When shopping for a dress, it’s important to know your measurements to ensure a perfect fit. Follow these simple steps to accurately measure yourself at home. All you need is a soft measuring tape, a mirror, and a friend to help, though you can do this on your own too!

1. Bust Measurement

Start by standing up straight with your arms relaxed at your sides. Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust, making sure the tape is straight across your back and doesn’t droop or twist.

The tape should feel snug but not tight. Look in the mirror to check that the tape is level all the way around. Write down the number in inches or centimeters, depending on your preference.

2. Waist Measurement

Your natural waist is the smallest part of your torso, located above your belly button and just below your ribcage. Wrap the tape around this area, ensuring it’s straight and snug but not too tight.

You should be able to fit a finger between the tape and your skin. If you’re unsure where your waistline is, gently bend to one side; the crease that forms is your natural waist.

Make sure to take the measurement while standing up straight.

3. Hip Measurement

To measure your hips, stand with your feet together. Wrap the measuring tape around the widest part of your hips and buttocks. Ensure the tape is straight and level all the way around, using the mirror to check. Just like with the bust and waist, the tape should sit comfortably against your body without squeezing.

4. Shoulder to Floor Measurement

This measurement is crucial for long dresses, especially evening gowns or formal dresses. Stand tall and relaxed. Have someone place the tape at the top of your shoulder, right where your shoulder meets your neck.

Then, let the tape drop down the length of your body until it touches the floor. Make sure you’re standing straight as they take this measurement.

5. Shoulder Width

To measure shoulder width, start by standing naturally with your arms relaxed. Have someone measure from the edge of one shoulder to the other, running the tape across the top of your back.

This measurement is especially useful for ensuring a comfortable fit in the upper part of your dress.

6. Hollow to Hem

This measurement is important if you’re ordering a custom-length dress. The hollow is the small indentation at the base of your neck, between your collarbones. Stand tall, and have someone measure from the hollow straight down to where you want the hem of the dress to fall, whether it’s above your knee, mid-calf, or down to the floor.

Tips for Accurate Measuring:

  • Always stand straight and relaxed when taking measurements.
  • Wear thin, form-fitting clothing or no clothing for the most accurate results.
  • Avoid pulling the tape too tight, as this can result in a dress that’s too small.
  • If you’re in doubt, it’s better to have a little extra room in the measurements than too little.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure your dress fits beautifully, whether it’s for a casual event or a formal occasion!