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How To Measure Yourself For The Perfect Dress Fit

At One Honey, we want every girl to feel confident knowing her gown will fit beautifully.

Whether you are shopping online or visiting our Gold Coast showroom, this step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to measure your bust, waist and hips in inches to help you select the best size. Please measure yourself before ordering, even if you believe you already know your size.

Because formal gowns vary between designers, fabrics and construction styles, measuring yourself correctly is the most reliable way to find your perfect fit.

To make shopping easier, a full size guide is always saved as the last image on every product page. If one is not there, please contact us prior to ordering for fast assistance. 

Why Measuring Matters

Formal gowns do not fit the same across every designer.

At One Honey, our collections include gowns based on Australian, American and European sizing, and each designer may fit slightly differently depending on the fabric, structure and cut of the gown.

This means the size you have worn in a previous dress may not be your size in another style.

The most accurate way to select your size is by using your actual body measurements and comparing them with the size guide provided on the product page.

This step is especially important for made-to-order gowns, as leaving sizing until the last minute can reduce the time available for adjustments if a size change is needed.

Before You Measure

For the most accurate measurements, please follow these simple guidelines.

• Stand straight in a relaxed position
• Keep your arms resting naturally by your side
• Stand with your legs and feet together
• Measure on bare feet (no heels)
• Keep the measuring tape level all the way around your body
• The tape should be snug but not tight
• Record all measurements in INCHES

It is best to have someone else help measure you for accuracy if possible.

Please only measure the three measurements we request:

Bust – Waist – Hips

Additional measurements such as upper hip are not required unless specifically requested by our team.

What You'll Need

Before measuring, please have the following ready:

• A soft measuring tape
• A pen or phone to record your measurements
• Someone to help measure you if possible
• The undergarments you plan to wear with your gown (if known)

If you do not already have a measuring tape, one can usually be purchased from most supermarkets, discount stores, fabric stores or sewing supply stores.

Step 1: Bust

Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping your arms relaxed by your side.

Make sure the tape runs evenly across your back and sits comfortably around the fullest part of your chest.

The measuring tape should feel snug but not tight.

Many formal gowns include built-in cups or structure, and cups can also be added later by an experienced alterations specialist if needed.

For best accuracy, measure while wearing the bra or undergarments you plan to wear with your gown, if applicable.

STEP 2: WAIST

Measure around the smallest part of your natural waist.

This is typically the narrowest part of your torso and is often located just above the belly button.

Keep the tape measure straight and level around your body, ensuring it remains comfortable without pulling too tight.

Your waist measurement helps determine how the gown will fit through the bodice and midsection.

STEP 3: HIPS

Measure around the fullest part of your hips and bottom.

This is usually located approximately 8 inches below your natural waist, although it can vary slightly depending on body shape.

Stand with your legs together and ensure the measuring tape stays level all the way around.

The hip measurement is important for gowns that fit closely through the lower body or mermaid style silhouettes.

Your Final Measurements

Write your measurements down in the following order:

Bust – Waist – Hips

Then compare these numbers with the size guide provided on the product page for the designer size chart listed on each product page, it is usually saved as the last image. Formal dress sizing often differs from everyday clothing sizes.

If you are between sizes, it is generally recommended to choose the larger size, as it is easier for an alterations specialist to take a gown in rather than let it out.

Important Sizing Notes

Please keep the following in mind when selecting your size.

• Do not rely on a dress size you have worn previously
• Different designers and fabrics can fit very differently
• Our gowns may follow Australian, US or European sizing depending on the designer
• Always use your body measurements and the product size guide to select your size

For the best accuracy, please ensure your measurements are recent, as body measurements can change over time.

Dress Length Information

Most of our gowns are produced in a standard factory length, designed to accommodate a range of heights and allow for custom hemming if needed.

Because many customers will wear heels on their formal night, gowns are intentionally made longer so the length can be tailored perfectly for your height and shoe choice.

At this stage, the factory is unable to customise gown length during production.

If your dress requires shortening once it arrives, this can easily be completed by an experienced alterations specialist. When hemming your gown, any leftover fabric can often be repurposed — for example, to create a matching pocket square, tie detail, or a special keepsake to remember your formal night.

After placing your order, you will receive an information pack with helpful guidance on alterations, dress care, and preparing your gown for your event.

NEED HELP CHOOSING YOUR SIZE?

If you have taken your measurements and would like guidance selecting your size, our team is here to help.

Simply send us:

• Your Bust – Waist – Hips measurements
• The name of the gown you are interested in
• Your event date and location

Our team will review your measurements and help guide you toward the best size before placing your order.

Please ensure your measurements are recent and recorded in inches.

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Now You’re Ready To Find Your Dream Gown

Still have questions? We’re here to help. Contact us anytime and let One Honey guide you to the perfect fit.