Dress shapes for your shape
Many brides feel overwhelmed when shopping for their gowns. For most, this is only the second time (after prom or homecoming) when they have worn a formal gown. Buying a bridal gown is a complicated purchase, and should not be approached in the same way one might shop for other apparel. A bride should come to the process with few pre-conceived notions, and concentrate not on the latest trend, but on a dress that flatters her unique shape.
Take a look at the variety of dress shapes available, to get an idea for the types of bodies that would be suited by each.
Ballgown Silhouette
What is it? Characterized by a full skirt, this style is often referred to as a fairy-tale or Cinderella-style dress.
Who should wear it: Average-height to tall brides; pear-shaped women who would like to hide their hips.
Who should avoid it: This style could overwhelm a petite bride
Princess Line/A-line Silhouette
What is it? A dress with a skirt that flares over the hips without hugging them, in a triangle or "A" shape.
Who should wear it: This style is universally flattering, since it can add curves to boyish figures, de-emphasize thicker waists and hips, and complement a curvy shape without adding extra bulk.
Who should avoid it: No one.
Sheath
What is it? Features a figure-hugging silhouette with a defined waist (no belt or waistband).
Who should wear it? Thin, tall, well-toned figures.
Who should avoid it? Those with large hips and thick waists
Trumpet Silhouette
What is it? A silhouette that follows the body's curves and flares at or above the knee.
Who should wear it: Those who would like to show off a curvy figure
Who should avoid it? Boyish shapes and those who would like to de-emphasize their hips.
Bias Cut
What is it? Here, there is no defined waist. Fabric is cut to cling to one's curves and flare gently away.
Who should wear it? Well-toned figures
Who should avoid it? Those looking to hide bulges, not show them off.
Empire Waistline
What is it: A high-waisted dress that with a skirt flowing just below the bust line
Who should wear it? Those wanting to de-emphasize thicker waists, those wanting to make a small bust look larger (especially when the bodice is decorated with special trim or color) and petite brides who wish to look taller
Who should avoid it? Those wishing to de-emphasize a large bust
Other tips:
Strapless or no?
Strapless is a popular style, but one that's difficult to fit. Take care with your seamstress that the dress will not slip down as you wear it. You may need to purchase a special corset or have one made to provide the dress the support it needs to stay where it needs to throughout your special day. Be careful, too, to tone your arms and back - the areas most on display in this style.
Waist not, want not
Basque Waistline
This waistline rides low on the hips, dipping down to a point in the front. For taller brides, it helps to provide a nice hourglass figure. Petite brides need to be a little cautious: If the waistline rides too low, it could make them appear shorter. Some of the newer styles now have the waistline located higher, which works better for petite sizes.
Straight-Across Waistline
These cuts work well on well-toned and hourglass figures. Brides with thicker waistlines may wish to look at another style. Also, where this waistline hits is very important. Make sure it doesn't ride too low, as this can make a bride appear shorter or make it appear as if the bride has larger hips.
