Almost all gowns that have been worn have had some alterations done to them.  Even if the gown is new and had never been altered, every manufacturer's size chart differs.  So to make things simpler, we've created our own "standard" size chart which we try to loosely fit our gowns into so you'll have an idea of what size it is.  This is just a place to start--pay special attention to the gown's measurements and measure yourself (see below on instructions on how to do so) to make sure the gown is a good size for you, or at least larger than your measurements so it can be altered down to fit by your seamstress. 
 

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Gown Length – in additional to choosing a size, you'll want to pay special attention to the length of the gown.  In most cases if the gown is too long for you it can be altered by your seamstress to fit, however if it is too short, either you'll need to re-work the dress or it's just not going to work for you.  Most of our gowns, if used, will list the height of our client and the heel height of the shoe worn with the dress to give you a good idea of the length.  We also may provide a “Hollow to Hem” measurement, or a measurement from the top of the bodice to the hem.

Here's how to take your Hollow to Hem Measurement:  While wearing shoes of similar height that you hope to wear with your dress, have a friend measure the distance between your “hollow,” which is the hollow impression at the base of the front of your neck, to the hem of your gown.  Be sure you are standing up very straight when taking this measurement.

How to Measure Yourself

Bust Measurement:  measure around the widest part of your back, continuing the measuring tape straight across the top of your bust, not under the bust line.  Please note:  this is not the same as a “bra size” measurement (for example, a 34A is very different from a 34D).  Also note that the bra that you are wearing or plan to wear may make a difference in this measurement.

Waist Measurement:  measure around your “natural” waist--generally the narrowest part about 1.5” above your belly button.  Please note: this is not the same as a jean waist size measurement.

Hip Measurement:  (this measurement need not be provided if it is a full skirt) measure around the largest part of your hip.  This is generally located about 7” below your waist measurement, however may be higher or lower depending on your torso and height.