Size Guide

Monaviro carries formal evening wear, and our representative gowns use letter sizes from S through 3XL. Because each dress is designed differently, the most reliable way to choose your size is to take your own body measurements and compare them to the specific size information shown on that product's page. This guide explains how to measure accurately and how to interpret what you find.

Body Measurements vs. Product Measurements

These two terms mean different things, and confusing them is the most common sizing mistake.

Body measurements are the dimensions of your own figure — your bust, natural waist, and hips. They describe you, not the garment.

Product or garment measurements describe the physical dimensions of the dress itself: how wide it is across the chest, how much room it leaves at the waist, how it sits at the hip. A dress with a bust measurement of 36 inches is not the same as a body with a 36-inch bust, because the garment may include ease, structure, or stretch that changes how it fits.

When a product page lists a size chart, check whether the numbers refer to body measurements or garment measurements. If it is not clear, that is a good question to ask us before ordering.

How to Measure for a Fitted Evening Gown

Formal gowns in our catalogue are typically tailored close to the body through the bust, waist, and hips. These are the three measurements that matter most when comparing yourself to a size chart.

Use a soft, flexible measuring tape. Keep it snug against your skin but not tight enough to compress or distort. Stand naturally with your arms relaxed at your sides. If possible, wear the type of undergarment you plan to wear with the dress.

Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape level and parallel to the floor across your back.
Natural waist: Find the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above the navel. Measure around this point without pulling the tape tight.
Hips: Measure around the widest part of your hips and seat, typically about 7–9 inches below your waist. Keep the tape flat and level all the way around.

Write down each number. You will use them to compare against the size chart on the specific product page you are considering.

Reading Sizing Information on a Product Page

Before selecting a size, look for the following on the product page:

A size chart with numbers — this tells you the body or garment measurements associated with each letter size.
A fit description — some of our gowns are described as slim fit, tailored, or figure-hugging. This tells you how the garment is designed to sit on the body.
Measurement notes — certain product pages mention that manual measurement may vary by 0.4–1.2 inches. This is a tolerance range, not a defect; it reflects the hand-measured nature of the data.
Stretch or structure details — if a gown mentions stretch fabric or a structured bodice with boning, that affects how forgiving or rigid the fit will be.

Not every product page will include all of these. Always rely on what is actually listed for the dress you want, rather than generalising from another item.

Choosing Between Two Sizes

There is no single rule that applies to every gown in our collection. A dress with stretch may accommodate a tighter size more comfortably than a structured corset bodice. A gown described as slim fit may run differently from one with a flowing skirt.

When you find yourself between two sizes, consider:

Which measurement (bust, waist, or hip) is closest to the upper limit of the smaller size.
Whether the product page describes stretch, ease, or a structured fit.
Whether you prefer a close, body-skimming look or a little more room for comfort.

If the product page does not provide enough detail to decide, the safest step is to ask us before ordering rather than guessing.

Still Unsure? Ask Before You Order

If you have taken your measurements and the product page information is not enough to make a confident choice, send us a message. The more specific you are, the more helpful our reply can be.

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