Deborah Chan
Choosing a wedding dress can be a daunting task, with a multitude of options available. However, by keeping a few key things in mind, you can find the perfect dress for your special day. Firstly, it is important to consider your body type and what styles you feel comfortable and confident in. The dress you choose should reflect your personality and unique taste. Be open-minded and try on a variety of styles, even those you might not initially be drawn to. Consider the formality and location of your wedding, as well as the weather, to help guide your choice. Don't be afraid to forgo the traditional white dress if it doesn't resonate with your vision. Most importantly, take your time and trust your instincts to find a dress that makes you feel like the best version of yourself.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of shops visited | 1-4 |
| Types of dresses tried | All types, including those not preferred |
| Colour | Traditional white or non-traditional colours like blue or pink |
| Accessories | Veil, flower crown, mother's veil, grandmother's ring |
| Style | Classic, vintage, comfortable, romantic, glamorous, embellished |
| Body type | Slim, lean, curvy, tall, average height |
| Parts of the body to accentuate | Back, collarbones |
| Formality of the wedding | Formal, casual |
| Location and weather | |
| Shape | Ball gown, A-line, straight, mermaid, column, tea-length, empire, sheath, shift |
| Necklines | V-neck, scoop, strapless, square, bateau |
| Fabric | Mikado, silk, satin, crepe |
| Budget |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing a colour
The colour of your wedding dress is an important choice, and there are many factors to consider when making your decision. Firstly, you should consider your skin tone and natural colouring. Undertones are an important factor in determining the right shade for your dress. Undertones can be warm, cool or neutral. If you have a warm undertone, colours like off-white, pure white, blues, mauve, champagne and grey will complement you best. If you have a cool undertone, colours like optical white, ice white or dull white will suit you, whereas shades with yellow undertones like beige or peach should be avoided. If you have a neutral undertone, you can pull off all colours, although some experts advise avoiding chocolate brown and navy.
Another factor to consider is the season in which you are getting married. For example, icy shades of blue, grey and dark blue work well for a January wedding, whereas February calls for reds, pinks, purples and gold. If you are having a beach wedding, sea green, blue and turquoise are great choices, whereas a rustic wedding calls for moss green, sage, coral, rust, peach and golden yellow.
The style of your wedding can also influence your choice of dress colour. For a classic wedding, blue, green and white are the traditional colours, whereas a fairytale theme calls for pink, gold and silver.
Finally, the colour you choose should be one that you feel represents you and makes you feel good. The colour should reflect your personality and make you feel confident. Ultimately, the choice is yours, and there are no rules when it comes to choosing the colour of your wedding dress.
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Selecting a silhouette
A-line
A-line dresses are slim on top, fitted at the natural waist, and softly flare away from the body. They are universally flattering for most body types, creating a slimming effect while accentuating the waist. A-line gowns are a great option for brides who want to highlight their waist while still having a balanced look from top to bottom.
Ball Gown
Ball gowns feature a fitted bodice and a full skirt that can vary in volume and length. They are classic and timeless, often associated with a fairytale or princess look. Ball gowns are versatile and work well with most body types, especially for average-height to tall women. The skirt can help accentuate the waistline and provide coverage for the hips and lower tummy area. However, they may not be the best choice for shorter brides as the volume of the skirt can overwhelm a petite frame.
Mermaid
Mermaid dresses are fitted from the torso down to the knees and then flare out to the floor. This silhouette is ideal for tall, slender brides or voluptuous brides who want to showcase their curves. A fitted bodice or a mermaid-style skirt will emphasise a narrow waist. However, mermaid dresses may not offer as much freedom of movement as other silhouettes.
Fit and Flare/Trumpet
Fit and flare, or trumpet, gowns are fitted from the chest to mid-thigh and then flare out towards the bottom. This silhouette is flattering and versatile, emphasising the curves of the body. Fit and flare gowns create a "nice hug and release" effect, providing a balance of form-fitting and glamorous elements. They are a popular choice for brides with pear, hourglass, curvy, or athletic builds.
Sheath/Column
Sheath or column dresses have a straight-cut fit with zero waist seam, contouring the body from head to toe. They can flatter brides of all heights, giving a petite bride an elongated look and providing definition to a taller bride. However, for those with more boxy frames, adding a sash or belt to define the waist is recommended. Sheath gowns are typically lighter and more effortless in fabrication compared to column dresses, which hold more structure.
When selecting a silhouette, it is essential to consider your body type, personality, and the style that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Understanding the different silhouettes available will help you make an informed decision and narrow down your options when choosing your dream wedding dress.
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Knowing your body type
Understanding your body type is crucial when it comes to choosing a wedding dress. Each body type has unique features and characteristics that can be accentuated with the right dress style.
Hourglass Figures
The hourglass body type is defined by balanced proportions between the bust and hips, with a well-defined waist. This symmetry can be accentuated with a dress that highlights the waist. Fit-and-flare and mermaid wedding dresses are sure to look stunning on this body type. A-line dresses are also universally flattering for hourglass figures as they emphasise curves while offering a balanced look.
Pear (Triangle) Figures
Pear-shaped figures feature a narrower top and a fuller bottom. Skirts that gently flare out, such as A-line silhouettes, are especially flattering for this body type as they draw attention away from the upper body.
Apple (Round) Figures
Apple-shaped bodies carry most of their weight around the midsection. To create balance, consider a ballgown silhouette that adds fullness to your lower half. Sheath silhouettes that fluidly skim the body might also work well.
Oval (Round) Figures
Oval body types have a wider waist and aim to create the illusion of a risen waist. Sheath silhouettes or gowns with draped or ruched details around the neckline can help elongate the body, creating a longer torso and skimming over the midsection.
Rectangle Figures
Rectangle body types have a straight silhouette, with the shoulders, waist, and hips all relatively the same width. Wedding dress styles that define the waistline and elongate the body, such as A-line dresses, can help add volume and definition by creating the illusion of a more defined waistline.
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Finding the right fabric
The right fabric for your wedding dress will depend on several factors, including your personal style, the formality of the celebration, the season, and your budget. Here are some popular wedding dress fabrics to help you find the right one for your special day:
Satin
Satin is one of the most popular choices for wedding dresses. It is smooth and sleek with a high-shine finish. Satin is a finish, not a fabric, and is usually made from silk or polyester, or a blend of the two. It is perfect for various wedding themes and styles, from sleek and minimalist to structured and dramatic. Satin is also one of the more affordable options when it comes to luxury fabrics.
Silk
Silk is a luxurious and elegant fabric often used for wedding dresses. It can be used to create a variety of looks, from flowing styles to structured silhouettes. Brocade, for example, is made from silk or synthetic fibres and is distinguished by raised designs woven into the fabric. Silk is typically more expensive, so it is important to consider your budget when choosing this fabric.
Chiffon
Chiffon is a lightweight, sheer, and simple weave fabric that is perfect for outdoor or warm-weather weddings. It is often used for the skirt of the gown to create movement and is suitable for every style of dress. Chiffon is delicate and graceful, adding texture and flow to the wedding dress. However, it is important to note that chiffon may not be as durable as other fabrics, especially if the dress has many embellishments.
Lace
Lace is a timeless and versatile fabric that adds a romantic and intricate touch to any wedding dress. It is perfect for intimate elopements or formal celebrations. Lace can be crafted using various techniques and materials, such as silk, linen, or cotton. The quality and price point of lace will depend on the materials and techniques used. According to The Knot's Fashion & Attire Study, 46% of brides wore lace gowns in 2024, making it an extremely popular choice.
Tulle
Tulle is a lightweight and stiff fabric that is perfect for creating voluminous skirts. It can be used to create a unique, dreamy look for your wedding dress. Tulle is also suitable for layering, adding volume and drama to the gown.
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$165 $189
Trying on different styles
When trying on different styles, consider your body type and what styles you are comfortable with and find flattering. If you want to accentuate a certain part of your body, choose a dress that highlights that feature. For example, if you want to show off your back, try a dress with a low-cut or open back. If you love your collarbones, consider a strapless gown.
The formality and location of your wedding, as well as the weather, will also play a role in determining the style of your dress. For a casual or vintage-inspired wedding, a tea-length dress that hits around the mid-calf can be a perfect choice. If you're having an outdoor wedding in a hot climate, you may want to choose a lighter fabric and style to keep you cool.
Don't forget to bring any accessories that you plan on wearing on your big day to your dress fittings. This will help you tie together your entire look and ensure that your dress and accessories complement each other.
Lastly, choose a dress that reflects your personality and makes you feel confident and beautiful. It's important to make decisions based on what you and your partner want, not what others tell you to do.
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Frequently asked questions
Start by figuring out your dream bridal style. You can get inspired by looking at bridal magazines and Pinterest, and putting together a mood board of wedding attire you love. Then, do your research to figure out the silhouettes and styles you want to try.
You should consider your body type, what parts of your body you want to accentuate, and your overall aesthetic for your wedding. You should also think about the formality and location of your wedding, as well as the weather.
Be open-minded and try on a variety of styles, even those you're unsure about. It's also a good idea to bring any accessories you plan to wear, such as family heirlooms, to ensure they work with the dress.
You'll know you've found the right dress when you feel confident and beautiful. During a fitting session, pay attention to your reaction and how you feel when trying on the dress. If you feel sparkly and happy, it's likely the right choice.
