Pay close attention to the size chart.
Haute Couture gowns run smaller than regular ready-to-wear gowns. Let's face it, few of us are the perfect model size, which means alterations that may be time-consuming are a necessary part of purchasing any dress if you want it to look perfect on you. With any dress, we suggest paying close attention to the size chart listed with each dress. The size chart is an accurate measurement of the dress give or take 1/2".

To find your waist, one easy way is to put your hands on your hips. They will normally land on the smallest portion of your waist.