A smiling Habesha woman wearing a custom Habesha dress in accurately measured size

How to Measure for a Habesha Dress and Order a Custom Ethiopian Dress Online

When you think of traditional Ethiopian fashion, the Habesha dress immediately comes to mind — elegant, handwoven, and deeply tied to culture. More than just clothing, a Habesha dress is a cultural statement, worn proudly for weddings, holidays, church services, and celebrations around the world. At Habesha Dress Store, our goal is to make this tradition accessible online by guiding you through the exact steps on how to measure for a Habesha dress and confidently order custom designs that fit perfectly.

Buying a custom Habesha dress online can feel intimidating without clear guidance on measurements and details. Many customers hesitate, worried about choosing the wrong size or leaving out key customization details. This guide solves that problem by walking you step-by-step through measurements, style options, ordering, pricing, and shipping so you can shop online with complete confidence.

A woman wearing a custom Habesha dress designed with a floral Tilf pattern

Why Choose a Custom Habesha Dress Over Ready-Made?

Custom-made Habesha dresses are designed for your body and your style. Unlike readymade dresses that may feel too loose or too tight, a tailored fit ensures both comfort and elegance. The draping, neckline, and embroidery will sit exactly as they should, giving you confidence at any special event.

Custom dresses also mean authentic fabrics. We use Shemma cotton, woven by artisans in Ethiopia, along with traditional and modern embroidery patterns. By choosing custom, you decide on the fabric, the colors, and the level of detail, ensuring your garment is not only beautiful but uniquely yours.

Most importantly, a custom Habesha dress reflects your identity. From the classic white and gold wedding styles to modern variations with bold colors, your dress becomes a personal expression of culture and individuality.



How to Measure Habesha Dress Sizes: The Central Step in Ordering Your Custom Dress

The most common challenge for our clients is on how to measure Habesha dress sizes properly. Many are handed a form requesting measurements but at a loss where to start or how correctly to fill it out. Incorrect measurements lead to ill-fitted clothing and disappointment.

Below is a straightforward, stress-free procedure for getting the sizes correct, eliminating order friction, and buying the ideal custom Habesha dress.

Step 1: What You’ll Need to Measure

Use a soft tape measure. You can do this yourself or ask a professional tailor you trust to help. Key measurements include:

Use a soft measuring tape. You can do it yourself or call in a professional tailor to help. Primary measurements are:

  • Bust: Measure around the fullest part of the chest or breast with the tape close to the body.
  • Waist: From side to side at the natural waistline above the navel.
  • Hips: Measure on the hip and the fullest part of your buttocks.
  • Shoulder Span: Measure across the back around the exterior of one shoulder to the opposite shoulder.
  • Gown Length: Start from the shoulder (a bit shorter from the bottom of the neck) and measure to the desired ending location for the skirt (e.g., ankle or floor level).

Step 2: Recording Your Measurements

Note down all the numbers clearly. Before you submit the form regarding measurement, recheck all the inputs once again. You can also contact us at any time for a proper measurement guide or assistance.


A diagram showing how to measure Habesha dress sizes when ordering online

Beyond Measurements: What Other Details Should You Include?

Measurement is one aspect of buying custom Habesha dresses. Many customers get bewildered about where and how they should specify the customisation information the customiser needs in making the full outfit.

Please have the following at hand when asking about your form or getting in contact with us:

  • Type of Garment: Are you ordering a traditional Shemma dress, a modern one, or a combination?
  • Fabric Preferences: Select Shemma cotton, silk blends, or other culturally accurate fabrics.
  • Colour Choices: White and traditional gold, or colours of your choice? Please state exactly what you prefer.
  • Accessories and Embellishments: Specify whether you prefer Tilet (the personalised shawl decoration), custom embroidery designs, or other personalised elements.
  • Design Customisations: Indicate if you'd like custom insertions of special motifs on the clothing, sleeve designs, or combining custom and readymade clothing.

Providing this information along with your measurements helps us create a dress tailored perfectly to your vision and body.

Step-by-Step Guide to Ordering Your Custom Habesha Dress Online

To make ordering custom Habesha dresses straightforward, here’s how the entire process works:

  1. Take Accurate Measurements
    Use the steps above or consult a professional tailor for assistance. Contact us if you want a measurement form or personalised help.
  2. Choose Your Style and Fabric
    Browse our Habesha dress collection online. Whether you want Habesha custom wedding dresses or everyday traditional wear, pick your fabric, colour, and any accessories.
  3. Submit Your Order with Full Details
    Send us your measurements, style preferences, and any additional requests via email or through our website.
  4. Production and Quality Assurance
    Our skilled artisans in Shiromeda, Addis Ababa, handcraft your dress using traditional methods. Each piece undergoes a quality check before shipping.
  5. Fast, Free Shipping
    We offer free international shipping via DHL and FedEx. Delivery typically takes 7 to 14 days, depending on your location. You’ll receive tracking information to follow your dress from our workshop to your doorstep.

Pricing Expectations vs. Value: What You Should Know

When it comes to cost, custom Habesha dresses may seem more expensive than cheaper off-the-shelf options. Here’s why the price reflects real value:

  • Price Range: Expect to pay between $150 and $400 USD for quality custom dresses. Wedding dresses or highly detailed pieces cost more.
  • Supporting Artisans: Your purchase supports Ethiopian textile artisans who rely on this trade. Each dress takes hours of skilled labour and traditional craftsmanship.
  • Durability and Fit: Custom dresses last longer, fit better, and feel more comfortable than mass-produced ones.
  • Cultural Significance: This isn’t just clothing; it’s preserving heritage and expressing cultural pride. This makes it a meaningful addition to your must-have Habesha dress wardrobe that you can wear repeatedly for special occasions.

    Traditional Ethiopian Dress | Habesha dress for festival yaab.habesha

Shipping Information: What to Expect When You Order

At Habesha Dress Store, we understand the importance of reliable delivery. Here’s what you get:

  • Free, Fast Shipping Worldwide via DHL or FedEx.
  • Estimated Delivery Time: 7 to 14 days, depending on your location.
  • Tracking: Full tracking info so you can follow your package.
  • Safe Packaging: Dresses are carefully packed to prevent damage.
A smiling woman wearing a custom made Habesha dress with colourful embroidery

Additional Tips and FAQs

  • How Do I Care for My Habesha Dress?
    Hand wash gently or use a professional cleaner familiar with delicate fabrics. Store away from sunlight to maintain fabric quality.
  • What If I Need Alterations After Receiving the Dress?
    Many local tailors skilled in Ethiopian clothing styles can help. We can also offer advice if needed.
  • Can I Order Habesha Custom Wedding Dresses?
    Absolutely. Our wedding collection offers personalised, authentic designs perfect for your special day.

Supporting Ethiopian Artisans with Every Purchase

When you order custom Habesha dresses on Habesha Dress Store, you’re not just getting a beautiful garment; you’re supporting Ethiopia’s traditional textile industry and the hardworking artisans of Shiromeda market. According to Ethiopia’s traditional textile industry overview, the sector plays a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage and generating local employment. Your purchase helps keep this vibrant tradition alive.

Ready to Order Your Custom Habesha Dress?

Ordering custom Habesha dresses has never been easier. With our clear measuring guide, personalised options, skilled artisans, and free international shipping, you can proudly wear a piece of Ethiopian culture anywhere in the world.

Start your order or get help with measurements.


Contact us here.

Support Phone Number: ‪+251 95 600 6929‬, WhatsApp

Email: contact@habeshadress.store


Experience the perfect fit, authentic fabrics, and unique styles only custom tailoring can provide.

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