Why is Bridal Sizing Smaller than Street Sizing?
The Bridal Sizing Conundrum: Why Bridal Sizes Are Smaller Than Streetwear
Choosing the perfect wedding dress is a monumental moment for any bride-to-be. However, the process can quickly become overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding bridal sizing. Brides often find themselves perplexed by the fact that bridal sizes are typically smaller than their regular streetwear sizes. In this blog post, we delve into the reasons behind this sizing conundrum and offer insights into navigating the world of bridal fashion.
Understanding Bridal Sizing
One of the most significant differences between bridal sizing and streetwear sizing is the measurement standards used by designers and manufacturers. Bridal sizing is traditionally based on a different set of measurements compared to everyday clothing. While streetwear sizing adheres more closely to standardized sizing charts, bridal sizing tends to be more arbitrary and can vary significantly between designers.
Factors Contributing to Smaller Sizing
Several factors contribute to the smaller sizing of bridal gowns compared to streetwear. Firstly, many bridal designers adhere to traditional sizing standards that were established decades ago. These standards often reflect older body shapes and proportions, which may not align with modern sizing expectations. Additionally, bridal gowns are often constructed with intricate detailing, such as boning and corsetry, which can affect how the garment fits and feels on the body.
Moreover, bridal fashion is often influenced by the desire for a snug and form-fitting silhouette, which may lead designers to create dresses with smaller measurements to achieve this aesthetic. Brides are also encouraged to order dresses that fit their current measurements rather than sizing up, as alterations are typically part of the standard bridal fitting process.
Navigating Bridal Sizing
Given the discrepancies between bridal sizing and streetwear sizing, it's essential for brides to approach the shopping process with an open mind and realistic expectations. Here are some tips for navigating bridal sizing:
- Get Professionally Measured: Visit a bridal salon or boutique to get professionally measured by a consultant. This will give you a better understanding of your measurements and help guide you in selecting the appropriate size.
- Ignore the Numbers: Try not to fixate on the numerical size of the dress. Focus instead on how the dress fits and flatters your body shape. Remember that every designer has their own sizing chart, so you may wear a different size in different brands.
- Trust the Experts: Lean on the expertise of bridal consultants and seamstresses. They have extensive experience working with bridal gowns and can offer valuable advice on sizing, alterations, and customizations.
- Plan for Alterations: Budget for alterations in your wedding dress budget. Alterations are almost always necessary to achieve the perfect fit, regardless of the size you order.
While the disconnect between bridal sizing and streetwear sizing can be frustrating for brides, understanding the reasons behind this phenomenon can help alleviate some of the confusion. By approaching the shopping process with realistic expectations and seeking guidance from knowledgeable professionals, brides can navigate bridal sizing with confidence and find the wedding dress of their dreams. Remember, it's not about the number on the label but how the dress makes you feel on your special day.
