How should a formal dress fit?Updated a month ago

Welcome to your complete Mac Duggal fit guide. 

Finding the right fit ensures your Mac Duggal gown looks and feels exactly as it should — elegant, comfortable, and made just for you. This guide will help you understand how your dress should fit across key areas of the body, and how each silhouette is designed to flatter your shape. 

General Fit Guidelines

Bust 

• Should feel secure and smooth — never tight or constrictive. 
• Boning or built-in cups should lay flat with no gaping or bulging. 
• For strapless or off-the-shoulder styles, the neckline should stay in place when you move your arms. 

Tip: If you’re between sizes, size up for comfort and have the bust tailored for a 
custom fit.

Waist 

• Should define your natural waist without digging in. 
• You should be able to sit comfortably while maintaining shape. 

Tip: The waist should hug, not squeeze — tailoring can fine-tune the fit perfectly. 

Hips 

• Fabric should gently skim your hips — not pull or bunch. 
• You should be able to move freely without strain. 
• Embellished dresses have little give and should have room for you to sit comfortably to avoid stress at the seams or friction with beading. 

Tip: For fitted styles, test your range of motion — you should be able to sit comfortably and take a full step easily. 

Length 

• The hem should graze the floor when wearing your intended heels. 
• For shorter styles, hemlines should fall evenly and allow comfortable movement. 

Tip: Always try on your dress with your event shoes before making length adjustments. 

Shoulders & Straps 

• Shoulder seams should sit at the edge of your shoulders — not drooping or pulling. 
• Straps should stay in place without slipping or digging. 

Tip: Minor strap or sleeve adjustments can make a dramatic difference in fit and comfort. 

Overall Fit 

• A well-fitted gown should feel supportive, not restrictive. 
• Zippers should glide smoothly without strain. That said, you may require another person to help you zip some embellished dresses or those made from heavy fabrics. 
• The dress should move with you — comfort and confidence are the true indicators of a perfect fit.
• Wearing the wrong size dress can stress the dress outside of normal wear and tear. For the  longevity of your garment it’s better to buy the larger size and have it altered.

Happy Shopping!