How to Measure for a Bridesmaid Dress at Home
By Kennedy Blue | Bridesmaid Dresses in 70+ Colors, Sizes 00-32 | Published: 2026-10-14
Category: How-to Guides
Get accurate bust, waist, and hip measurements at home with this step-by-step guide. Learn common mistakes to avoid and how to use a bridesmaid dress size chart.
Quick answer
To measure for a bridesmaid dress at home, wear light clothing and use a soft measuring tape. Measure your bust at the fullest point, your natural waist at the narrowest point, and your hips at the widest point. Always compare your measurements to the specific bridesmaid dress size chart for the dress you're ordering, as sizing varies by brand and style.
Why accurate measurements matter
Bridesmaid dresses are often ordered months in advance, so getting the right size from the start saves time and stress. Most dresses are designed to be altered, but starting with accurate measurements ensures the best fit and minimizes costly alterations. A bridesmaid dress size chart is your best tool—not your usual clothing size—because formalwear sizing can differ significantly from ready-to-wear.
What you'll need
Before you begin, gather a soft measuring tape, a mirror, and a friend to help. Wear lightweight clothing or undergarments that you plan to wear with the dress. Stand up straight with your feet together and relax your body—no need to suck in or flex. If you're measuring yourself, use a mirror to keep the tape level and parallel to the floor.
How to measure your bust
Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust, usually across the nipple line. Keep the tape snug but not tight, and make sure it's level all the way around. Record the number to the nearest half-inch. If you're between sizes, it's often better to size up and have the dress taken in, especially for styles with a fitted bodice.
How to measure your waist
Find your natural waist by bending to one side—the crease that forms is your natural waistline. Measure around this point, keeping the tape comfortably loose. Don't pull it tight or hold your breath. Write down the measurement. For dresses with a defined waistband or sash, like the Nica junior bridesmaid dress, an accurate waist measurement is key for a flattering fit.
How to measure your hips
Stand with your feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat, usually about 7–9 inches below your natural waist. Keep the tape level and snug. This measurement is especially important for A-line and fit-and-flare silhouettes. If your hips are significantly larger than your bust, you may need to order a size that accommodates your hips and have the bodice altered.
Additional measurements to consider
Some dresses may require a hollow-to-hem measurement, which is the distance from the hollow of your neck to the hemline. This is common for floor-length gowns. Also, consider your height and shoe height if you're ordering a long dress. For strapless styles like the Audrey Platinum, you may also want to measure your upper bust to ensure the dress stays secure.
Step-by-step measuring guide
- Step 1: Prepare your measuring tools: Use a soft measuring tape, wear light clothing, and stand in front of a mirror. If possible, have a friend help to keep the tape level. Checkpoint: Ensure the tape is not twisted and lies flat against your body.
- Step 2: Measure your bust: Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust, keeping it snug but not tight. Record the measurement to the nearest half-inch. Common mistake: Pulling the tape too tight or measuring over thick clothing.
- Step 3: Measure your natural waist: Find your natural waist by bending to one side. Measure around the crease, keeping the tape comfortably loose. Record the measurement. Checkpoint: The tape should be parallel to the floor all the way around.
- Step 4: Measure your hips: Stand with feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat. Keep the tape level and snug. Common mistake: Measuring too high or too low; the widest point is usually 7–9 inches below your waist.
- Step 5: Compare to the size chart: Use the specific bridesmaid dress size chart for the dress you're ordering. If your measurements fall between sizes, order the larger size and plan for alterations. Checkpoint: Always double-check the brand's size chart, as sizing varies.
- Step 6: Consider additional measurements: For floor-length dresses, measure hollow-to-hem. For strapless styles, measure your upper bust. Note your height and planned shoe height. Next step: Share your measurements with your bridal party to ensure consistency.
Product facts
- Riley: Riley is an A-line dress with soft pleating, a wide waistband, and a rounded V-neckline with wide straps. The A-line shape flatters many body types, and the wide straps provide comfort and support, making it a great choice for various figures.
- Nica: Nica is a junior bridesmaid dress with a scooped neckline, ruffle bodice, sash at waist, and A-line skirt with pockets. The sash at the waist highlights the natural waistline, so an accurate waist measurement is essential for a perfect fit.
- Audrey Platinum: Audrey Platinum is a strapless dress with a ruched A-line skirt, slit, and boning in the bodice for structure. The boning provides support, but a secure fit relies on accurate bust and upper bust measurements to prevent slipping.
