Quick answer
The Del Rey and Satellite gowns are built on different foundations, so your usual bridal size may not apply to both. Del Rey uses stitched-in boning with a girdle for a locked-in corset feel, while Satellite relies on multi-layered tulle and Chantilly lace with whalebones to the waist. Measure your bust, waist, and high hip, then match each measurement to the size chart for the specific gown rather than assuming one size fits all.
How do I measure for a Del Rey or Satellite gown?
Measure over the undergarments you plan to wear on the day, keeping the tape snug but not tight. For the bust, measure across the fullest point; for the waist, measure at your natural crease above the belly button; for the high hip, measure about 7 inches below the waist. Write the numbers down in inches and centimeters so you can compare against each gown’s chart. If you are between sizes, size to the larger measurement for a structured gown like Del Rey and consider the smaller size only if you want a very close fit in a stretch-friendly fabric.
Does the Del Rey dress fit true to size?
The Del Rey bodice is structured with stitched-in boning and a girdle, which means it holds its shape and does not stretch much. That structure is what gives the corset-like support, but it also means the fit is less forgiving than a soft gown. If your bust and waist fall into different sizes, choose the size that fits your bust and have the waist taken in, because letting out a structured bodice is more limited. The transparent embroidered tulle sides add a refined touch but do not add stretch, so do not count on them to bridge a size gap.
How does Satellite sizing differ from Del Rey?
Satellite is built from multi-layered tulle and Chantilly Calais-Caudry lace with whalebones extending to the waist. That construction gives a softer, more draped feel than Del Rey’s rigid corsetry, so it can accommodate slight variations in your measurements more comfortably. The trade-off is that the lace and tulle layers have some give but not full stretch, so the gown still needs to match your bust and waist closely. If you are between sizes in Satellite, the layered tulle may feel more forgiving at the waist, but the bustier still needs to sit flat without gaping.
What if my measurements fall between two sizes?
Start with the size that matches your largest measurement, then plan for alterations on the smaller areas. For Del Rey, that usually means fitting the bust and adjusting the waist. For Satellite, fit the bustier and let the skirt drape naturally. Bring your measurements to a professional bridal tailor before ordering if you can, because the cost of taking in a gown is usually lower than the cost of letting one out, especially on structured bodices with boning.
Can I order a size based on my street clothes size?
No. Bridal sizing is not the same as ready-to-wear sizing, and it varies between designers and even between gowns in the same collection. A size 8 in a structured Del Rey will not fit the same as a size 8 in Satellite’s layered tulle. Always use the specific size chart for the gown you are considering, and treat your street size as a starting point only. If you have worn other Rime Arodaky gowns, note that the fit can still differ because the construction changes from style to style.
Quick fit checkpoints
Bust fit for Del Rey
The structured bodice with boning and girdle should feel secure without restricting breathing. If you can pinch more than an inch of fabric at the bust, consider sizing down or planning an alteration. Prioritize bust fit; adjust the waist later.
Waist fit for Satellite
The multi-layered tulle and lace bustier with whalebones should sit smoothly against your waist. Check that the whalebones do not dig in when you sit down. Sit, twist, and raise your arms before deciding.
Between sizes
For Del Rey, choose the larger size if your bust and waist differ by more than one size. For Satellite, choose the size that fits your bust and let the tulle drape. Always confirm with a bridal tailor before ordering.
Product facts
- Del Rey: The Del Rey dress is crafted from jacquard satin with a print developed by Rime in Italy, named 'petit bouquet.' The bodice is structured with stitched-in boning for a corset-like support with a girdle for optimal support. Transparent sides made of embroidered tulle add a refined touch, while a draped neckline delicately highlights the bust. The structured boning and girdle mean the fit is less forgiving than a soft gown, so measure carefully and size to your bust.
- Satellite: The dress comes to life through over a week of meticulous craftsmanship, as Chantilly Calais-Caudry lace flowers are thoughtfully embroidered throughout every inch of the gown. The dress features a bustier made from multi-layered tulle and Chantilly Calais-Caudry lace, complete with whalebones that extend to the waist. An asymmetrical drape in textured organza at the bust level creates intriguing shades of... The layered tulle and lace bustier with whalebones offers a softer fit than Del Rey, but the bust still needs to sit flat without gaping.
