How To Measure Yourself For A Bridesmaid Dress

At Anne Priscilla Bridal, we believe that being measured by a professional in-store by our expert team is the optimum way to ensure the best fit for your bridesmaids dress. However, we understand that circumstances might not always allow for an in-person visit. That's why we have prepared a comprehensive Home Measurement Guide to assist you in measuring yourself for your bridesmaids dress. While we highly recommend professional measurements, this guide will help you achieve accurate measurements from the comfort of your home. Rest assured, we are committed to making your bridal journey as smooth as possible, whether in-store or from a distance. Happy measuring!

What to measure:

  • Note, this is not the same thing as your bra size! Take the tape measure around your back and under your armpits before meeting at the fullest part of your bust. Remember to wear the same bra (if any) you'll be wearing with the dress. Record the measurement from the very end of your tape measure.

  • Your natural waistline is the narrowest part of your torso. To find this point, bend slightly to the side and make note of the natural crease in your waistline. Wrap the tape measure around this crease, which should be roughly two inches above your belly button.

  • To measure your hips, stand naturally with your feet together. Wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your hips and backside. Make sure that tape measure is level all the way around by looking in a full-length mirror while you measure.

  • This measurement is the dress length from the hollow of your neck to the hemline. It will help you determine if you need to order extra length on full-length styles. First, make sure you're wearing shoes of a similar height to those you'll be wearing with your dress. Next, measure from the hollow of your neck (the center of your collarbone) to the floor

NOTE: this video is specific to Dessy dresses. However, the technique remains the same for all dress order. Your AP stylist will assist with each designer/style and recommend the best fit based on these measurements.

Please be to sure to consider these important details:

  • Consider your undergarments. What undergarments do you plan to wear with your bridesmaid dress? Be sure to wear them while you measure yourself to get the most accurate measurements possible.

  • Don't forget your shoes. On a similar note, remember to bring shoes that are the same height as the shoes you plan to wear on the bride's big day. If you're wearing a long bridesmaid dress, you'll want to factor in your heel height before you get the dress tailored.

  • Give yourself some breathing room. The tape measure should be snug against your body without being too tight. If you can't squeeze a fingertip underneath the tape measure, you're pulling it too tight.

  • Breathe normally. Avoid sucking in or holding your breath. The goal of getting your measurements is not to achieve the lowest number you possibly can. It's to end up with a comfortable and flattering bridesmaid dress that makes you feel amazing.

  • When in doubt, size up. Not sure if your hips are 40” or 41”? Jot down 41” if you're not confident in your measuring abilities. Remember: It's a lot easier to take a bridesmaid dress in than it is to let one out!