How do I take my own measurements?
This part is super simple! Once you've taken your own measurements you'll feel SO much more prepared to shop online. There are vintage dresses for most any shape and size! When you know your numbers you'll be able to buy dresses confidently and know what kind of fit to expect.
How to measure yourself for dresses:
Bust: Use a sewing measuring tape to measure the fullest part of your bust (with bra on!).
Waist: Measure the smallest part of your natural waist line. This will probably be about one inch above your belly button.
Hips: Stand with your feet close together! Measure the fullest part of your hips.
Add a little extra? Once you have your measurements add an extra inch if you want your clothes to be comfortable and loose fitting. I, personally, always add an extra inch to the bust but not the rest since I like a fitted waist. This part is up to you and will determine how you want your clothing to fit.
Can you explain the sizing on the Red Velvet Site?
On each of our listings you'll see the words "Measurements, double where appropriate." This means that the measurements are taken with garment laying on a flat surface, so you need to double the waist/hips/bust. You don't need to double length or inseams.Length: This is the length from the top of the shoulder to the hem for a dress, or from the top of the waist line to hem for a skirt. If you used a measuring tape you could see exactly how long this dress would fit on your body. The our models vary in height, so it's good to use the measurement if you're concerned about length. Probably not an issue on a mid length dress like the one above, but with shorter dresses it's always good to check if you're pretty tall!
Bust: This measurement is 'taken flat' this means that the dress (or shirt, or sweater) is laid on a table and measured across. This is a standard way to take measurements. You need to double all measurements that have a front & back (bust, waist & hips).
So, for the Bust double the measurement that is there. If the dress is made of jersey or polyester you'll know that there will be some extra stretch there. If the dress has darts (or a formed bust) you can assume it will fit an inch or two larger than the measurements. This is one reason why people love 1950s and 1960s dresses, they look amazing on curvy figures and ladies with a larger bust!
Waist: Double the measurements given. Keep in mind that you can wear a belt with many dresses if the waist is slightly too big to add shape and proportion (I wear a belt almost every day!). If a waist is elastic we stretch it to a comfortable size to take the measurement. This size can fit a slightly smaller or larger waist easily. If waist reads 'open' this means it's a 'house dress' style and the waist, hips and bust are all the same. It's a more roomy style that looks best worn with a belt!
Hips: This is the maximum allowance for hips (you'll double the number, again, of course). If the dress has fitted hips the measurements will be listed. You want to make sure you have enough extra room to walk and move! If the hips say 'open' or have a + symbol it means that they are extremely roomy and could fit pretty much any girl who could wear the other measurements.
All measurements on the Red Velvet website are given in inches! If you need centimeters, use a conversion calculator.
You'll also find an estimated size. These are helpful for quickly finding pieces that *may* fit you. Estimated sizes should be used as a guide only. Always refer to the exact measurements as well.
How do I find a dress that will work with my body type?
