Trying on a sample size that’s too small?

I did not try on any Hayley Paige dresses, but you'd be surprised how forgiving a lot of the dresses are. I am almost your exact size - I'm normally a 10 w/a 30 waist, am currently a 12 (thanks COVID), but tried on many 8s and I think even a 6. Just get your shimmy on - it works! Some of the fabrics do have a stretch, plus over time the samples get stretched out so may no longer represent the true size. Even if the back can't zip up, you still get a great idea how it looks on your body. Take lots of photos if the salon allows it - seeing how I photographed in each dress really helped me!

I'm a bit smaller (usually a street size 6) but I think if I was 3" taller I'd probably have similar measurement, size, and shape to you. I didn't run into the issue of trying on samples too small but I don't imagine a few inches in the waist being a deal breaker for you being able to get into the gowns and get an idea of how they would look on you. I think you should go anyway!

Also sample gowns tend to stretch out because they get put on and taken off so many times, so it's possible the sample size 10 will fit more like a street size 10 than the measurements chart shows. I feel like most bridal sizes run 1-2 sizes smaller than street sizes, and I hear that sample gowns can stretch up to a full 1-2 sizes (depending on fabric, style, and how much the gown has been tried on), so a well used sample might be a perfect fit for you.

You might be surprised in that it might fit you better than you think! But like previous posters said, they have all sorts of clips and pins so that it looks just right when trying it on, even if small. Good luck and enjoy!!!