Franklin Dean
Choosing a wedding dress is an exciting part of the wedding planning process, but it can also be overwhelming. There are countless styles, shapes, and silhouettes to choose from, and it's important to find a dress that reflects your style, personality, and the dynamic you share with your partner. To determine your wedding dress style, you should first identify your body type and understand the different dress silhouettes that flatter it. Keep an open mind, try on a variety of gowns, and consider a dress with a corset if you want to alter your shape. You can also compile a visual file of your favourite wedding dresses to identify an overarching theme and determine your bridal style.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Body type | Curvy, petite, pear-shaped, apple-shaped, hourglass, rectangle, inverted triangle, oval, tall, slender |
| Silhouette | Sheath, ball gown, A-line, mermaid/fishtail, column/sheath, sweetheart/strapless, halter neck, V-neck, long sleeve, off-the-shoulder |
| Neckline | Plunging V-neck, wrap, strapless |
| Style | Embellished, lacy, voluminous, open back, corseted, ruffled, textured |
| Other | Keep an open mind, try on different styles, consider comfort and mobility |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Identify your body type
The first step to determining your wedding dress style is to identify your body type. This involves observing your body's horizontal and vertical alignment and paying attention to your curves. Note the widest points of your body—are they at the shoulders, bust, waist, hips, or are they all equal? You can also measure your shoulders, bust, waist, and hips to better understand your body type.
There are several recognized body types in the fashion world, each distinguished by where they carry their weight. The most common are the hourglass, pear, apple, rectangle, inverted triangle, and oval.
If you have an hourglass figure, you have a well-balanced bust and hips with a cinched waist. Hourglass figures can pull off most wedding dress styles, but a dress that highlights the waist will be especially flattering. A-line dresses are universally flattering for hourglass figures, emphasizing curves while offering a balanced look.
If you have a pear body shape, you tend to have hips that are wider than your bust, with a defined waist. Wedding dresses that are more fitted, such as a sleek silhouette or fishtail/mermaid dress, will suit you. Sleeved dresses are also a good option to balance out your smaller shoulders with your wider hips.
If you have an apple-shaped body, also known as an oval body shape, you have a larger bust, narrow hips, and a fuller torso area. Halter or high-neck gowns should be avoided as they can overwhelm your bustline and give your figure less definition. Instead, look for dresses with a fitted bodice and a skirt that flares to add volume.
If you have a rectangle-shaped body, also called a banana shape, your shoulders, waist, and hips are all within the same width. You may also be tall, have little waist definition, and a smaller bust. Avoid figure-hugging dresses such as mermaid or fishtail styles as these will highlight your straight shape. A-line, empire, ball gowns, and princess-style dresses will help bring more definition to your shape and create the illusion of a curvier figure.
Wedding Dresses: Kim Kardashian Hollywood Style Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Keep an open mind
When it comes to choosing a wedding dress, it's important to keep an open mind. Many brides have a set idea of what they want, but when they try it on, they realise it's not for them. By narrowing your focus, you might miss out on the perfect dress. Instead, try on a variety of styles, shapes and fabrics, even if they're not what you had in mind. You might be surprised by what you love. Take pictures of yourself in each dress to compare later.
It's also a good idea to try on different silhouettes. A silhouette refers to the outline of a garment, which could be loose and flowing, like a sheath dress, or fitted and flaring, like a ballgown. Different silhouettes suit different body types, so it's worth trying on a few options to see what flatters your figure. For example, if you're tall and slim, a sheath silhouette that skims the body's curves might be a good choice. Or, if you want to create balance, a ballgown silhouette can add fullness to your lower half.
Remember, your wedding dress should reflect your personality and style. It should also suit your venue and plans for the day. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and explore different options. When you try on dresses, be open and honest about your expectations and how you feel about each one. Your bridal stylist is there to help, and the more feedback they have, the better.
Lastly, don't get too stressed about finding the perfect dress. Wedding dress shopping should be an exciting process, but it can also be overwhelming at times. Take your time, enjoy the journey, and don't be afraid to make changes along the way.
Toilet Paper Wedding Dress Game: How Many Rolls?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Understand your personal style
Understanding your personal style is key to determining your wedding dress style. This involves considering your body type, the venue, and your aesthetic for the big day.
First, determine your body type. This can be done by having a friend or family member measure your bust, waist, hips, and body length. You can also book an appointment with a bridal stylist who can help you determine your body type and recommend styles that will suit you. For instance, if you have an hourglass figure, a fitted style will highlight your curves, and a dress with a halter neckline can enhance your shoulders. If you have a small bust, a plunging neckline can add shape, as can a corseted gown. Athletic body types can opt for off-the-shoulder or strapless dresses to show off their arms. If you want to play up your personality, choose heavier, more durable materials like satin over light and flowy fabrics like chiffon.
Next, consider the venue and your desired aesthetic. For example, a voluminous ball gown can add drama, but it may be overwhelming for a petite frame and might not be practical for a destination wedding. A fit-and-flare style is both contemporary and traditional and works for many body types, while a simple sheath or column gown is ideal for taller brides. Non-traditional lengths like tea-length or mini dresses can infuse personality into your look, especially for a casual, rustic, or nautical wedding.
Finally, think about your unique personal style. Are you a traditional bride, a boho bride, or somewhere in between? Do you want to stick with the standard white hue, or do you want to forgo it for a colour that resonates more with your personality, like eggshell, ivory, blue, or pink?
Remember, the most important thing is to listen to your gut and select a style that you love, regardless of other people's expectations.
The Perfect Time to Buy Your Wedding Dress
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Consider the venue and season
The venue and season of your wedding are important factors to consider when choosing your wedding dress. If you're having a daytime or intimate affair, a tea-length dress that falls just above the ankle or a midi gown that hits mid-calf can be a great choice. These styles are perfect for a more casual, laid-back look and can add a touch of vintage charm to your wedding ensemble.
If you're having a wedding during the warmer months, you may want to opt for a dress that is more breathable and comfortable. Consider lightweight fabrics and styles that offer more airflow, such as an A-line silhouette or a flowy gown with a slit. On the other hand, if your wedding is taking place during the cooler seasons, you might want to choose a dress with longer sleeves or a ball gown with a fuller skirt to keep you warm.
The venue of your wedding also plays a significant role in dress selection. For an outdoor wedding, consider a dress that will complement the natural surroundings, such as a flowy gown with a delicate silhouette. If your wedding is taking place in a more formal venue, such as a grand ballroom, you might want to opt for a more sophisticated and elegant style, like a sheath gown or a dress with a dramatic, full skirt.
Additionally, consider the level of formality you want to convey. For a casual wedding, a simple and elegant dress with clean lines and minimal embellishments might be more appropriate. On the other hand, if you're going for a more formal affair, you can opt for a dress with more intricate details, such as embroidery, beading, or a corseted bodice.
Remember, it's essential to keep an open mind when shopping for your wedding dress. Try on different styles and explore various options to find the perfect dress that reflects your personality, venue, and season of your wedding day.
Kim Kardashian's Wedding Dress: Train Length Revealed
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Try on different styles
Trying on different wedding dress styles is an important part of the process of finding your dream gown. It can be easy to have a set idea of what your ideal dress looks like, but when you try it on, you might realise it isn't for you. Keeping an open mind is crucial, and trying on a variety of styles will help you to determine what you feel good in.
It's a good idea to do some research before trying on dresses. Compile a file of your favourite styles, whether that's from magazines, Instagram, Pinterest, online boutiques, or celebrity looks. Identify some commonalities in the styles you like, such as whether they are embellished, lacy, or voluminous, or whether they have open backs or strapless necklines. This will give you a good starting point when it comes to trying on different styles.
There are many different types of wedding dress styles to choose from, and it can be helpful to try on a range of them to see what suits your body type and what makes you feel comfortable and confident. Some common styles include ball gowns, A-line, mermaid/fishtail, fit and flare, and column/sheath. Each of these styles will flatter different body types and create different silhouettes, so it's worth trying on a few options to see what works for you.
When trying on different styles, don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Try on dresses with different necklines, cuts, and silhouettes to find what suits you best. It's also important to keep in mind that the sample size you try on might not be your exact size, so you may need to use your imagination a little. Sales associates can help you by clipping or pinning the dress to give you a better idea of the fit, and most dresses can be altered by the designer or a skilled seamstress.
Finally, don't be discouraged if you don't find "the one" right away. It may take multiple shopping trips and trying on many different gowns to find the perfect dress. However, be mindful of not trying on too many styles, as this can lead to decision fatigue and make the process more confusing. Enjoy the process, take your time, and trust the expertise of specialists to help guide you in finding your dream wedding dress.
How to Remove Mesh from Your Wedding Dress
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
To determine your wedding dress style, you must first identify your body type. Observe your body's horizontal and vertical alignment, paying attention to your curves. Note the widest points of your body and measure your shoulders, bust, waist, and hips. Once you've become familiar with your body type, you can start to understand the different wedding dress silhouettes and styles that will flatter your figure. Keep in mind that different dress waistlines and styles can either accentuate or diminish your natural curves.
It's important to keep an open mind while shopping for a wedding dress. By narrowing your focus, you'll limit your options and may miss out on finding your dream dress. Don't be afraid to try on different wedding dress styles to see what makes you feel the most confident. Additionally, consider taking a wedding dress style quiz to receive personalized recommendations.
Different wedding dress styles flatter different body types. Here are some tips for common body types:
- Hourglass: Most wedding dress styles suit an hourglass figure. To emphasize your curves, consider a mermaid or fishtail gown that hugs your body and flares out dramatically at the skirt. Gowns with plunging V-necklines, wrap dresses, and strapless gowns are also fabulous choices.
- Pear: A ball gown can accentuate your waistline and provide coverage for your hips and lower tummy. An A-line silhouette is also a great option, as it skims over the lower body without hugging too tightly.
- Apple: An A-line dress adds a soft, beautiful coverage that balances out your silhouette.
- Tall and slender: A sheath gown will play up your natural height. A flowy A-line gown can also add romance to your shape.
- Small bust: Plunging necklines are flattering and add shape. A corseted wedding gown or a dress with ruffles and texture can also help add shape.
