Size Guide

Finding the right size in a formal gown or evening set can feel overwhelming, especially when every silhouette fits differently. This guide walks you through how sizes are presented across Kivaretti, how to take accurate body measurements, and what to look for on individual product pages so you can choose with confidence.

How Sizes Are Listed

Across the evening and formal wear in this collection, sizes are shown as letter sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, and 3XL. Each product page includes a size chart listing bust, waist, and hip measurements in inches. Because fit varies from one design to another, always check the specific chart on the product you are considering rather than assuming one size corresponds to the same measurements across every item.

Body Measurements vs. Garment Measurements

Before you compare your numbers to a size chart, it helps to understand what you are looking at:

  • Body measurements describe the actual circumference of your bust, waist, and hips. They tell you where you fall on the chart.
  • Garment (finished product) measurements describe the physical dimensions of the item itself. A garment may be cut with ease or be intentionally close-fitting, so its numbers will not always match your body numbers directly.

If a product page does not explicitly label its chart as one or the other, look for fit notes such as "slim fit," "regular fit," or "body-skimming" to help you interpret how the garment will sit on your frame.

Taking Your Measurements

Use a soft, flexible measuring tape. Keep it snug against your skin without pulling tight, and stand in a natural, relaxed posture. Wear the undergarments you plan to pair with the outfit.

Bust

Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest, typically across the nipple line. Make sure the tape is level all the way around and does not dip at the back.

Waist

Find your natural waist—the narrowest point of your torso, usually just above the navel. Measure around this point without cinching the tape.

Hip

Stand with feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat, typically about 7–9 inches below your natural waist. Keep the tape parallel to the floor.

Reading the Size Chart on a Product Page

Once you have your three measurements, compare each one to the ranges listed on that specific product's chart. For example, if your bust measures 36 inches and your waist measures 29 inches, you would look for the size row where both numbers fall within the stated ranges.

All charts in this collection note that manual measurement may vary by approximately 0.4–1.2 inches. Treat that as a normal tolerance rather than a defect.

Choosing Between Two Sizes

There is no universal rule for sizing up or down—it depends on the design. Some gowns are described as slim or body-skimming and recommend sizing up if you fall between measurements. Others are noted as regular fit and described as true to size. Read the fit description on the product page carefully, and consider how much ease you personally prefer. If the design features structured boning, a fitted bodice, or a column silhouette, a slightly larger size may provide more comfort without distorting the shape.

Still Unsure? Reach Out Before You Order

If the measurements on a product page leave you uncertain, send a note to joseph@kivaretti.shop with the following details so we can help you narrow it down:

  • The product name or link you are considering
  • The two sizes you are comparing
  • Your bust, waist, and hip measurements
  • How you would like the garment to fit (close to the body, relaxed, etc.)
  • Any specific measurement on the product page that is confusing

There is no need to include photos or personal identification—your measurements and the product link are enough to start a useful conversation.