The Perfect Fit: Our guide to sizing and measurements for Brides and Bridesmaids
Finding your dream wedding or bridesmaid dress is a thrilling moment in your bridal journey. But what comes next is just as crucial to ensure your gown fits like a glove on your special day. At Cristello Bridal, we're here to guide you through the process of sizing and measurements, a critical step that bridges the gap between saying "yes" to the dress and seeing it tailored perfectly to your figure.
Step 1: Taking Accurate Measurements
Once you have selected your gown, the next significant step is to take your measurements. Your bridal consultant will measure your bust, waist, and hips. These measurements are essential as they determine the closest standard size of the dress that needs to be ordered from the supplier.
Understanding the Measurement Process:
**Bust:** Measure around the fullest part of your bust, ensuring the tape measure is straight and snug but not tight.
**Waist:** Measure around the narrowest part of your waist, typically about an inch above your belly button.
**Hips:** Measure around the fullest part of your hips, which is usually about 7 inches below your natural waistline.
These measurements are then compared against the supplier’s size guide. It’s important to note that bridal and bridesmaid dress sizes often differ from your regular clothing sizes, so don’t be alarmed if you see a number that’s different from what you usually wear.
Step 2: Ordering the Right Size
Bridal gowns and bridesmaid dresses are usually available in standard sizes and lengths. Based on your measurements, we select the size that best matches your largest measurement. This approach ensures that the gown can be altered down to fit your precise shape, as it's generally easier to take a dress in than to let it out. We will always consult you on the best size to order working with you and your bridesmaids to get the best result.
Why We Order to the Largest Measurement:
Ordering to your largest measurement is a common practice in bridal sizing. This method guarantees that the dress can accommodate your body comfortably and can be altered for a perfect fit. For example, if your hip measurement is size 14, but your bust is size 12, we would order a size 14 dress and tailor the bust and waist to match your figure.
Step 3: Factoring in Alterations
Alterations are a vital part of the dress fitting process. While the dress ordered will be the best fit possible from the manufacturer’s sizes, alterations are often necessary to achieve the perfect fit. It's customary for brides and bridesmaids to need at least some adjustments to their dresses.
Planning for Alterations:
**Budget:** Always include alteration costs in your budget. The complexity and extent of the alterations can affect the price and the seamstress can only give you price once she has seen what work needs doing. Even a ‘simple’ dress may have complex seams and fabrics which means the cost of alterations has to accommodate this.
**Timing:** Schedule your final fitting close to your wedding day but with enough leeway to make any last-minute tweaks. Typically, we start your alterations 10-12 weeks before the big day to allow for as many fittings as is required.
At Cristello Bridal, we promise to assist you every step of the way. From choosing your dress to the final fitting, our team is dedicated to ensuring your gown looks and feels perfect. Remember, the goal of the measurement and alteration process is not just to fit into the dress but to make the dress fit you, highlighting your unique beauty and making you feel spectacular on your special day.
For more guidance on choosing and fitting your bridal or bridesmaid dresses, visit us at Cristello Bridal. Let us help you navigate the intricate details of bridal fittings with ease and confidence!