Having very specific measurements will help you find your size using a standard sizing chart. The only way to convert measurements into actual dress sizes is to use a conversion chart. Women’s dress sizes are listed at numbers beginning at 0 and going up from there…which is super confusing. Once you have your clothing size measurements, you can use this info to match the numbers to dress size charts. If you measure tightly, your dress will end up being too small. Record measurements to the tenth of the inch. Keep the line straight, even as you go across your backside in the rear, to get an accurate hip measurement. Go straight around the body at this area. Take the hip measurement, measure at the widest part of the hip. Measure around the thinnest part of your waist, typically two inches above the belly button, just below the bottom ribs. To get a waist measurement, you want to measure your natural waistline. Cup size (the letter) usually isn’t a factor when it comes to picking out a dress. This bust measurement corresponds to the band size of your bra size (the number).

Take this body measurement while wearing no bra or while wearing a close-fitting, non-padded bra. To take the bust measurement, take the tape measure straight across the chest just below the armpits and around your back, encircling the chest.

Use good posture by standing with your shoulders back and your head lifted up with a straight neck. Because while these three measurements may sound pretty straightforward, many people don’t know how to get these correct measurements. The problem that many women have in finding the right size is in taking the right measurements. Dress sizes are determined by three main measurements: bust, waist and hips.

Seven Dress Sizes by Jude Johnson