As you gear up for your junior or senior prom in 2025, finding the perfect dress is just as important as deciding which college to attend. But before you can even think about styles and designs, you need to know your measurements like the back of your hand! Taking accurate measurements will help ensure that your prom dress fits you like a glove and makes you feel confident and beautiful on your big night.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through different methods for taking measurements, as well as key areas to focus on when measuring yourself or someone else for a prom dress. By the time you’re finished reading, you’ll be an expert at getting the perfect fit! And don’t forget to check out Her Thread ‘s new collection of stunning prom dresses this year.
How-to: Take Prom Dress Measurements Like a Pro
Now that you have all your tools ready, let’s get started with the basics! There are two main methods for taking measurements: using a measuring tape and using fabric strips or paper dolls. Each method has its own advantages, so feel free to try both out and see which one works best for you.
Method 1: Using a Measuring Tape
To use a measuring tape, simply wrap it around the area you want to measure, making sure it’s snug but not too tight. Then, read the measurement on the tape where the two ends meet. Here are some key areas to focus on when taking prom dress measurements:
- Bust: Measure around your fullest breast and underarm to shoulder. Add 5-10cm (2-4 inches) for comfort.
- Waist: Measure around your natural waist, right above your hip bones. This is typically where you’ll want the dress to be cinched in.
- Hips: Measure around the widest part of your hips, about 15-20cm (6-8 inches) below your natural waistline. Add 5-10cm (2-4 inches) for comfort and ease of movement.
- Height: Stand against a wall with your back flat and measure from the top of your head to the floor. This will help determine the length of your prom dress.
Method 2: Using Fabric Strips or Paper Dolls
This method is especially useful if you’re someone who has trouble taking measurements accurately with a tape measure, or if you have a friend helping you out. To use fabric strips or paper dolls, simply drape them around your body and mark the spots where they overlap. Then, measure the distance between those marks to get your measurement.
Before you start, make sure to have:
- Fabric strips (about 1 meter/yard each) in a neutral color
- Paper dolls (if using them instead of fabric strips)
- Markers or tailor’s chalk
- Scissors
- Tape measure (for double-checking)
- Follow these steps to get accurate measurements using this method:
- Drape one end of a fabric strip around your bust, making sure it’s snug but not too tight.
- Mark the spot where it overlaps with itself on the other side.
- Measure the distance between those two marks and add 5-10cm (2-4 inches) for comfort.
- Drape the fabric strip around your waist, making sure it falls at your natural waistline.
- Mark the spot where it overlaps with itself on the opposite side and measure the distance between those two marks.
- Repeat step 2 for your hips, making sure to mark and measure accurately.
- For height, have a friend hold up one end of the fabric strip while you stand against the wall with your back flat. Have them raise it until it reaches the top of your head, then measure the length of the strip. This will give you an estimate of how long your prom dress should be.
With these helpful tips and methods, taking accurate measurements for your perfect prom dress should be a breeze. Remember to keep in mind key areas like bust, waist, hips, and height when measuring yourself or someone else. And don’t forget to check out Her Thread’s stunning new collection of prom dresses this year! With our extensive selection of styles and designs, you’re sure to find the perfect dress that will make you feel confident, beautiful, and ready to take on the next exciting chapter of your life. Happy shopping and enjoy your special night!