What You Need to Know About Dress Sizing
At Bijoux Bridal, we know that conversations around sizing can sometimes feel a little nerve-wracking. Many brides worry about whether dresses will fit, what size they might need to order, or how bridal sizing compares to the high street. If you’ve ever felt anxious about this part of dress shopping, please know you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common worries we hear from brides before their appointment.
That’s exactly why our team is here. Our stylists will guide you through everything, from trying on gowns to recommending the best size for your dress. We’re here to take the pressure off so you can relax and enjoy the moment you find the one.
How will I know what dress size to order?
This is where we come in. Once you’ve found the dress you love, we’ll take your bust, waist and hip measurements and compare them to the designer’s size chart for that gown. Every designer is slightly different, so we’ll guide you through the process and recommend the size that will work best for you.
Will I need alterations?
In most cases, yes, and that’s completely normal! Wedding dresses are made to order rather than made to measure, which means alterations are usually needed to make the dress fit you perfectly. A skilled bridal seamstress will tailor the dress to your body so it feels comfortable, secure and beautifully fitted for your big day.
Is it true that bridal sizing is different from high street sizing?
Yes, it is! Most brides find their bridal size is usually 1–2 sizes larger than their usual high street size. This is completely normal and simply comes down to the way wedding dresses are structured and how each designer creates their sizing charts. The most important thing to remember is that the number on the label doesn’t matter. It’s just a number, and no one ever asks what size your wedding dress is!
What if I'm planning to lose weight before my wedding?
This is something many brides talk to us about, so please don’t worry, it’s a very common conversation during appointments. Once you’ve found your dress, we’ll take your measurements and talk through the sizing together. Your stylist will recommend the size that we feel will work best based on your measurements and the designer’s size chart. From there, you can decide what feels right for you. Many brides also find reassurance in knowing that a skilled bridal seamstress can usually take a dress in by two or sometimes even three sizes during alterations, giving you flexibility if your measurements change in the lead-up to your wedding.
What sample sizes do you have in store?
At Bijoux Bridal we carry a wide range of sample sizes so that more brides can try dresses on and see how they look and feel. Our sample gowns range from approximately UK size 10 up to UK size 36, and once you’ve chosen your dress it will be ordered in the size that works best for your measurements.
What if the sample dress doesn't fit me?
Don’t worry at all, this happens all the time! Our stylists are experts at clipping and pinning dresses so you can still get a really good idea of how the gown will look and fit in your size.
Will my dress fit perfectly when it arrives?
Your dress will arrive in the size ordered for you, but alterations are usually needed to achieve that perfect bridal fit. Think of it like the final stage, it’s where your dress truly becomes your dress.
I'm worried about getting my measurements taken and discussing sizing
We completely understand that this part of the process can feel a little nerve-wracking. We meet so many brides who feel exactly the same before their appointment, so please know you’re not alone. Taking your measurements is simply to help us recommend the best dress size for you, and our team always approaches this part of the appointment with care, sensitivity and professionalism. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable, supported and confident throughout the entire experience. And remember, sizing is just a number. What matters most is finding a dress that makes you feel amazing.
