Rhiannon Hendricks
Choosing a wedding dress is an exciting and emotional experience. With so many styles, shapes, and sizes to choose from, it can quickly become overwhelming. The key is to choose a dress that flatters your body shape. To create the illusion of curves, for example, choose a dress that adds volume to your bust and hips. A-line dresses are universally flattering, with a fitted bodice that flares out to create a soft A-shaped skirt. Mermaid styles are also a good option for those who want to flaunt their curves. For those who prefer to conceal their stomach, an empire waist silhouette is a better option.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Body shape | Hourglass, Pear, Rectangle, Triangle, Oval, Petite, Tall and slender |
| Neckline | V-neck, Sweetheart, Scoop, Off-the-shoulder, Halter, Plunging |
| Sleeves | Cap, Flutter, Fuller |
| Back | Illusion, Low-cut, Open |
| Fabric | Chiffon, Tulle, Satin, Structured, Flowing |
| Silhouette | A-line, Ball gown, Sheath, Column, Fit and flare, Mermaid/Fishtail, Trumpet, Empire |
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Pear-shaped bodies
If you have a pear-shaped body, you will typically have larger hips, thighs, and bottoms, with a smaller, more petite upper body. This can make it difficult to find clothing that fits well in all the right places, as you may be a different size at your hips than your bust.
When choosing a wedding dress, you can opt for a gown that is more fitted around your hips, but you may need to have alterations done to accommodate the size difference between your bust and hips. You can ask your retailer about split sizing.
To balance out your proportions, you can draw attention to your upper body and accentuate your waist. A-line, ball gown, and empire waist dresses are excellent choices, as they define the waist and skim over the hips. You can also consider a fishtail dress or a design with a dropped waist that hugs your hips. If you want to show off your curves, a fit-and-flare gown is a stunning option. This silhouette hugs the body through the bust, waist, and hips, then flares out below the hips.
When it comes to the neckline, a pear-shaped figure can benefit from a top that draws the eye upwards. A sweetheart neckline, off-the-shoulder neckline, or halter neckline can all work well to balance out the silhouette. You can also consider gowns with embellishment along the upper torso, or long-sleeved wedding dresses with intricate detailing that ensures the focal point remains on your bodice.
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Hourglass bodies
If you have an hourglass figure, you're in luck! Hourglass figures can pull off most wedding dress styles. This body type is characterised by balanced proportions between the bust and hips, with a smaller, well-defined waist. To accentuate your curves, opt for a dress that cinch at the waist. A fitted bodice or a mermaid-style skirt will hug your curves and emphasise your waist. Trumpet-style dresses also complement the hourglass profile, hugging your curves and flaring out at the bottom for an elegant silhouette.
A-line dresses are universally flattering for hourglass figures, emphasising curves while offering a balanced look. Look for skirts that flare gently from the waist, creating an elegant, feminine silhouette. If you have a smaller bust, try a style with detailing on top to create a more hourglass shape, such as sleeves, an interesting neckline, beading or lace.
Sheath dresses are another option for hourglass figures, especially if you add a belt or sash to highlight your waist. Finally, ballgowns can be a great choice for hourglass figures, as the fitted bodice and dramatic skirt create a striking profile and accentuate the waist.
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Apple/oval bodies
If you have an apple or oval body shape, you likely have a larger bust, narrow hips, and a fuller midsection or torso. To create a flattering and balanced silhouette, you should consider styles that elongate your body and create a longer torso, skimming over your midsection.
For apple-shaped bodies, it is recommended to create a defined waistline to balance the upper and lower body. A fitted bodice will define and highlight the midsection, while a waistline that cinches in will visually make it appear to be the narrowest part of your body. You can also consider adding a narrow belt to highlight your natural waistline without adding bulk. When it comes to sleeves, opt for light and airy sleeves that balance out your hips. Avoid heavy fabrics that will add bulk to your arms.
For oval-shaped bodies, it is best to avoid halter or high-neck gowns as these can overwhelm your bustline and make your torso appear shorter. Instead, opt for styles with draped or ruched details around the neckline to create a flattering focal point. Subtle shapes like empire or A-line dresses glide over curves without clinging to any particular area, offering a timeless and versatile look that complements various body shapes.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose a dress that makes you feel comfortable, confident, and radiant. Understanding your body shape will help you select a dress style that enhances your best features and reflects your personal taste and style.
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Rectangle bodies
A rectangular body type is characterised by a straight silhouette, with the bust, waist, and hips being similar in width. If you have a rectangular figure, you may want to consider a dress that adds curves and definition to your frame.
To flatter your body type, look for dresses with a fitted bodice and a skirt that flares out to add volume. Adding a belt or sash at the waist can accentuate your waist and add interest to a simple dress. Opt for dresses that allow you to cinch in the waist, or choose dresses with built-in embellished waistbands for added definition. Ruffles, beading, and lace details can create dimension and shape. Look for dresses with intricate embellishments and pieces around the bust or waist to draw attention to these areas.
For those with a rectangle body shape, a simple sheath dress can create the illusion of curves. A-line dresses are also a good choice for this body type, as they are universally flattering and emphasise curves without overemphasising any particular area. The flare from the waist adds volume to the lower body, giving a more defined shape.
Ball gown-style dresses with voluminous skirts and fitted bodices are also a great choice for a rectangle body type. They give a dramatic look and create a well-defined waist. Tea-length dresses are also stylish for rectangle body types.
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Petite bodies
If you're a petite bride, it's important to choose a wedding dress style that elongates your figure and doesn't overwhelm your frame. Here are some tips specifically for petite brides:
Sheath wedding dresses
Sheath dresses are straight from top to bottom, gently following the natural curvature of the body. This long line helps to elongate a small frame and gives the illusion of curves. Look for a gown with a high waist or a subtle waist to avoid breaking up the line of the body.
A-line wedding dresses
A-line gowns are universally flattering and can complement all body types. They are narrow at the top and gently flare out, adding volume to a petite bride without being overwhelming. They can also create a slimmer waistline while flattering the bust.
Empire waistlines
Empire silhouettes feature a fitted bodice, with a waistline that sits just beneath the bust, creating an elongated skirt. This style elongates the body, making it a great choice for petite brides. It also draws attention to the bust and is ideal for those seeking a vintage-style gown.
Trumpet wedding dresses
Trumpet styles offer a similar effect to A-line dresses, with a fitted bodice and flared skirt, but they're more form-fitting and can showcase curves.
Open back and halter neckline
Consider an open back to elongate your shape, and a halter neckline is a great option for brides with petite body types.
Remember, it's important to feel confident and comfortable in your wedding dress. Try on different silhouettes and see how you feel. You can also have a custom gown made or alter an off-the-rack gown to fit you perfectly.
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