Congratulations! You've found the partner of your dreams – now it's time to find the perfect dress for your wedding day. Wedding gown shopping can seem overwhelming at first, but doing your research to know what styles, and terminology, to ask for when you walk through the door for that first appointment helps. Here’s a quick and easy guide to breakdown the most popular bridal gown silhouettes, and which styles flatter each body type.
Sketch credit: June Letters Studio
Dress Silhouette Guide
Ball Gown: The true “princess” dress. The ball gown has a fitted bodice and a full skirt. Ideal for most body types, but can be overwhelming on petites with very small frames.
For brides dreaming of a fairytale wedding, the ball gown is the quintessential choice. This regal style features a fitted bodice and a dramatically full skirt that cascades from the waist. The ballgown silhouette creates a grand, romantic look and is perfect for accentuating a small waist while providing a majestic presence. If you envision a luxurious celebration, a ball gown will certainly make a statement.
See: 20+ Ball Gowns for the Romantic Bride
A-Line: Slightly more flowy than a ball gown, A-lines have fitted bodices through the waist and cascade out towards the ground, resembling the outline of an uppercase "A." Ideal for all body types; the A-line wedding dress is a timeless and universally flattering choice. This style offers a comfortable yet elegant fit. The A-line silhouette is truly versatile, fitting a variety of wedding themes from classic to contemporary.
Trumpet/Fit-and-Flare: Literally "fit-and-flare:" fitted through the body and flairs out mid-thigh. This cut is between a modified a-line and a mermaid cut. Ideal for brides looking to accentuate a small waist. Think: hourglass figures and petites. These glamorous silhouettes are perfect for brides who want to showcase their figure and add a touch of modern sophistication.
Maggie Sottero – Abbie-Lynette
Sottero and Midgley – Atherton
Mermaid: Sleek and sexy. Fitted on the body from the chest to the knee, the mermaid dress flares out dramatically at or below the knee, creating a distinctive "mermaid tail" effect. Ideal for brides looking to show off their curves.
Sheath/Column: A narrow shape that flows straight down from the neckline to the hem, closely skimming the body without flaring out. The sheath, or column, dress offers a sleek, minimalist aesthetic. It's an elegant choice for a modern bride, often favored for its understated sophistication and ability to elongate a frame. Sheath dresses are ideal for less formal weddings or for brides who prefer a lightweight, easy-to-move-in gown. Ideal for lean frames, and athletic body types. Also great for hourglasses who are looking to flaunt their curves!
Jumpsuit: A one-piece garment, with the bottom falling into either trousers or shorts. Great for all body types!
Popular Wedding Dress Necklines
Beyond the silhouette, the neckline plays a significant role in the overall look and feel of your wedding dress. Popular options include:
- Sweetheart: A curved neckline resembling the top of a heart, known for being romantic and flattering.
- V-Neck: A neckline that plunges into a 'V' shape, offering a classic and often elongating effect.
- Off-the-Shoulder: A neckline that drapes gracefully over the arms, exposing the collarbones and shoulders for a romantic touch.
- Illusion: Features sheer fabric (often lace or tulle) over a more solid bodice, creating the illusion of intricate detail on the skin.
How to Choose Your Dream Wedding Dress
Deciding on your wedding dress is a personal journey, but here are a few tips to guide you:
- Consider Your Body Type: While every style can be adapted, some silhouettes naturally flatter certain body types more than others. An A-line silhouette, for instance, is known for its universal appeal.
- Think About Your Wedding Venue and Theme: A grand ball gown might be perfect for a formal ballroom, while a sheath dress could be ideal for a beach wedding.
- Try On Various Styles: You might be surprised by what you love once you see it on. Be open to trying different dresses and don't limit yourself to just one idea.
- Trust Your Instincts: Ultimately, the best bridal gown is the one that makes you feel beautiful, confident, and like yourself on your wedding day.
Embark on this exciting journey with an open mind, and you're sure to find the perfect wedding dress that celebrates your unique style and helps you shine on your special day.
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