When it comes to shopping for a wedding dress, sizes and shapes and fits can get all the more confusing. We’re here to let you know that, no matter your size and shape, there’s a wedding dress out there for everyone, along with many tips and tricks to help you find the dress that truly fits you best.
Everyone has their own unique shape, and you may fit into one or more of the generalized body types that we use for reference. So read on to find out what to look for and what to avoid for all of your unique features!
Athletic Slim Figure:
If you have a straight torso with similar-sized bust, waist and hips, then you might have an athletically-slim figure. If you want to create the illusion of hips with a greater contrast, consider gowns with fuller skirts, such as a ballgown. Consider a Sheath style dress that gently hugs what you’ve got if you simply want to enhance your natural figure. Styles to avoid include A-lines, especially if you’re slimmer up top.
Petite Figure:
If you’re both slim and under five feet, you don’t have to rely on high heels if you want a boost in height. Long, relatively simple styles like Sheath or Trumpet dresses add the illusion of height, and an Empire waist can both flatter and add to the illusion. The key is to not let voluminous dresses like ball-gowns overpower your smaller figure by sticking with something fairly simple and fitted.
Hourglass Figure:
Do you have a defined waist with similar bust and hip measurements? The a Trumpet, Mermaid or Fishtail gown are some of the most flattering options to bring out your natural curves.
Full Figure:
If you’ve got a full figure, you have the option to either accentuate your curves, best done with strategic pleats and textures such as ruching, or go for a slimming illusion, in which case Scoop and V-Necks are great for capturing attention to keep other areas understated.
Pear Figure:
For ladies with a distinct waist and a larger hip than bust ratio, consider a Ball Gown style to create the illusion of a reduced lower area. An A-Line gown with a gradually increasing skirt can also be very flattering. The only styles to avoid are Trumpet, Mermaid and Sheath gowns.
Apple Figure:
Do you have a full-figured bust, waist and hip area? If so, the key for you is to find the right neckline and look for wider skirts with a strategic transition, while avoiding Sheath gown styles. The perfect style to accentuate your curves while hiding “problem” areas would be an empire waist paired with a defined, sweetheart neckline.
The most important thing to keep in mind when determining what style is “right” for you comes down to highlighting what you love about yourself. Although we have tips and tricks for an array of body-types, our best and most common advice is to always know what you feel comfortable with and when you try on a gown that makes you feel gorgeous, that’s the dress!
Schedule an appointment with us to start the process of finding your dream dress!