Finding the right wedding dress is one of the most important tasks for brides-to-be. The dress is more than just an outfit; it’s a reflection of your style and the centrepiece of your special day. This guide will help you navigate the journey of selecting a gown that suits your body type, accentuating your best features while allowing you to feel comfortable and confident. From hiding your hips to flaunting your height, we’ll break down the styles that work best for different body types.
Let’s get straight to the point
Choosing the right wedding dress for your body type is key to feeling confident and comfortable on your big day. For pear-shaped bodies, A-line dresses balance wider hips; fuller busts benefit from supportive V-necklines, while smaller busts can opt for embellished bodices. Brides aiming to elongate their frame should choose dresses with vertical details, and tall brides can showcase their height with ankle-length or ball gowns. Popular silhouettes like A-line, empire waist, sheath, ball gowns, and mermaid dresses each flatter different figures. Understanding bridal sizing, scheduling alterations, and prioritizing comfort are essential for the perfect fit. Confidence is your best accessory!
Understanding Your Body Shape
1. Choosing Dresses for Pear-Shaped Figures
Women with pear-shaped bodies typically have wider hips and a narrower waist. When selecting a wedding dress, focus on balancing your silhouette by drawing attention away from the hips.
Tips:
- Flared Pants or Skirts: A-line dresses with a gradual flare from the waist can help conceal larger hips.
- Defined Waistlines: Opt for dresses that define the waist, such as A-line or empire waist styles.
- Avoid Tight-Fitting Dresses: Body-hugging styles may accentuate the hips more than desired.
2. Dressing for Full Busts
Women with fuller busts need wedding dresses that offer adequate support while keeping everything in place. Finding the right neckline is key to achieving balance and avoiding discomfort.
Suggestions:
- V-Neck or Sweetheart Necklines: These styles elongate the neckline and provide support.
- Illusion Necklines: This style offers the coverage of a high neck while still appearing light and elegant.
- Avoid Low-Back Dresses: Dresses with low backs may not provide enough support.
3. Dressing for Smaller Busts
If you have a smaller bust, you can use certain styles and designs to enhance your upper body and create the illusion of more volume.
Best Choices:
- Lower Necklines: Opt for plunging necklines that draw attention to the chest area.
- Detailed Bodices: Look for dresses with embellishments like lace or beading around the bust to add dimension.
- Separate Pieces: Two-piece dresses can help create the illusion of a fuller chest by defining the waistline and drawing the eye upward.
4. Lengthening Your Frame
Brides looking to appear taller should focus on elongating the figure with certain dress styles and accessories.
Recommended Styles:
- Vertical Details: Dresses with vertical pleats or slits can create the illusion of length.
- High Necklines: These draw attention to the upper body and elongate your overall appearance.
- Pantsuits: A chic pantsuit with vertical seams can add height to your silhouette.
5. Showing Off Your Height
If you’re tall and want to show off your stature, there are a few dress styles that can highlight your height without overwhelming your frame.
Top Picks:
- Ankle-Length Hemlines: A dress that stops at or above the ankle showcases your legs and adds a modern twist.
- Ball Gowns: Tall brides can pull off voluminous ball gowns without being overwhelmed by fabric.
6. Concealing Your Arms
If you’re looking to cover your arms on your wedding day, there are plenty of elegant ways to do so.
What to Wear:
- Illusion Fabrics: Fabrics like tulle or lace can provide coverage while maintaining a light and elegant look.
- Long Sleeves: Opt for long, fitted sleeves with delicate lace details.
Popular Wedding Dress Silhouettes
A-Line and Princess Silhouettes
The A-line silhouette is one of the most universally flattering wedding dress shapes. It features a fitted bodice that flares out from the waist, creating an elegant and timeless look. The princess cut is a variation of the A-line, with vertical seams that elongate the figure.
Why It Works:
- Versatile Shape: Suitable for almost every body type, especially those looking to conceal wider hips or create the illusion of curves.
- Lengthening Effect: The princess cut, with its vertical seams, creates a visually elongated shape.
Empire Waist Dresses
Empire dresses have a high waistline that sits just below the bust, with the rest of the dress flowing downward. This style exudes a romantic, ethereal quality and is ideal for certain body types.
Best for:
- Smaller Busts: Empire dresses draw attention to the bust while offering more coverage than a typical low neckline.
- Pregnant Brides: This style is forgiving around the waist and midsection, making it a comfortable choice for expecting brides.
Sheath/Column Dresses
A sheath dress, also known as a column dress, is a sleek, slim-fitting gown that follows the body’s natural lines. It is a great option for brides with lean or petite frames.
Who It Suits:
- Slim and Petite Brides: The sheath style elongates the figure and is perfect for brides with a slimmer silhouette.
- Minimalistic Look: This style is ideal for those wanting a simple, clean line with minimal fabric.
Ball Gown
For those dreaming of a fairy-tale wedding, the ball gown offers the classic bridal look. It features a fitted bodice and a voluminous skirt that flares out dramatically from the waist.
Best for:
- Tall and Pear-Shaped Brides: The ball gown balances out a pear-shaped figure by emphasising the waist and providing fullness at the bottom.
- Creating an Hourglass Shape: The fitted bodice highlights the waist, giving the illusion of a balanced hourglass figure.
Mermaid Dress
The mermaid dress is fitted from the bust to the knees, then flares out dramatically. This silhouette is known for its figure-hugging design, making it a popular choice for brides looking to showcase their curves.
Who It Flatters:
- Curvy Brides: The mermaid silhouette accentuates curves in a flattering way.
- Slim and Petite Brides: Although curvy brides can wear it, the mermaid dress can also add definition to slimmer figures.
Wedding Dress Size and Fittings
Understanding Bridal Sizing
One of the most challenging aspects of finding the perfect wedding dress is understanding bridal sizing. Bridal sizes often differ significantly from everyday clothing sizes, and each designer has their own sizing chart.
Steps to Take:
- Get Professionally Measured: Ensure you are measured by a professional using a vinyl measuring tape to avoid stretching inaccuracies.
- Consult the Size Chart: Always refer to the designer’s size chart for accurate measurements.
- Be Honest About Your Weight: If you plan to lose weight before the wedding, choose a dress that fits your current size, as alterations can be made later.
Alterations and Final Fittings
Most brides will need alterations to ensure their dress fits perfectly. This process can take several weeks, so it’s essential to plan ahead.
Key Considerations:
- Schedule Fittings Early: Begin alterations as early as six weeks before the wedding to allow enough time for adjustments.
- Bring Your Undergarments and Shoes: To get the best fit, wear the same shoes and undergarments you plan to use on your wedding day during your fitting.
- Err on the Side of Larger Sizes: It’s easier to take a dress in than to let it out, so opt for a slightly larger size if you’re unsure.
Additional Tips for Finding the Perfect Dress
1. Confidence is Key
Regardless of your body shape or size, confidence is the most important accessory you can wear. Choose a dress that makes you feel comfortable and confident on your big day.
2. Prioritise Comfort
While it’s essential to look stunning, comfort should not be sacrificed. Make sure you can move easily, sit, and dance in your dress without feeling restricted.
3. Don’t Forget Your Shoes
The right shoes can elevate your look, but they also need to be practical. Ensure your shoes are comfortable enough to wear throughout the entire day, especially during the reception when you’ll be dancing.
4. Trust the Experts
Bridal consultants are there to help. Trust their expertise and be open to trying on different styles, even if they’re outside your initial vision.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect wedding dress is about more than just following trends; it’s about selecting a gown that complements your unique body type and makes you feel extraordinary. From A-line dresses that flatter most figures to mermaid gowns that celebrate curves, there’s a perfect dress for every bride. Take your time, try on a variety of styles, and don’t be afraid to seek professional advice. Ultimately, the goal is to feel like the best version of yourself on your special day, confident and radiant in a dress that reflects your beauty and personality.
FAQs About Wedding Dress
How Much Is a Wedding Dress on Average?
While the national average cost of a wedding dress is $1,631 (including alterations), dress prices are based on various factors and generally range from $500 to $4,000. By shopping at large retailers and getting a machine-made gown, you can easily land on the lower end of the spectrum.
How Many Wedding Dresses Should You Try On?
Most brides try on between four and seven gowns, said DeMarco, and shouldn’t try on more than 10, because it can lead to confusion. Often, a bride is trying on dress after dress because she’s just not ready to end the shopping experience and make a real commitment.
How Do You Decide on a Wedding Dress?
- Ask your entourage. They’re already well acquainted with your everyday style and wedding dress wish list.
- Get an expert opinion.
- Picture your whole look.
- Trust your instincts.
- List the pros and cons.
- Look to the future.
- Revisit each style.
- Go with your gut.
Should You Size up or Down in Wedding Dress?
Designers and retailers alike want you to feel beautiful! Unfortunately, based on European bridal sizing, many women are required to wear up to two sizes larger than their American size. So, don’t stress if your normal size seems snug in a wedding gown or bridesmaid dress.
Can You Lose Weight After Buying Wedding Dress?
What happens if you’re already losing weight after buying your wedding dress? If you’re planning on losing weight after you’ve purchased your dress, it’s not an issue. Even if you lose weight without trying! Given the time and space to plan ahead, we can make alterations that match your body shape.
