seamstress

Wedding dress sizing can be a complete headache, so try and find someone who specialises in wedding dresses. They will know exactly the right measurements for you, and make sure you can get another visit booked in just before the wedding to allow for any adjustments.

4. Remember your bust size is not the same as your bra size

Don’t be worried if suddenly you feel like you’ve got larger overnight. Bust measures the fullest width of your chest, whereas bra size is the area below your boobs. To help you feel your best on the big day these measurements are best to get right early on.

5. Play it safe and order the correct size for your body as it is now

The best thing to do is to order your wedding dress in the size that you are currently. It’s much easier to take a dress in if it’s too large (it can be decreased by about four sizes whilst retaining the shape). However, a dress that’s too small can only be let out by one full size, as fabric will need to be added to it.

There are so many more tips when it comes to wedding dress shopping and @Olivia Grace has a great blog on her experience and things to keep in mind whilst wedding dress shopping.

The most important thing to remember is that you need to feel comfortable and happy in your dress. It doesn’t matter what the label in the back of it says, you will look amazing whatever. Act confident and enjoy your special day!

To get in touch with a member of the team, please email or call us via the contact details below. Alternatively, if you'd like to request a brochure or enquire about date availability, please click 'Enquire Now' in the menu at the top of this page.

Katie Davies

T: +44 1487 829 555
E: info@holmewood-hall.co.uk