Finding a midi dress that fits perfectly can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, especially when shopping online. Sizing varies wildly between brands, and the midi length adds an extra consideration since it should hit at just the right point on your leg. Whether you're petite, tall, or shopping in plus sizes, understanding how to measure yourself and interpret size charts will dramatically improve your shopping success rate.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk through the measurement process, explain how to navigate size charts, and offer specific advice for different body proportions. With this knowledge, you'll be able to shop confidently and find midi dresses that truly fit.
Taking Accurate Measurements
Before shopping for any dress, you need to know your current measurements. Bodies change, so measure yourself every few months for the most accurate results.
What You'll Need
- A flexible measuring tape (fabric tape, not metal)
- A mirror or a friend to help
- Comfortable, fitted clothing (or measure over underwear)
- A pen and paper to record measurements
Essential Measurements
- Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape parallel to the floor. Don't pull too tight—you should be able to breathe normally.
- Waist: Find your natural waist by bending to one side; the crease indicates where to measure. This is usually the narrowest part of your torso, typically about 2-3cm above your belly button.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips and bottom, usually about 20-23cm below your waist.
- Height: Stand straight against a wall without shoes and measure from floor to the top of your head.
Keep the measuring tape snug but not tight. You should be able to fit one finger between the tape and your body. Measure in front of a mirror to ensure the tape is straight and parallel to the floor.
Understanding Australian Size Charts
Australian sizes differ from US, UK, and European sizing. Here's a general guide, though always check the specific brand's size chart:
Standard Australian Women's Sizing
- AU 6 (XS): Bust 80cm, Waist 60cm, Hips 86cm
- AU 8 (S): Bust 84cm, Waist 64cm, Hips 90cm
- AU 10 (S/M): Bust 88cm, Waist 68cm, Hips 94cm
- AU 12 (M): Bust 92cm, Waist 72cm, Hips 98cm
- AU 14 (M/L): Bust 96cm, Waist 76cm, Hips 102cm
- AU 16 (L): Bust 100cm, Waist 80cm, Hips 106cm
- AU 18 (XL): Bust 106cm, Waist 86cm, Hips 112cm
- AU 20 (XXL): Bust 112cm, Waist 92cm, Hips 118cm
- AU 22 (XXXL): Bust 118cm, Waist 98cm, Hips 124cm
Sizing for Different Height Categories
Petite Sizing (Under 160cm)
Petite women often struggle with midi dresses that are proportioned for taller figures. The hemline may hit awkwardly low, and waistlines might fall in the wrong place.
- Look for brands offering petite ranges—these are proportioned for shorter torsos and shorter inseams
- Choose midi dresses that hit just below the knee rather than mid-calf
- Empire waists can help, as they hit higher and create the illusion of length
- Vertical patterns and V-necklines elongate the body
- Budget for alterations—hemming a standard midi can create a perfect petite fit
Tall Sizing (Over 175cm)
Tall women face the opposite challenge: midi dresses may hit too short, appearing as regular-length dresses rather than true midis.
- Seek out tall or long-length options from brands that offer them
- Maxi dresses from standard lines may actually hit at midi length on you
- Check the garment length measurement, not just the size, to ensure adequate length
- Dropped waistlines may actually hit at your natural waist
- Longer sleeves in three-quarter or long options will fit better than short sleeves
The most important measurement for midi dresses is often overlooked: total dress length. Check this against your height and desired hemline placement to ensure the "midi" will actually hit at a flattering point on your leg.
Plus Size Considerations
Plus-size midi dresses should fit just as beautifully as any other size. Look for these features:
What to Look For
- Stretch fabrics: A small percentage of elastane (2-5%) provides comfort and movement
- Strategic seaming: Princess seams and waist definition create shape
- Wrap styles: Adjustable wrap closures accommodate different proportions
- Quality construction: Properly sized armholes, adequate bust darts, and secure closures
- Appropriate fabric weight: Medium-weight fabrics that skim rather than cling
Fit Points to Check
- Bust darts should point toward the fullest part of the bust
- Armholes shouldn't pull or gape
- The waistline (if defined) should sit at your actual waist
- Fabric should skim over the stomach and hips without pulling
- You should be able to sit and move comfortably
When Your Measurements Fall Between Sizes
Many women don't fit neatly into one size. Here's how to handle common scenarios:
Different Sizes for Different Measurements
- Larger bust, smaller waist/hips: Size for your bust and have the waist taken in if needed. It's easier to alter excess fabric than to add more.
- Larger hips, smaller bust/waist: Size for your hips in fitted styles. A-line dresses may work in the smaller size since they don't hug the hips.
- Between two sizes: Consider the fabric. Stretchy fabrics may work in the smaller size; structured fabrics may need the larger size.
Don't overlook tailoring as a solution. A skilled tailor can adjust hemlines, take in waists, and perfect fit for relatively modest cost. A well-tailored size larger often looks better than a too-tight correct size.
Understanding Fit Descriptions
Brands use various terms to describe how a garment fits:
- Slim fit: Close to the body with minimal ease
- Regular fit: Standard ease for comfortable movement
- Relaxed fit: Extra room throughout; may need to size down
- Oversized: Intentionally loose; consider sizing down one or two sizes
- True to size: Matches standard size charts
- Runs small/large: Size up or down accordingly
Reading Customer Reviews
When shopping online, customer reviews are invaluable for sizing insights:
- Look for reviews from people with similar measurements to yours
- Note whether multiple reviewers mention sizing up or down
- Pay attention to comments about specific fit issues (tight arms, long torso, etc.)
- Check for photos from real customers when available
- Consider the reviewer's body type when weighing their advice
The Fit Test at Home
When your midi dress arrives, conduct a thorough fit assessment:
- Stand test: Check overall fit in a full-length mirror
- Sit test: Sit down—the dress should still be comfortable and not ride up excessively
- Arm test: Raise your arms above your head; the dress shouldn't pull dramatically
- Walk test: Take several steps and check that the hemline moves naturally
- Bend test: Bend forward slightly; ensure coverage remains appropriate
A dress that fits well is one you'll reach for again and again. Don't settle for "good enough"—either find the right size, have it altered, or return it. Life is too short for uncomfortable clothes.
Ready to shop with confidence? Use your measurements alongside our product listings to find midi dresses that will fit beautifully. Each listing includes size information to help you choose correctly.