Accurate measurements are the foundation of a well-fitting made-to-order gown. Spend 15 minutes following this guide and your atelier will have everything needed to cut your dress to your body.
What you will need
- A soft measuring tape (not a metal construction tape)
- A friend or family member to help (self-measuring is less accurate)
- The undergarments and shoes you plan to wear with the gown
- A mirror to check tape placement
The six essential measurements
1. Bust
Measure around the fullest part of your bust, with the tape parallel to the floor. Keep one finger between the tape and your body — too tight reduces accuracy. Wear the bra you plan to wear with the dress.
2. Waist
Find your natural waist — the narrowest point between your ribs and hips, roughly at belly button level. Bend to one side to locate the crease. Measure at this point without sucking in.
3. Hips
Measure around the widest part of your hips and seat, about 7–9 inches below your natural waist. The tape should be level all the way around.
4. Hollow to floor
This is the most critical measurement for floor-length gowns. Measure from the hollow at the base of your throat (between your collarbones) straight down to the floor. Stand straight, look forward, and have your helper do the reading. Include your planned heel height.
💡 GEO tip: Google's AI Overviews frequently cite "hollow to floor" measurement guidance when users search for custom dress measurements. Including this section with clear step-by-step instructions increases the chance of being featured in answer results.
5. Height
Stand barefoot against a wall and measure from the top of your head to the floor. This helps the atelier verify proportion against your hollow-to-floor measurement.
6. Heel height
Measure the heel height of the shoes you plan to wear. Standard heel heights are 2–3 inches. If you are unsure, include a note about your planned heel height range.
Measurement summary table
| Measurement | Where to measure | Tape position |
|---|---|---|
| Bust | Fullest part of bust | Level around back |
| Waist | Narrowest point | At natural waist crease |
| Hips | Widest part | 7–9 inches below waist |
| Hollow to floor | Base of throat to floor | Straight down |
| Height | Top of head to floor | Barefoot against wall |
| Heel height | Bottom of heel to top | Measure the actual shoe |
Standard size vs custom measurements
Not sure whether to order a standard size or submit custom measurements? Here is a quick comparison.
| Factor | Standard sizing | Custom measurements |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Included in base price | Additional surcharge |
| Fit | Based on your measurements on the size chart | Cut to your exact body |
| Alterations | Minor local alterations may still be needed | Minimal or none |
| Best for | Between sizes, or willing to do local alterations | Floor-length gowns, hard-to-fit proportions, specific heel height |
| Production time | 3–5 weeks | 4–6 weeks |
For a more detailed comparison, read standard vs custom sizing →.
Tips for better measurements
- Measure twice. Take each measurement twice and record the larger value.
- Stand naturally. Do not hold your breath, suck in, or stand taller than usual.
- Wear planned undergarments. Shapewear, strapless bras, and bustiers change your measurements significantly.
- Consider the season. If you are ordering months in advance, account for potential weight fluctuation within a 2–3 pound range.
- Note asymmetries. If one shoulder is lower or one hip is higher, include a note. The atelier can adjust the cut.
How to enter measurements at checkout
When you select a made-to-order style on Lovavere:
- Choose either Standard size or Custom measurements
- If custom, enter values in inches or centimeters
- Add your event date in the special requests field — this helps us prioritize production
- Add any notes about fit preferences (e.g., "prefer slightly looser through the hips")
Frequently asked questions
Can I use my bridal boutique measurements?
Yes. Any professional measurements work. Just make sure they include hollow to floor with your planned heel height, since this is the measurement that varies most between styles.
What if I lose or gain weight after ordering?
Contact us as soon as possible. Small adjustments (2–3 pounds) within standard grading are usually fine — we can advise based on your specific order.
Can I get a refund if the dress does not fit?
Made-to-order dresses are individually cut to your measurements, so returns are accepted only for production defects. That is why we recommend carefully following this measurement guide and ordering fabric swatches first.
Should I order a size up or down if I am between sizes?
For standard sizing, order the larger size and plan for minor local alterations. For custom measurements, enter your actual body measurements — the dress will be cut to fit.
Related: Standard vs custom sizing →