Do Wedding Dresses Run True to Size?


Wedding Dresses 101 | By:cocomelody

“Information for this article was provided by Chime”

If you’re in the market for a wedding dress, you might be surprised to find that many retailers offer dresses that don’t fit as you would expect. The reason? Well, despite the wedding industry evolving as a whole, parts of it remain stuck in the past.

Most of the designer dresses you see on a typical retailer’s shelves originate in Europe. Even companies typically thought of as American employ European designers. As such, the entire industry has, and continues to base their gowns off of European bridal size charts, which typically run smaller than their American counterparts.

Style: #h1ii0017, Image Credit: Here North Photography

However, it would be wrong to assume that all European women have smaller frames than American women. These bridal size charts are based on body types from nearly five decades ago. As body types have changed over the years—be it the result of a more athletic lifestyle, or changes in eating habits—most bridal size charts have not.

But here’s the good news

Wedding dresses from Cocomelody are, in fact, true to size. We also set ourselves apart by offering custom sizes to make sure you get the best fit!

When looking for a wedding dress, it’s important to factor in your personal measurements, as opposed to an overall dress size. Most notably, you’ll want to check your bust, waist, and hip measurements. Want to make sure you’re measuring correctly? Please refer to our How to Measure page. Doing so will help you achieve a more form-fitting, tailored look that’s perfect for you!

Our dresses are designed to have an extra 1-1.5 inches of ease built in to give you more comfort and breathability. In the event that you require a special size, or are having trouble choosing sizes, please contact us.

Style: #LWZF15028, Image Credit: Studio 23 Photo

While taking your measurements will help ensure you purchase the right size, it’s entirely normal to have a few minor alterations done. Too often, brides are reluctant to consider the expense of undergoing alterations. But guilt is not a feeling you should feel like you have to endure as you head into your wedding day. Especially when there are such simple ways to grow your savings—you can even do it automatically!

After all, alterations are widely considered to be a part of the overall package in purchasing the wedding dress of your dreams. Every adjustment will help make sure your gown is something that fits you and only you—so you look perfect (and feel confident) as you walk down the aisle.

At the end of the day, your wedding dress should be something you feel beautiful in. So, don’t fret about the number—go with what’s comfortable and looks best on you!

Style: #LD3906, Image Credit: White Studio Project

Ready to find the dress of your dreams? Shop our spectacular assortment of wedding dresses online. In need of expert seamstress? Book an appointment and visit our flagship Los Angeles store!