Rhiannon Hendricks
Choosing a wedding dress is an exciting part of wedding planning, but with so many styles available, it can be challenging to know where to start. The key to feeling confident in your wedding dress is to choose a style that suits your body type and personality. Whether you're a boho bride, a traditional bride, or somewhere in between, there's a style out there that will make you feel amazing. To narrow down the options, it's a good idea to take a bridal style quiz or get measured by a bridal stylist to determine your body type. Once you have a better idea of what you're looking for, you can try on a few different styles to find the perfect dress for your big day.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Body type | Hourglass, Tall and slender, Petite |
| Dress style | Fit-and-flare, Mermaid, Sheath, A-line, Open back, Layers, Illusion details |
| Personality | Boho, Traditional |
| Budget | Veil, Headpiece, Jewellery, Shoes, Undergarments, Alterations |
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What You'll Learn
Dressing for your body type
The first step to choosing a wedding dress is to know and dress for your body type. This will help you feel confident and beautiful on your wedding day. Here is a guide to help you choose the right dress for your body type:
Hourglass body type
If you have an hourglass body type, you typically have balanced proportions between the bust and hips, with a smaller waist. To showcase your curves, opt for a dress that cinches at the waist. A fitted bodice or a mermaid-style skirt will hug your curves and emphasise your narrow waist. A-line dresses, trumpet gowns, and fit-and-flare silhouettes are also flattering choices for hourglass figures as they emphasise your curves while offering a balanced look. Gowns with plunging V-necklines, wrap dresses, and strapless gowns are also fabulous options for this body type.
Pear body type
If you have a pear body shape, you tend to have hips that are wider than your bust, with a defined waist. Look for dresses that are more fitted to your shape, such as a sleek silhouette or a fishtail/mermaid dress. Sleeved dresses can also help balance out your smaller shoulders with your wider hips. Avoid empire dress styles as they may hide your dainty figure and create the illusion of a larger size.
Oval or apple body type
The oval or apple body type is characterised by a larger bust, waist, and torso, with narrower hips and slender legs and arms. To create a flattering and balanced look, consider styles that elongate your body and create a longer torso. Draped or ruched details around the neckline can add interest and create a flattering focal point. Avoid halter or high-neck gowns as they can overload your bustline and give less definition to your figure.
Inverted triangle body type
If you have an inverted triangle body type, you have broader shoulders and a narrower waist and hips. To achieve a balanced look, opt for styles that create fullness at the bottom, complementing your broader shoulders. Symmetrical or V-neck styles work well, and fuller straps and sleeves can flatter your figure and make your shoulders appear more subtle. Details such as lace or embellishments can also help you appear more fully balanced.
Tall and slender body type
If you are tall and slender, consider a sheath gown to play up your natural height. A flowy A-line gown can also add romance to your shape. To accentuate your height and long legs, look for gowns with a slit in the skirt.
Petite body type
For petite brides, an open back can help elongate your shape. A-line gowns and empire silhouettes are also flattering choices as they create a slimming effect and make you look taller. Ball-gown wedding dresses can complement most body types, but petite brides may want to avoid this style as it can overpower a small frame.
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Wedding dress styles for petite brides
If you're a petite bride, there are a few things to consider when choosing a wedding dress style that will make you look and feel your best. While being petite doesn't necessarily mean being skinny, most wedding dresses aren't designed with petite women in mind and may require alterations to achieve the perfect fit.
To create the illusion of length, it's recommended that petite brides opt for dresses with a simpler, more streamlined silhouette. A sheath or column-style dress, for example, creates a sleek, vertical line from the shoulders to the hips, elongating your figure. Trumpet and mermaid styles are also flattering for petite brides, emphasising the bust and hips while making the legs look longer, especially when paired with a waistline higher than your natural waist. If you're set on a ball gown or princess-style dress, consider choosing one with vertical pleats on the skirt to create a lengthening effect.
When it comes to the bodice, high-waisted designs, such as an empire waist, can help to lengthen your legs and make you appear taller. If you have a smaller bust, a straight, strapless neckline can be a flattering choice, showcasing your décolletage and chest. A plunging V-neck can also be a sexy and alluring option for petite brides with small busts. For those who want to enhance their bust, a corset-style dress with boning can provide structure and shape, creating a push-up effect.
In terms of veils and hair, it's important to avoid overwhelming your frame. Instead of a chapel-length veil, opt for something shorter, like a birdcage veil, to complement your petite stature. Consider your haircut and hairstyle as well, as certain styles can add the appearance of height. Lastly, don't forget the simplest way to boost your height: a pair of high heels.
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Bridal gowns for tall brides
Wedding dresses are typically made for brides who are between 5'9" and 6' tall. However, some brands offer extra-long wedding gowns specifically designed for taller brides.
If you're a tall bride-to-be, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your wedding dress. First, consider the silhouette that best suits your body shape. A-line wedding dresses, for instance, are perfect for taller brides as they flatter any shape. If you want to appear shorter, a ball gown with a lower, dropped waistline can create that illusion.
You can also draw attention to your face and shoulders with a halter neckline, which can be a flattering option for various body types. A deep V-neckline is another option that works well with intricate lace dresses, adding a dramatic touch to your bridal look.
When trying on gowns, remember to bring the shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day or a pair with a similar height and style. This will ensure that your dress is the right length and accommodate your shoes comfortably.
Lastly, don't be afraid to make alterations to your dress. Adjustments can make all the difference in achieving the perfect fit and making your dream gown even more luxurious.
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Hourglass figure wedding dresses
An hourglass figure is a coveted body shape, as many silhouettes complement it, giving women with this shape a wide range of gown options to try! The key to choosing the right wedding dress to accentuate your best features is understanding your body type and its unique proportions.
For hourglass-shaped brides, a fitted style is a great way to highlight your curves. Trumpet, mermaid, and fit-and-flare silhouettes are popular styles for those with an hourglass figure. Trumpet and mermaid styles hug your curves and flare out at the bottom for an elegant silhouette. Fit-and-flare gowns are similar, but the bottom of the gown flows outwards from a higher angle, achieving more volume. A ball gown style, especially a strapless version, is another option that will highlight your waist and allow you to experiment with neck jewellery and high hairstyles. If you want to de-emphasize your curves, a ball gown can also create a striking profile by contrasting your fitted corset with a dramatic skirt.
To visually elongate your figure, choose dresses with vertical lines or details like vertical lace patterns or princess (vertical) seams. A gown that flows smoothly from the bust to the hips can also help you achieve this effect. While an hourglass figure can pull off many styles, some silhouettes work better than others. Avoid dresses that have a straight, narrow cut, as these can conceal your curves and make you appear boxy.
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Traditional vs. boho wedding dresses
Traditional wedding dresses are typically sleek and elegant, with simple silhouettes and classic details. They often feature lace, whether it's a subtle touch or a full lace overlay, creating a timeless and romantic look. For a church ceremony, a traditional dress can match the grandeur of the venue with a full skirt and elegant lace details.
On the other hand, boho wedding dresses embrace a free-spirited, whimsical, and unique style. Boho brides often opt for non-traditional elements, such as colourful dresses, nature-inspired details, and unconventional accessories. Boho gowns are known for their flowing silhouettes, graphic laces, and vintage-inspired touches. They can range from super laid-back and comfortable to intricately detailed with ruffles and statement sleeves. Boho dresses are often adorned with floral lace, botanical motifs, and fringe details, reflecting the bride's adventurous spirit and love for nature.
The choice between traditional and boho styles depends on the bride's personal taste and the wedding venue. Traditional dresses lean towards classic elegance and timeless details, while boho dresses celebrate unique expressions and a break from convention.
If you're leaning towards a traditional look but want to incorporate some boho elements, you can opt for a dress with subtle bohemian touches, such as lace sleeves or a flowing skirt. This blend of styles can be perfect for an outdoor or destination wedding, giving you the best of both worlds.
Ultimately, the decision is a personal one, and there is no right or wrong answer. Whether you choose a traditional or boho dress, it should reflect your unique style and make you feel confident and beautiful on your special day.
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Frequently asked questions
Gowns with plunging V-necklines, wrap dresses, and strapless gowns are fabulous choices for hourglass figures. Fit-and-flare and mermaid wedding dresses will also look stunning.
A sheath gown will play up your natural height. A flowy A-line gown can also add some romance to your shape. Consider a gown with a slit in the skirt to accentuate your height and long legs.
Consider an open back to elongate your shape.
Your bridal stylist can help you determine your body type. Make sure to book an appointment at an authorised retailer to get measured. You can also ask a friend or family member to help you take measurements.
Are you a boho bride or a traditional bride? Be true to yourself and you’ll discover a wedding style that perfectly matches your personality.
