Gown Sizing and Fittings for the Bride-to-Be

It’s so magical when you find “the one” — by that we mean your wedding dress! So what happens after you’ve found the gown of your dreams?

Size Matters

There’s no such thing as standard wedding gown sizing; sizes will vary from designer to designer. In everyday clothes, you might be a size 4 — in the dress of your dreams, a size 12. Don’t freak out! Such discrepancies in sizing are totally normal, and if you’re working with a wedding pro from a local bridal salon, you can rest easy. Your consultant will look at your designer’s size chart and order your gown accordingly.

Alterations 101

Barring some miracle, it’s safe to assume your dress will need alterations. Some bridal salons offer this service in house, which is a wonderfully convenient way to go. They might charge a flat fee, or charge based on the work that needs to be done and how quickly. If your bridal salon does not have a seamstress on site, ask your consultant for a recommendation; odds are they’ll have a good one.

Fit in Your Fittings

As a rule, brides should have their first fitting 8 to 10 weeks before their wedding day, and usually three or four fittings are required. For each fitting, make sure to wear the undergarments and shoes that you plan to wear on your wedding day — it makes all the difference in hem length and overall fit. The first fitting is a pin fit; this fitting should take the longest. The second is to confirm the first fit. The third and, usually, last fitting typically takes place the week of the wedding; this is when the bride says her final “I do” to the fit.

If you’re having anxiety over gown sizes and alterations, the best thing you can do is chat with your salon consultant. It’s their job to make this process be seamless (pun intended) and stress-free for you. Bottom line: Work with trusted professionals, and your gown is sure to fit like a dream.