Wedding Dress Sizes Explained: What Brides Need to Know

Choosing your wedding dress should feel exciting, empowering, and joyful - not confusing or intimidating. One of the most common surprises brides experience when dress shopping is discovering that wedding dress sizes are very different from high street clothing sizes. 

In this guide, we explain how bridal sizing works, why the numbers can feel unfamiliar, and what truly matters when finding your dream wedding dress. 

Are Wedding Dress Sizes Different to Normal Clothes? 

In short, yes, and this often catches brides off guard. Each bridal designer will have their own unique sizing chart, and measurements will vary between styles. Wedding dress sizes can come up to 4 times smaller than your typical UK high street size. For example, a bride who usually wears a UK 10 might order a bridal size 14 - and this is completely normal.  

The most important thing to remember is that bridal sizing is just a number, not a reflection of your body. 

Why Wedding Dresses Are Ordered Larger (Not Smaller) 

A wedding dress can always be taken in, but it often can’t be let out. When alterations are expected, a larger size is always better. 

Ordering a dress too small risks: 

• Compromising the design 

• Limited or impossible alterations 

• Added stress close to your wedding day 

Ordering slightly larger allows your seamstress to sculpt the dress to your body, creating a seamless, made-for-you finish every bride dreams of. 

How Bridal Boutiques Determine Your Dress Size 

When you visit a bridal boutique like Veil & Bloom, your stylist will take a few key measurements, typically measuring the bust, waist and hips. These measurements are then matched to the designer’s specific size chart.

In most cases, the dress is ordered to fit your largest measurement, with alterations later to perfect the fit. This is to ensure the dress fits comfortably and that alterations aren’t forced which can compromise the quality of the dress. 

What Sizes Do Wedding Dresses Come In? 

Most bridal designers offer dresses in a wide size range, often from UK 6–30+, though availability varies by brand. At Veil & Bloom, we have carefully selected designers who prioritise inclusive sizing with dresses that celebrate your shape. We also stock sample gowns in a variety of sizes so brides can better envision how their dress will look and feel. 

Trying On Dresses When They’re Not Your Exact Size 

It’s very common to try on dresses that don’t fit perfectly in-store. Bridal samples are designed for trying, not perfection. Your stylist may clip the dress to show shape and demonstrate the fit. Our expert stylists are on-hand to talk you through how alterations will refine the final look, and help you see beyond the sample so you can confidently visualise your finished gown. 

Bridal Alterations: The Final Step to the Perfect Fit 

Almost every wedding dress requires some level of alteration, even when ordered to size. 

Common alterations include: 

• Taking in the waist or bodice 

• Shortening the hem 

• Adjusting straps or sleeves 

• Adding bust support 

Alterations are a normal and expected part of the process and should be factored into your budget and timeline. 

Body Confidence & Bridal Sizing 

One of the most important things we share with our brides is this: Your wedding dress is meant to fit you - not the other way around. 

Bridal sizing can feel emotional, especially if the number on the label is higher than expected. But that number is never seen, never shared, and never remembered. What is remembered is how confident, radiant, and comfortable you feel on your wedding day. At Veil & Bloom, we create a calm, supportive, judgement-free space where every bride is celebrated exactly as they are. 

Wedding Dress Shopping in South Wales? 

If you’re searching for a modern bridal boutique in South Wales, we’d love to welcome you. At Veil & Bloom, we offer expert and honest styling advice in a relaxed boutique. Your dress journey should feel just as special as the day itself. 

Ready to Find Your Dress? 

Book your bridal appointment at Veil & Bloom and let us guide you every step of the way - from sizing and styling to that unforgettable “yes to the dress” moment.