Wedding dress size from measurements.

Worked example

Bust 36 in, waist 28 in and hips 38 in match sizes 8, 6 and 6 on the chart. The largest decides, so the dress size is size 8. If the hips were 38 and the bust 32.5, the hips would set size 6 and the dress would be taken in at the top.

How it works

The size comes from the body measurements in Jovani's published women's size chart (US 0 to 24, even sizes). The calculator finds the size for bust, waist and hips and uses the largest.

No extra offset is added: this dress chart already runs larger than most everyday ready-to-wear. Bridal designers each publish their own chart, so your size can differ by brand. Order by the largest measurement and have the dress altered smaller, because fabric is easier to take in than let out.

Every designer publishes a chart in inches. Always compare your measurements to that chart first and use this calculator as a sanity check. Allow time for fittings, and measure again close to the date.

Sources and basis (checked 2026-10-05):

• Body measurements: Jovani women's size chart, jovani.com/size-chart (US 0 to 24). Checked 2026-10-05.
• Designers' own size charts take precedence over this one.

FAQ

Why are wedding dress sizes bigger than my normal size?

Bridal and formal designers cut to their own charts, which often run larger than everyday ready-to-wear. On the Jovani chart used here, size 14 is a 40 in bust, 33.5 in waist and 43.5 in hip.

Which measurement should I order by?

The largest of bust, waist and hips. A dress can be taken in but is hard to let out.

Should I order a smaller size if I plan to lose weight?

No. Order for your current measurements and let the alterations seamstress adjust close to the date.

How long before the wedding should I order?

Dresses often take several months to make, then need fittings. Check the designer's lead time.

Do all brands follow this rule?

No. Each designer has its own chart. This calculator is a starting point only.