Wedding Dress Sizes: Why the Number on the Label Doesn’t Matter
Many brides can get hung up on the number inside the dress, when really, it shouldn’t be a big deal at all. Want to know why? Most wedding gowns aren’t true to size. Yep, you read that right. In fact, bridal gowns typically run one to two sizes smaller than what you’d find on the high street.
Let’s say you’re usually a UK size 12. You might feel surprised (or even a bit offended) if a bridal consultant hands you a size 16 gown. But you really don’t need to stress. The number on the label means nothing compared to how you look and feel in the dress. And guess what? Nobody else is going to see that label anyway.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about wedding dress sizing, from the quirky history of bridal sizes to how to measure yourself properly, and what to expect at your fittings. We’ll even cover plus-size considerations, international conversions, and tips for finding the most flattering fit for your body shape.
A Brief History of Bridal Sizing
Fashion changes all the time, trends from decades ago resurface, reimagined with a modern twist. But the bridal industry? It holds onto tradition a little more tightly.
Many of the most prominent bridal designers come from Europe or the US, and their size charts have historically been smaller than UK brands. Combine that with the fact that each designer uses its own custom pattern blocks and measurements, and it’s no surprise that bridal sizing often feels like it’s from another planet.
So, don’t panic if the number on your wedding gown doesn’t match what you’re used to wearing. It’s not you, it’s the chart.
Why Wedding Dresses Run Small
There are a few reasons for this sizing difference:
Historical Standards: Bridal designers often use older, traditional sizing models that haven’t been updated in decades.
Precision Fit: Gowns are designed to be altered to your body, so they’re created to be taken in, not let out.
Vanity Sizing Doesn’t Apply: Streetwear brands often inflate sizes to make customers feel better. Bridal designers typically don’t.
How to Measure Yourself for a Wedding Dress
If you’re buying from a bridal shop or online, get your hands on the designer’s specific size chart. Each one is slightly different, so measurements are key.
Here’s what you’ll need to measure:
Bust (at the fullest point)
Waist (the narrowest part of your torso)
Hips (the widest part of your lower half)
Always measure in inches or centimetres using a flexible measuring tape. If you’re between sizes, go for the larger size, it’s much easier to take a dress in than to let it out.
Pro tip: Get a friend to help, or book a local seamstress for the most accurate measurements. Some online bridal brands even offer virtual fitting tools , use them if available.
Size Guides:
UK, US & European Size Chart Comparison
Since many gowns are designed abroad, knowing your international size equivalents can be helpful.
Note: Some designers may vary slightly, so always check their individual chart.
Tips for Trying On Dresses
Wear the right undergarments: If you plan to wear shapewear or a specific bra on your wedding day, bring them to your fitting.
Match your heel height: Try dresses on with shoes that are the same height as what you’ll wear on the big day.
Let the stylist guide you: Bridal stylists know each designer's quirks inside and out. Trust their sizing recommendations and be open to trying sizes that might surprise you.
How Many Sizes Can You Alter a Wedding Dress?
Most wedding dresses are designed to be altered. A skilled seamstress can typically:
Take a dress in by up to two sizes
Let a dress out by one size (at most)
Adjust straps, hems, bust support, and more
Have you got a wedding dress that’s fitting a little too large? Perhaps you’ve lost weight in the run-up to the big day and are now left with some extra fabric on either side of your bust, waist, or hips? Or perhaps it’s the other way round and you’ve gained weight due to early pregnancy or comfort eating, or maybe you chose a dress that was a bit too small. Not to worry. Here’s the 101 on wedding dress alterations, including how much you can take them in or out, average costs, plus some generally recommended dos and don’ts.
First off, ask your bridal consultant if they offer tailoring services in-house. Not only is it a huge time-saver, but those seamstresses will have likely worked with your specific dress before, or similar styles by the same designer. This puts your gown in safe hands. Many bridal shops will also give you a small discount for choosing to do your alterations with them.
Order a size that fits your current body, not your “goal weight.” Dresses are much easier to take in than to let out, and crash dieting isn’t worth the stress.
Taking Wedding Dresses In
Taking in a wedding dress by one to two sizes is pretty common, and should still maintain the original cut or shape. That being said, buying closer to your actual size is generally better because not only will you save money in alterations, the dress will also look its best when it’s kept closest to how it was originally designed.
However, if you’ve fallen in love with a sample gown that’s miles too big, a talented tailor or skilled seamstress can work wonders to resize the dress. After all, most people won't fit the standard measurements of any dress perfectly, and you’ll be pleased to know that it’s easier to take in than it is to let out. Always go with the larger size if you find yourself split between two.
Many brides plan to lose weight or get in shape for their wedding day, but this can make it difficult when ordering a wedding dress 6 months in advance for example.
Letting Wedding Dresses Out
While this is trickier than taking in, it’s not an impossible task. Many dresses will have extra seam allowance and can be comfortably let out by a whole dress size without creating any structural issues. Anything more than that and your tailor or seamstress will have to get very creative with their tools and skills. Adding discreet side panels is an option, for example.
Average Costs for Wedding Dress Alterations
The cost of alterations varies according to how much work needs to be done and the kind of alteration it is. As a rough guide, somewhere between £275 and £350 is a fair estimate for standard alterations (hem, taking in the waist, hips, and bust, darts, etc.). For more complicated alterations, you may be looking at a figure closer to £450–£525. On average, three fittings are needed when altering a wedding dress. The standard protocol is as follows:
First fitting: The dress is pinned and tailored to fit you
Second fitting: any outstanding alterations are made
Third fitting: you try the dress on to make sure you're 100% happy, and then you take it home!
We advise you to include alterations in your overall wedding dress budget because virtually all wedding gowns need alterations of some sort.
Sizing Advice for Every Body
For Plus-Size Brides:
Look for designers that offer extended size ranges or specialise in curve collections.
Don’t settle for limited sample sizes, some shops will happily order specific samples for you to try.
For Petite Brides:
Pay attention to bodice length and proportion. Look for designers who offer petite sizing, or factor in alterations for a proper fit.
For Every Body Shape:
A-line and empire silhouettes flatter most figures.
Mermaid and trumpet styles suit hourglass shapes.
Ballgowns highlight waists and create balance for pear-shaped brides.
Sustainability and Sizing
Sample dresses often go unworn or unused. Choosing a made-to-order gown or shopping from eco-conscious designers helps reduce waste.
Bonus: made-to-order dresses are more likely to fit your measurements with fewer alterations needed.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, your ultimate guide to wedding gown sizing. Remember, the number inside your dress isn’t nearly as important as how it makes you feel. Your wedding day is about celebrating you, not a label.
Whether you're a size 6 or a size 26, there is a dream dress out there that will fit and flatter your unique shape. Trust your stylist, know your measurements, and focus on the magic of the moment.
Now go say yes to the dress, whatever the number on the tag says.
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