Finding the perfect dress fit shouldn't be a guessing game. Whether you're browsing mini dresses for a summer outing or searching for an elegant maxi dress for a special occasion, knowing how to measure yourself correctly — and understanding how different dress styles fit different body types — makes all the difference.
At Femchic, we want every woman to feel confident and beautiful in what she wears. Here's our complete guide to help you find your ideal dress size every time.
Step 1: Take Your Measurements
Before purchasing any dress online, take these three key measurements (in inches):
- Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape parallel to the ground.
- Waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your torso, usually about 1 inch above your belly button.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, about 7–9 inches below your natural waist.
Pro tip: Always measure in fitted clothing or underwear for the most accurate results. Compare your measurements to the size chart on each product page.
Step 2: Understand Your Body Type
- Hourglass (bust and hips roughly equal, defined waist): Best styles — wrap dresses, bodycon dresses, belted maxi dresses.
- Pear Shape (hips wider than bust): Best styles — A-line dresses, fit-and-flare, off-shoulder mini dresses.
- Apple Shape (fuller midsection): Best styles — empire waist dresses, V-neck styles, flowy maxi dresses with ruching.
- Rectangle (similar bust, waist, and hips): Best styles — ruffled or tiered mini dresses, wrap dresses, peplum styles.
- Inverted Triangle (broader shoulders, narrower hips): Best styles — A-line dresses, fit-and-flare, maxi dresses with volume at the bottom.
Step 3: Understand Dress Lengths
- Mini Dress: Hemline above the knee — perfect for casual outings, summer days, and beach trips.
- Midi Dress: Falls between the knee and ankle — ideal for work, brunch, and semi-formal events.
- Maxi Dress: Floor or ankle length — perfect for evening events, weddings, or resort wear.
- Sun Dress: Sleeveless with a light, flowy fabric — perfect for warm weather and outdoor occasions.
Step 4: Consider Fabric & Stretch
- Stretch fabrics (jersey, lycra blends): More forgiving — usually true to size. Great for bodycon styles.
- Woven fabrics (chiffon, linen, cotton): Less stretch — size up if between sizes.
- Knit fabrics: Comfortable and accommodating, especially for relaxed-fit styles.
Step 5: When In Doubt, Size Up
If you find yourself between two sizes, we recommend sizing up — especially for woven or non-stretch dresses. A slightly looser fit is much easier to have tailored than a dress that's too tight.
All Femchic dresses include a detailed size chart on each product page. Still unsure? Email us at support@femchic.shop and we'll help you choose the right size.
Shop Your Perfect Fit
Browse our collection of mini dresses, sun dresses, and maxi dresses — all available with free shipping across the United States. Visit femchic.shop to find your perfect style today.