GuideTwo minutes and a soft tape
How to measure for a Lolita dress the size guide
The six measurements we cut from, how to take each one, the standard size chart, and what to do if you sit between sizes.
On this page
Before you start
- A soft measuring tape, in inches.
- Light, fitted clothes — and the bra you plan to wear with the dress.
- A friend if you can; measuring your own back and length is hard.
- Stand relaxed, feet together. Keep the tape level and snug, never tight.
The six measurements
- Bust (in)Around the fullest part of your chest, tape level all the way round.
- Waist (in)Around the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above the navel. One finger under the tape.
- Hips (in)Around the fullest part of your hips, about 20cm below the waist, feet together.
- Shoulder (in)Across your back from the tip of one shoulder bone to the other.
- Garment length (in)From the top of your shoulder down to where you want the hem.
- Your height (in)Standing straight, without shoes, against a wall.
Measure twice. Write it down once.
Standard size chart
Body measurements in inches. Pick the size whose bust fits you; if your waist or hips land in a different size, send your measurements instead.
| Size | Bust | Waist | Hips |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 32 | 25 | 35 |
| S | 34 | 27 | 37 |
| M | 36 | 29 | 39 |
| L | 38 | 31 | 41 |
| XL | 41 | 34 | 44 |
| 2XL | 44 | 37 | 47 |
| 3XL | 47 | 40 | 50 |
| 4XL | 50 | 43 | 53 |
| 5XL | 53 | 46 | 56 |
Between sizes, or outside them
Choose “My measurements” on any made-to-order design. We accept a bust from 20″ to 70″, cut the pattern from your numbers, and charge the same price as a standard size.
After you order, a person checks every measurement and messages you if anything looks unusual — nothing is cut until you confirm.
Questions, answered
Should I measure over clothes?
Measure over light, fitted clothes or underwear, and wear the bra you will wear with the dress. Thick layers add inches that the dress will not need.
Do I add ease for a comfortable fit?
No. Send your body measurements as they are; we add the right ease for each design when we draft the pattern.
What is garment length?
How long you want the piece, measured from the top of your shoulder down to where you want the hem. Your height helps us check it.
Keep reading
Plain answers to the questions we get asked most, written by the people who cut the dresses.
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Ready to have yours made?
Choose a design and set it to your size, fabric and colour — or describe the dress you have in mind and we will design it with you.