Olive Outline Feeding Dress

Measuring for maternity dresses is essential to ensure a comfortable fit as your body changes during pregnancy. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get accurate measurements:

What You’ll Need:

• A soft measuring tape
• A mirror (or a helper for better accuracy)
• Comfortable, fitted clothing or undergarments

Key Measurements for Maternity Dresses

1. Bust

• How to Measure:
  Wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping it level across your back.
• Tips:
  Wear a well-fitting bra (preferably one you’ll wear with the dress) to get an accurate measurement.

2. Underbust (Optional for Dresses with Empire Waistlines)

• How to Measure:
  Measure directly under your bust where the band of your bra sits.
• Why It Matters:
  This helps ensure a comfortable fit for dresses with fitted tops or empire waistlines.

3. Waist

• How to Measure
  For maternity measurements, measure around the widest part of your belly, typically at your belly button or wherever your bump is largest.
• Tips:
  Stand naturally and avoid pulling the tape too tight to allow for comfort and growth.

4. Hips

• How to Measure:
  Measure around the fullest part of your hips and bottom, usually about 7–9 inches below your natural waist.
• Tips:
  Keep your feet together while measuring for an accurate fit.

5. Shoulder to Hem (Dress Length)

• How to Measure:
  Start at the top of your shoulder near the base of your neck and measure down to your desired dress length (e.g., knee, midi, or maxi).
• Tips:
  Consider your bump when determining the ideal length—dresses may appear shorter as your belly grows.

6. Shoulder Width (Optional)

• How to Measure:
  Measure across the back from one shoulder tip to the other.
• Why It Matters:
  This ensures a good fit for dresses with structured tops or sleeves.

Additional Tips for Measuring Maternity Dresses

• Account for Growth: Choose dresses with stretchable fabrics or adjustable features like ties or elastic bands.
• Size Guides: Check the sizing chart of the maternity brand you’re buying from, as sizes may vary between brands.
• Regular Updates: Recheck your measurements every 4–6 weeks during pregnancy to account for changes.
• Comfort is Key: Focus on measurements that prioritize ease of movement and comfort over exact fits.

Special Considerations for Different Styles

• Flowy Dresses: Prioritize bust and shoulder measurements, as the rest of the dress typically flows over the belly.
• Fitted Dresses: Ensure both waist and hip measurements are accurate to avoid tightness.
• Empire Waist Dresses: Focus on underbust and bust measurements for the best fit.