How to Measure Yourself for a Wedding Dress: The Complete Guide

If you’ve ever googled “how to measure myself for a wedding dress” at 11pm — you’re not alone. It’s one of the most-searched questions among brides ordering online, and it’s a completely understandable concern. Getting your measurements right is the difference between a dress that fits perfectly from day one and one that needs significant alterations.

At Lace & Love, we’ve guided hundreds of brides through this process. Here’s exactly what to do, step by step.

What You Need

A soft fabric measuring tape (not a stiff metal tape measure). A friend to help — accuracy is much better with two people. The underwear or foundation garments you plan to wear on your wedding day. Your wedding shoes, or know the heel height.

The 5 Measurements You Need

1. Bust

Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest — usually across the nipple line. The tape should be parallel to the floor, not riding up at the back. Breathe normally and don’t pull the tape tight — it should sit comfortably snug.

2. Waist

This is the narrowest part of your torso — typically 1 to 2 inches above your belly button. If you’re not sure where your natural waist is, bend to the side and where you crease is your waist. Measure there.

3. Hips

Measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat — usually 7 to 9 inches below your natural waist. Stand with your feet together for this measurement.

4. Height

Stand against a wall without shoes. Have someone mark the top of your head and measure from that point to the floor. This is your total height.

5. Heel Height

This tells us how long to make the skirt. If you plan to wear heels, measure the heel height. If you’re going barefoot or in flat sandals, let us know.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Measuring over thick clothing. Always measure in your wedding underwear or a very thin layer. Pulling the tape too tight. It should sit comfortably against your body, not compressing it. Measuring alone. It’s almost impossible to get accurate measurements on yourself, especially bust and hips. Ask a friend.

Using your current clothes size. Clothing sizes vary wildly between brands and don’t translate to made-to-measure dressmaking. Always measure.

What If I’m Between Sizes?

This is exactly why made-to-measure is so powerful. You’re never ‘between sizes’ with a handmade gown — your measurements are your size. We cut the pattern specifically for your body, so if your bust is a size 8 and your hips are a size 12, that’s exactly what we make.

What If I’m Still Not Sure?

Message us on WhatsApp or email before you order. We’ll help you measure, answer questions about fit, and recommend the right size for your specific gown. Shany personally handles all fitting questions — and she loves helping brides feel confident in this process.

Ready to find your perfect gown? Browse our collection of handmade boho wedding dresses — all made to your exact measurements from $860.