Rhiannon Hendricks
Choosing a wedding dress that suits your body type can be a daunting task. For brides with an hourglass figure, there are many options to choose from that will flatter your curves and make you feel confident. Hourglass figures are characterised by a well-defined waist and shoulders and hips that are roughly the same size. Mermaid, trumpet, ballgown, A-line, sheath, and empire silhouettes are all styles that can complement an hourglass figure. Sweetheart and deep V-neck necklines can also draw attention to the torso and highlight the waist. Ultimately, the best wedding dress for an hourglass figure is one that makes the wearer feel beautiful and confident.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Neckline | Sweetheart, Deep V-neck, Off-the-shoulder |
| Silhouette | Mermaid, Trumpet, Fit-and-flare, A-line, Sheath, Empire, Ballgown |
| Details | Lace, Rhinestones, Sparkles, 3D floral lace, Butterfly applique |
| Fabric | Mikado, Satin, Crepe, Chiffon |
| Sleeve Style | Long transparent sleeves |
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What You'll Learn
Mermaid, trumpet, and sheath dresses
Mermaid wedding dresses are known for their curve-enhancing, form-fitting style. The bodice is fitted, with the skirt flaring out at or below the knee. This creates a striking hourglass figure, playing up your natural curves. Mermaid dresses are often snug from the bust down to the hips, with a longer fitted bodice to emphasise your waist.
Trumpet dresses are similar to the mermaid style, but with a more subtle flare that begins mid-thigh. This silhouette is ideal for brides who want to flaunt their curves while maintaining a more understated look. Trumpet gowns are also a good choice if you're looking for a toned-down version of the mermaid style with more movability.
Sheath dresses, also known as column dresses, offer a sleek and minimalistic look. They feature a slim, straight-line shape that falls from the neckline to the hem. This style can elongate your figure and create the illusion of height, making it a flattering option for petite brides. Sheath dresses are also versatile and comfortable, allowing you to showcase your strong features while maintaining a simple and elegant aesthetic.
When choosing between these styles, consider your personal preference for the level of drama and detail, as well as your comfort and ease of movement. Ultimately, the right wedding dress will be the one that makes you feel confident and beautiful on your special day.
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Sweetheart and V-neck necklines
For brides with an hourglass figure, a wedding dress that accentuates the silhouette and highlights the waistline is ideal. Trumpet, mermaid, ballgown, A-line, sheath, and empire silhouettes are all said to complement this body type.
When it comes to necklines, a sweetheart or a V-neck style can beautifully flatter an hourglass figure. Here's a more detailed look at these two neckline options:
Sweetheart Neckline
The sweetheart neckline is universally flattering and complements a variety of body types, including the hourglass figure. This neckline is known for its distinctive shape that resembles the top of a heart, with a gentle curve in the centre. It accentuates the décolletage, offering a soft, feminine look. Sweetheart necklines can be paired with various silhouettes, from figure-hugging mermaid styles to grand ball gowns. They work well with different fabrics, from soft, fluid materials like chiffon or satin to embellished fabrics and intricate laces. This neckline is a classic choice that can also be modern or slightly daring, depending on the design elements.
V-neck Neckline
The V-neck neckline is a versatile choice that suits a range of body types, including the hourglass figure. For hourglass-shaped brides with relatively broad shoulders, a V-neck can help draw the eye down, making the shoulders and bust appear narrower. This neckline can be paired with wider straps or sleeves to provide coverage and balance to the overall look. V-necks can be found in various silhouettes and can be customised to suit the bride's unique style and preferences.
Both sweetheart and V-neck necklines offer timeless and elegant options for brides with hourglass figures, providing a flattering and versatile base for designing the perfect wedding gown.
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Fit-and-flare silhouettes
For brides with an hourglass figure, a fit-and-flare wedding dress can be a beautiful choice that accentuates your curves without restricting movement. This style features a fitted bodice that extends at or below the hips before gradually flaring out towards the hem of the skirt. The gradual flare is what sets this silhouette apart from the mermaid and trumpet styles, which have more dramatic flares.
Fit-and-flare gowns are ideal for highlighting the curves of an hourglass figure while providing comfort and ease of movement. The fitted bodice accentuates the waist, which is the defining characteristic of an hourglass shape, while the gradual flare of the skirt adds balance to the hips, creating a flattering silhouette. This style also elongates the legs, further enhancing the proportionate silhouette of the hourglass figure.
When choosing a fit-and-flare wedding dress, consider selecting a design with a higher angle of flare to achieve more volume in the skirt. This will create a dramatic effect while still maintaining the elegance and movability of the fit-and-flare silhouette. The key to styling an hourglass figure is to maintain the natural balance and proportion of the silhouette, so ensure that the gown gently skims over your curves and highlights your waist.
To further accentuate your waist, consider adding a belt to your fit-and-flare wedding dress. A belt cinched at the waist can emphasise your narrowest point and create a more defined silhouette. Additionally, opt for lightweight and form-fitting fabrics that complement your shape by hugging your curves and highlighting your silhouette. Avoid excessive layering, distracting patterns, and overly flared styles, as these can obscure your natural hourglass shape.
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Princess and ballgown styles
Princess-style wedding dresses, also known as fit-and-flare, are characterised by a fitted bodice that extends at or below the hips and then gradually flares out toward the hem of the skirt. This style is perfect for brides who want to accentuate their curves without restricting their movement. The flare of the skirt also adds volume, creating a dramatic and sweeping look.
Ballgown styles, on the other hand, feature a fitted bodice with a dramatic, full skirt. This silhouette is ideal for brides who want to make a grand entrance and emphasise their waistline. The fitted bodice of a ballgown dress draws attention upwards, while the full skirt creates a stunning contrast, further defining the waist. This style is particularly flattering for hourglass figures as it highlights the narrow waist and elegant curves while adding a sense of glamour and drama.
When choosing a princess or ballgown style, consider the fabric and cut to ensure it flatters your figure. Stiff, heavy fabrics and very wide cuts should be avoided as they can appear bulky and hide your curves. Instead, opt for close-fitting styles that are not too tight, with an accentuated waist, to elegantly showcase your hourglass shape.
Additionally, consider the neckline and skirt length to create the desired effect. A deep V-shaped neckline can enhance the hourglass effect, highlighting toned arms and drawing attention to the bust. As for the skirt, both princess and ballgown styles typically fall between the knee and the ankle, creating a sleek and elegant silhouette.
Overall, princess and ballgown styles can be excellent choices for brides with hourglass figures, emphasising their curves and creating a striking, romantic look.
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Petite hourglass options
If you're petite with an hourglass figure, there are several wedding dress styles that can help elongate your figure while accentuating your curves.
A trumpet-style dress is a great option for petite brides with an hourglass figure. Trumpet dresses are similar to mermaid dresses but flare out from a higher angle, creating a subtle yet elegant finish that emphasises your natural waistline. Fit-and-flare dresses are another option that will help elongate your legs and show off your natural curves. Just make sure to choose one of moderate length so as not to overwhelm your petite frame.
A-line dresses are universally flattering and a great choice for petite hourglass figures as the fitted bodice creates a gentle A shape that flares out gradually from the waistline, providing a contrasted effect that emphasises your upper body. Sheath dresses are another option for petite hourglass figures, with their simple and streamlined silhouette that doesn't overwhelm the petite body frame.
Empire waist dresses are another style that elongates the body, making them a good choice for petite brides. With a long skirt that starts just below the chest, this style is also a good option for those who want to draw attention to their bust.
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Frequently asked questions
Wedding dresses that flatter an hourglass figure include mermaid, ballgown, A-line, sheath, and empire styles. Hourglass wedding dresses usually have a fitted waist and flare out at the hips. Trumpet and fit-and-flare styles also complement an hourglass figure by hugging your curves and flaring out at the bottom.
Sweetheart, off-the-shoulder, and deep V-neck necklines are all great choices for an hourglass figure. Sweetheart necklines accentuate your upper body, while off-the-shoulder styles delicately frame your décolletage. Deep V-neck dresses draw attention to the torso, highlighting your waist.
Luxurious fabrics such as Mikado, mute satin, crepe, chiffon, and lace are suitable for an hourglass wedding dress. Sparkles, diamonds, 3D floral lace, and butterfly applique can add intricate details and a unique touch. A rhinestone belt can also enhance the waistline of an hourglass figure.
Yes, you may want to consider a plunging V-neckline to add shape, especially if you have a smaller bust. Corseted gowns can also add padding and create a well-defined waistline, enhancing the hourglass silhouette. If you prefer a relaxed fit, sheath dresses highlight the upper torso while providing a contrasted effect with a flowing skirt.
