The 2025 Guide to Bridal Sizing
Let’s start by addressing the elephant in the room: sizing is conventional, not personal—you’re more than a number. While we’re at it, let’s also debunk the myth that bridal sizing is always two sizes bigger than your street size. Think of bridal sizing as a completely different language—you’ll need a fresh perspective to understand it. The main stand out is: From production to alterations the dress is made to fit you, not the other way around. But, let’s be clear, in the same way your street clothes aren’t always an exact fit, bridal sizing is not an exact science. You’re likely still going to need a little tuck here and there, but that’s what alterations are for.
So how did bridal sizing drift so far from the sizes we’re used to? Around the 1970s, something called vanity sizing emerged. Basically, clothing sizes shifted to become larger—so someone who was once a 6 would now be around a 2 in vanity sizing. However, bridal sizing skipped the vanity sizing trend and remains the same as it was in the 1950s.
We mentioned bridal sizing isn’t an exact science, but it’s aimed to be as close as possible so that your alterations are minimal in effort and cost. At Adore, we determine sizing by taking your bust, waist, and hip measurements. Then, we look at the designer size chart that corresponds to your dress to see what size will be the best overall fit. Let’s say your bust and waist put you in a size 14, and your hips put you in a size 12. We would recommend a size 14. When the dress comes in, you’ll take it to your seamstress, and she’ll work her magic to give you your perfect fit.
It’s also important to know that every designer is a little different and has their own size chart. Someone could be a size 8 in one designer's chart and a 12 in another. Sizing could also differ based on the dress you are ordering! A bride wearing a fitted dress will need to consider hip measurements, whereas a bride wearing an a-line dress would only really need to focus on bust and waist.
Remember when I mentioned that bridal sizing is a completely different language? That’s exactly what our stylists are here for—they’re basically fluent translators at your disposal! Your stylist will walk you through the size chart and answer any questions you have. So, no need to stress—we’ve got you covered.
At the end of the day, the number on the tag doesn’t matter—no one will see it, but everyone will see how stunningly confident you look walking down the aisle in the dress you love.
All photos by Lauren Anderson Photography
Our bridal stylists know exactly how to help you find your dream dress, order the correct size and make you feel amazing!
