You need three measurements:
Bust, Waist, and Hips

Height if you are tall or a child

 How to Measure:

Fitting for formal wear is totally different from buying street clothes. You must measure your self for the best fit. Many manufactures have their own size charts, and some run small where others are true or large to size. It's important to remember that almost all gowns are non-returnable for any reason other than defects. Please be aware that sizing is not an exact science and alterations by an experienced seamstress will almost always be necessary for a proper fit.

Remember also, gowns are not custom-made; therefore you need to order to fit the largest part of the body and take it in where it's too large.  If a dress is too small it could be a real problem; if it is too large a seamstress can usually alter it to fit.   Sizes usually can not be changed once the order has been placed.  The final choice for size is yours. The information below is intended to help you make the best choice.

Follow the instructions below to ensure a good fit in your formal attire.

BUST: Measure the fullest part of your bust, over your breasts. Wear the bra or bra style you plan to wear with the gown. Record measurement. The type of bra worn, or whether one is worn at all, can make a difference.  Do NOT use your bra size (an a-cup is much different from a d-cup).

WAIST: Measure the smallest part. Generally about 1-3 inches above your navel. Gowns run in 1-1.5 inch increments, so you're best measurement would be on skin and not over clothing. Holding stomach in would be a mistake, as would a skin-tight measurement.   Leave a finger's width under the tape so it can move

In the store we use a nursery rhyme "I'm a little Tea Cup" When singing this song you move from side to side with your hands on your sides. The breaking point when you do this is your natural waist line. This is the place to measure. Remember Side to Side find the center break.

HIPS: Measure your hips around the fullest part of your buttocks.

HEIGHT: Your height is NOT taken from the top of the head, but from the neck to the floor with the shoe heel you plan to wear. Most gowns run at 59-60 inches hollow to hem. (neck to floor). This measurement is very important for children's gowns and adults over 5'8" may require an "extra length" option from the manufacturer.

Tip: When choosing your size, take all measurements into consideration. If your bust is a size 4 and your waist is a size 8 or 10, and your hips are a size 6, you should order the 10. This generally means that your waist is more straight. You may also want to double check that you measured the smallest part of your waist as well. Remember the "I'm a little Tea Cup moves.  You might be surprised that you are actually an 8.