Lyla Dejesus
Choosing the right wedding dress is a significant part of the wedding planning process for any bride-to-be. It can be a tricky, frustrating and tiring process, especially if you don't know what you're looking for. The most important thing is to choose a dress that suits your body shape and flatters your figure. Whether you have an hourglass figure, a ballerina's figure or a petite frame, there are styles that will accentuate your best features. From fit-and-flare to princess-style dresses, the options are endless. It's also a good idea to keep an open mind and try on different styles, as you may be surprised by what works for you.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Body shape | Hourglass, ballerina, petite, curvy, undefined waist, fuller hips |
| Neckline | Halter, plunging V-neckline, high, ruched strapless, lace-trimmed |
| Style | Princess, ball gown, empire line, sheath, fit-and-flare, mermaid |
| Details | Delicate embroidery, beading, layers, crystals, tulle, satin, sequins |
| Silhouette | A-line, natural waist, empire waist |
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What You'll Learn
Dressing for your body type
The wedding dress you choose should be something you feel comfortable and beautiful in. It should accentuate your best features and complement your body type. Here is a guide to help you choose a wedding dress that flatters your figure:
Hourglass figure
An hourglass figure is characterised by a well-defined waist, with the hips and shoulders being relatively equal in size. To accentuate your silhouette, opt for a fitted style that highlights your curves. Trumpet-style, fit-and-flare, or mermaid wedding dresses are popular choices for this body type. Gowns with plunging V-necklines, wrap dresses, and strapless designs also beautifully complement an hourglass figure. Fitted or mermaid dresses can showcase your curves, while stretchy and form-fitting fabrics, such as satin or silk, can flatter your figure by hugging your curves in all the right places.
Apple-shaped body
If you have an apple-shaped body, your mid-section is typically fuller, with the upper torso being larger than the hips. Wedding dresses that create a more defined waistline are ideal for this body type. Mermaid-style dresses that contour the body at the bodice, waist, and hips, and then flare out at the knees, can be a great choice.
Pear-shaped body
A pear-shaped body is defined by wider hips and a smaller upper torso. To balance out your proportions, consider a gown that highlights your décolletage, such as a ball gown with a fitted bodice or a long-sleeved dress with intricate detailing. A-line gowns can also complement a pear-shaped figure by creating a balanced silhouette and enhancing the waistline.
Petite body
For petite body types, the key is to elongate your figure and avoid being overwhelmed by the gown. Sheath or A-line dresses with a streamlined silhouette can give the illusion of height. An open back can also elongate your shape, while an empire waist provides a structured décolletage for an elegant and romantic look. Delicate details, a clean, modern silhouette, and minimal embellishments can also beautifully celebrate your body type.
Rectangular body
A rectangular body type is characterised by a straight silhouette, with the bust, waist, and hips being similar in size. If you have this body type, consider a wedding dress that adds curves and definition to your frame. An empire-style dress with a high waistline can gently skim over your midsection, creating a lengthening effect, while the flare of an A-line gown can provide a more defined waistline and balance to your silhouette.
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Princess-style dresses
Princess-style wedding dresses are usually very tight at the top and extra full at the bottom, with a long train. They are often decorated with lace and sequins, with the shinier dresses being considered better. They are also sometimes made from satin or silk for a chic, sleek, yet dramatic look. This style of dress is said to disguise fuller hips and put the focus on your upper body, balancing your torso and bust.
If you're looking for a princess-style dress, you may want to consider a ball gown with a fitted bodice and a full skirt, which will create the illusion of curves. Delicate embroidery and beading can also create a more curvy silhouette.
For a truly princess-like experience, you could opt for a gown with a long train that trails behind you as you walk down the aisle. Look for a dress with loads of lace and eye-catching details. If you want something chic and sleek but still dramatic, then opt for satin or silk as your fabric of choice.
There are no seasonal limitations to wearing a princess wedding dress, so you can buy it at any time. However, it's important to keep in mind that these dresses often take around 3-12 weeks to be crafted, so it's best to plan ahead and reach out to specialists with your queries.
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Ballgowns
When it comes to fabric, there are many options to choose from. You can opt for intricately embellished lace, or strikingly simple satin. Meticulously hand-sewn embroidery, beading, and sequins especially suit a princess-inspired ballgown look. For an extra touch of glamour, consider a glittery fabric or one adorned with rhinestones. If you're looking for something more understated, soft satin or tulle is a beautiful choice.
If you're considering a ballgown for your wedding dress, it's important to consult with a personal bridal stylist to discover the best variation of this silhouette for your body and bridal aesthetic. With so many options available, you're sure to find the perfect ballgown to make you feel like a princess on your big day.
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Empire waistlines
An empire waistline wedding dress is a style that suits and flatters many brides. It is a style that is both vintage and modern, with a royal and deluxe silhouette. The waistline falls higher than the natural waist, starting under the chest or somewhere between the waist and chest. This style highlights the smallest part of your body, creating an hourglass shape.
Empire waist gowns are a great way to celebrate your special day, with a bohemian look that suits many settings, from the beach to a flower garden. They are a versatile style, working well with a range of fabrics, from dense to light and airy, such as tulle. They can be made from a variety of materials, including chiffon, crinkle beaded chiffon, tulle, lace, banded lace, and traditional floral lace.
The empire waistline is a style that suits every body type, including plus-size ladies. It can be designed with short puff sleeves or long lacy ones, with a corset boning and a sheath skirt, or a tight top and a flared skirt. For a more form-fitting silhouette, you can choose sheath and short halter styles with keyhole cutouts or plunging V-necklines.
Empire waist bridal gowns emphasise the waistline and create an elegant, classic look without being too revealing. They are a great choice for brides who want to dance and twirl the night away without feeling restricted by tight-fitting fabrics and corsets. This style of dress is a charming and elegant choice for any bride.
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Fit-and-flare styles
The fit-and-flare style is a classic wedding dress silhouette that showcases the bride's figure. This style is characterised by a fitted bodice that hugs the body, highlighting the waist, and a flared skirt that adds movement and drama to the look. Fit-and-flare styles are often referred to as mermaid dresses, emphasising the curves and creating a stunning, romantic silhouette.
This style is a wonderful choice for brides who want to accentuate their natural curves and create a striking, sensual look. Fit-and-flare gowns are known for their versatility, with various designs available to suit different tastes and themes. Whether you envision a classic or modern bridal style, this silhouette can be tailored to your unique vision.
For a timeless look, consider a fit-and-flare gown with long lace sleeves and luxurious pearl Mikado. This style exudes elegance and sophistication, creating a memorable bridal appearance. Alternatively, modern brides might opt for a gown with a detachable glitter tulle train and an illusion lace neckline or back, adding a touch of glamour and whimsy to the ensemble.
When choosing a fit-and-flare gown, it's important to consider the level of comfort and ease of movement. While this style is known for its figure-hugging appeal, ensuring a proper fit and allowing for breathability will ensure you can move and celebrate with ease on your special day.
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Frequently asked questions
Think about any particular parts of your body you want to accentuate. For example, if you want to show off your back, try dresses with a low cut or open back. If you want to highlight your collarbones, go for a strapless gown. You can also consider the shape of the dress, such as ball gowns, A-line dresses, or mermaid styles.
Start by getting inspired by bridal magazines, Pinterest, or social media. Create a mood board of wedding attire that you love and choose three specific words to describe your dream bridal style, such as "classic", vintage, or "romantic". You can also think about the overall vibe and formality of your wedding. If traditional white dresses don't resonate with your personality, don't be afraid to choose a different colour, such as blue or pink.
Explore the different fabric options available, such as crepe, and choose one that aligns with your personal style and wedding theme. Consider the various necklines, such as V-neck, scoop, or strapless, and try on different styles to determine what flatters your body.
It is recommended that you purchase your wedding dress eight to nine months before your wedding. This will give you ample time to make a decision and account for any alterations that may be needed.
