Franklin Dean
Choosing a wedding dress is one of the most important parts of the wedding planning process. It can be tricky, frustrating and tiring, especially as there are so many images, ideas and trends to follow on social media. However, it's important to remember that there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to wedding dresses. The most important thing is to choose a dress that makes you feel confident and comfortable. To do this, you should consider your body shape and personality. For example, if you're tall and slender, a sheath gown or flowy A-line gown might suit you, while if you have an hourglass figure, a fitted style or ballgown might accentuate your curves. Ultimately, the best wedding dress will be one that makes you feel like yourself.
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Dressing for your body type
For hourglass figures, look for dresses that cinch at the waist to showcase your curves. A fitted bodice or a mermaid-style skirt will hug your curves and emphasize your narrow waist. A-line dresses are also universally flattering for hourglass figures, as they emphasize curves while providing a balanced look. Waist details like belts and sashes also work well for hourglass shapes.
If you have an oval-shaped body, also known as an apple shape, halter or high-neck gowns may overwhelm your bustline, so consider other styles. A-line dresses can be a good option as they provide a balanced silhouette.
Those with a pear-shaped body tend to have a wider hip measurement than bust or waist measurements. To balance out your proportions, consider a dress with intricate details on the upper body or bust to draw attention upwards. Slinky and slender designs can flatter a pear-shaped figure, and you can also accentuate your bust with details.
If you have a rectangle-shaped body, your shoulders, waist, and hips are likely to be similar in width. To add volume and definition, look for dresses with a fitted bodice and a skirt that flares out. Adding a belt or sash at the waist can also help accentuate your waist and add interest to a simple dress.
When it comes to petite body types, you may have a shorter torso, shorter arms and legs, or narrower shoulders. Empire waistlines can elongate the body and are a good choice if you want to draw attention to your bust. Tea-length dresses that hang at the natural waist and graze the ankle can also be a good option, as they create a laid-back and contemporary look.
Regardless of your body type, it's essential to keep an open mind and try on various dresses. You may be surprised to find that a completely different style from what you initially envisioned suits you perfectly. Additionally, don't forget that you can always have your dress altered or create a custom wedding gown made just for you.
Altering a Wedding Dress: Twice is Nice
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Princess-style dresses
Princess-style wedding dresses are a popular choice for brides who want to feel like royalty on their special day. This style of dress is often defined by a full silhouette, beautiful beading, and luxe embellishments, creating a grand and dramatic statement.
There are two main categories of princess wedding dresses: classic royal and fairytale princess. Classic royal gowns take inspiration from iconic vintage wedding dresses worn by princesses in the past, such as Princess Diana and Grace Kelly. These dresses typically feature high necklines, puff sleeves, lace details, and a cathedral-length train. They embody a timeless and regal aesthetic.
On the other hand, fairytale princess dresses lean into whimsical and magical elements. Think floral silhouettes, botanical designs, three-dimensional embellishments, and modern touches like sheer detailing and open backs. Fairytale princess gowns often include ball gown silhouettes, reminiscent of Cinderella and other Disney princesses. A corset bodice and clear heels can further enhance the fairy tale vibe.
When choosing a princess-style dress, it's important to consider your body shape and personal preferences. Princess dresses can flatter various figures, with their fitted bodices and voluminous skirts. The contrast between the loose skirt and fitted bodice creates a visually slimming effect on the waist. Additionally, the fluffy skirt can disguise fuller hips and create an hourglass silhouette. For curvier brides, an A-line princess dress or a fitted style like a mermaid or sheath can also be flattering choices.
Princess-style wedding dresses offer a range of options to suit different personalities and tastes. Whether you opt for a classic royal or fairytale princess vibe, you can feel like royalty on your wedding day.
Vera Wang Wedding Dresses: What's the Cost?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$48.79 $59.99
Strapless ball gowns
When it comes to wedding dresses, there are no hard and fast rules. While it's important to choose a dress that suits your body shape and flatters your figure, you should also listen to your stylist and, most importantly, go with what you want. A dress might suit your body shape, but if you don't feel comfortable and confident in it, it's not the one.
That being said, strapless ball gowns are a style that can work for a variety of body types. They emphasise your best features and create a memorable entrance. A strapless ball gown with a fitted bodice and full skirt will create the illusion of curves, balancing out your torso and bust. For a more dramatic look, a strapless mermaid dress will highlight your feminine features.
If you're looking for something with sparkle, a misty tulle ball gown with sequins and a crystal-embellished bodice could be the one for you. For a more classic, elegant look, a strapless lace wedding dress is a beautiful option. Or, for a contemporary twist, consider a strapless tulle dress with a bandeau wrap to define your waistline.
To complement your strapless ball gown, style your hair in a high bun and add a pair of delicate drip earrings. This will complete your look and ensure you feel as amazing as you look.
Choosing the Perfect Wedding Dress: How Far in Advance?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$39.99 $42.99
Hourglass figures
If you have an hourglass figure, you might want to consider a wedding dress that accentuates your curves. Trumpet, fit-and-flare, and mermaid silhouettes are all popular choices for brides with hourglass figures. These styles hug your curves and flare out at the bottom, creating a stunning and elegant silhouette. Fit-and-flare gowns are a good option if you're looking for more mobility, as the flare is more gradual than the other two styles.
To highlight your waist, you might opt for a dress with a well-defined torso. A-line and sheath dresses are good options for this, as the skirt gently flows outward from a fitted bodice, creating a beautiful contrast. Sweetheart necklines and off-the-shoulder styles can also help to emphasise your upper body and create an ethereal look. If you want to draw attention to your lower body, a deep V-neckline will highlight your torso and waist.
If you're looking for a more traditional and sophisticated look, a mermaid-style dress is a great choice for hourglass figures. This style hugs your waist and hips, adding a little "drama" to your wedding look. However, if you want to move away from emphasising your hourglass silhouette, a sheath gown or modified A-line dress will elongate your legs and create the illusion of added height.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose a dress that makes you feel confident and happy. Keep an open mind and try on different silhouettes to find the perfect dress for your special day.
The Black Wedding Dress: A Guide to Buying Yours
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$64.59 $79.99
Comfort and confidence
A well-fitted dress can make you feel beautiful and confident, and bridal consultants or stylists can help you with this. A fitted gown, for example, will accentuate your curves and mimic an hourglass shape. If you have an hourglass figure, you can also emphasise your waist with belts and sashes. A-line dresses are another versatile and flattering style, with a fitted top that flares out from the waist, creating a balanced and elegant look.
If you have a fuller bust, wider straps or sleeves will make you feel more supported, and a sweetheart or V-neckline will flatter your bust. If you're bigger busted, you might want to avoid low-cut and strapless dresses, as these offer less support. High necklines can also be a good option if you feel more comfortable wearing a bra.
For a vintage yet contemporary look, a midi gown can be a great choice, with its cinched waist and raised hemline. This style is especially flattering for tall brides. If you're petite, an empire waistline can elongate your body, while a drop-waist dress will elongate your torso, creating a balanced proportion for those with long legs.
Remember, it's about finding a dress that reflects your personal style and makes you feel amazing. Don't worry too much about what others think—if you feel confident, you're in your element.
Guide to Wedding Guest Style for Men
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The first step is to know your body type. You can do this by measuring your bust, waist, hips and body length. Once you know your body type, you can choose a dress that flatters your figure. For example, if you have an hourglass figure, a fitted style will highlight your curves. If you are tall and slender, a sheath gown will play up your natural height.
You can ask a friend or family member to help you take your measurements. You can also book an appointment with a bridal stylist, who will be able to advise on your body type and recommend dresses that will suit you.
While it's important to choose a dress that flatters your figure, it's also important to choose a dress that you feel comfortable and confident in. Ultimately, the biggest thing that will make a difference in how you look in a dress is how you feel.
