Many Brides are under the impression their wedding dress size would be no different to the size they typically buy. However, the fabric of the dress, the brand, and style can affect how a wedding dress fits on your body. Therefore, these factors can impact which size you will need.
Typically in wedding dresses you’ll find you are at least a couple of sizes up from what you wear day to day. It’s good to keep in mind this is just a number and not to worry about that. When trying on dresses you’ll often find yourself dresses that may be too small or too big.
So ahead, we’ve answered some of the most asked questions regarding wedding dress sizing so that you’ve got a solid idea on how we make your dress the perfect fit, and dispel any myths you may have heard!
How To Find Wedding Dress Size
When you have found your wedding dress your Bridal Consultant will measure you in order to work out the best size to order for you taking into account the style, fabric, that particular designer’s size chart etc. Bear in mind though, most brides will need their dress altered so that it becomes the perfect fit.
Wedding dress sizes do typically come at least 2 sizes more than ready-to-wear dresses, which is why we advise to not worry that the dress may not be your typical size, as wedding dresses are designed with the knowledge that they’ll be altered.
Our advice is to not let your size dictate your dress. If you find a dress you absolutely adore but it’s, say, 4 sizes up than your usual size, then you shouldn’t let this be a deciding factor to opt for an alternative dress that fits you without as much as a leap in sizing.
The gown you choose should be one that you love and feel your best-self in, think how even more amazing you will feel when it's all fitted to you! When all your measurements and the other factors we mentioned are taken into account, and the dress is tailored to fit your body, the original size of the dress is irrelevant.
What Size Are Most Sample Wedding Dresses?
Some Bridal Shops will carry a limited range of sizes for their sample gowns. However, at Oliver’s Bridal and Formalwear, we try to offer an inclusive range of sizes to try on from 10 – 24 and most our dresses can be ordered in sizes 4-36.
In cases where you are trying on a dress that doesn’t fit perfectly on you, we’ll use clips or extensions to demonstrate how the dress will look.
If your measurements align closely with those of the sample gown, it should generally fit well.
If you decide to buy a wedding dress off the peg, it is normally possible to alter a dress down a couple of sizes without losing the integrity of the design. Although not as easy, some dresses can also be made bigger by a couple of sizes. However, resizing beyond this range can lead to disproportionate alterations. .
Should the dress appear too small then don’t worry, sample gowns typically have around an inch of extra fabric on major seams which can be let out.
Or another option if tight in the bodice we can also suggest changing the zipper to a corset back, which can provide another option.
One of our Bridal consultants will advise how we’ll navigate alterations, and give you total clarity on what needs to be done and how we’ll achieve the perfect fit for your dream dress.
Can Any Wedding Dress Be Altered?
All the dresses we carry at Oliver’s Bridal & Formalwear can be altered, and we find most brides will have some form of alteration. It’s very rare any dress will fit like a glove on any Bride.
Terry Hall, Fashion Director of New York City’s Kleinfeld Bridal says, “You can splurge on a price dress, but if it’s not altered properly it won’t look any better than a gown that’s a tenth of the cost.”
So it’s important to get those alterations, lovely Brides-to-be!
How Much Do Wedding Dress Alterations Cost?
Consider our seamstresses your fairy godmothers; making sure your wedding dress is truly the perfect fit!
Our fittings generally range from £150-£400. Rest assured that they will always agree the cost of the alterations with you, and there’s no pressure to commit immediately.
While you’re under no obligation to use our seamstresses, it is recommended you utilise our service as our seamstresses are well-versed in our dresses, brands, and have impeccable knowledge on how to make that dress fit perfect for you.
About Oliver’s Bridal and Formalwear
Oliver's Bridal and Formalwear has been serving brides for over 19 years.
Our Bridal shop is located in Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire - close to areas such as Essex and North London and we’ve served many happy Brides within these areas.
We're an award-winning business that treats our Brides with the utmost care - with glowing 5* reviews across Facebook and Google!
As an independent store, we provide that personal touch that makes your dress-shopping experience feel extra special.
Book your appointment with us now - we can’t wait to help you find the dress of your dreams!
To enquire call 01992 444217 or email us info@oliversbridalandformalwear.co.uk
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