Why Bridal Sizes Don’t Always Match Street Sizes & What to Expect
One of the biggest surprises brides face when shopping for a wedding dress is bridal dress sizing. If you’re usually a size 6 in everyday clothes, don’t be shocked if your dream dress is a size 8, 10, or even 12 in bridal.
Before you panic—this is completely normal! Bridal sizing follows a different system than ready-to-wear fashion, and understanding how it works will help you feel more prepared and confident during your appointment at Elizabeth Scott Bridal.
Why Are Bridal Sizes Different?
Bridal sizing is based on traditional European patterns that haven’t changed much over the years. Many designers still follow these outdated measurements, which tend to run smaller than modern street sizes.
✔️ Bridal sizes often run 1-2 sizes bigger than your normal size.
✔️ Each designer has different size charts, meaning your size can vary between brands.
✔️ It’s not about the number—it’s about the fit! Bridal gowns are structured differently than everyday clothes, which is why they feel snug in certain areas.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t focus on the number—focus on how the dress makes you feel!
How to Find the Right Bridal Size
At Elizabeth Scott Bridal, our expert stylists will take your exact measurements and compare them to each designer’s size chart to determine the best fit. Since wedding dresses aren’t typically custom-sized off the rack, we order the closest match to your measurements, knowing alterations will be needed.
What We Measure:
📏 Bust – The fullest part of your chest (not your bra size!)
📏 Waist – The smallest part of your torso
📏 Hips – The widest part of your lower body
If your measurements fall between sizes, we usually order up since it’s easier to take a dress in than let it out.
What If the Sample Dress Doesn’t Fit?
Bridal boutiques carry sample sizes, which means the dress you try on may not fit perfectly—and that’s okay! Your stylist will use clips, panels, and pins to give you the best idea of how it will look in your size.
👗 If a dress is too big: We’ll clip and adjust it to show the final look.
👗 If a dress is too small: We can leave the back open or use a fabric insert to help you visualize the fit.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t judge the final look by the sample fit! Your actual gown will be ordered in the right size and tailored to perfection.
The Role of Alterations
Almost every wedding dress requires alterations to ensure a flawless fit. Even if the size is perfect, gowns are designed with extra length and structure, meaning adjustments are needed to tailor the dress to your body.
✂️ Common Alterations Include:
✔️ Hemming the length
✔️ Taking in or letting out the bodice
✔️ Adjusting straps or sleeves
✔️ Adding a bustle for the train
Plan for 2-3 fittings to make sure everything is perfect before your big day.
Final Thoughts: It’s All About the Fit, Not the Number!
Bridal sizing can feel confusing, but don’t let the number on the tag define how you feel in your dream dress. Wedding gowns are meant to fit and flatter your shape, and with expert alterations, your dress will feel like it was made just for you.
💍 Ready to find the perfect fit? Book your appointment at Elizabeth Scott Bridal, and let’s find a gown that makes you feel absolutely stunning!