We see it all the time–brides come in asking for a specific silhouette and end up leaving with the complete opposite! Why is that? If you haven’t tried on gowns before, you might not know what looks good on you and you’ll be surprised by what does! As bridal consultants, we are experts on our inventory and knowing what styles are going to help you feel confident and beautiful. Here are some tips for shopping for your specific body shape, but keep in mind, these are only guidelines to help you know a good place to start. The most important thing is that you feel beautiful and absolutely like the best version of yourself on your wedding day!
Pear: If you are pear-shaped, you likely have a smaller bust and narrow shoulders. Your waist is defined and you have full hips!
Dos: Try an A-line silhouette with a defined waist to balance out your proportions.
Draw attention upward by using details on the bodice like 3D applique, having a statement sleeve, or a nice open neckline like an off-shoulder sleeve.
Don'ts: Avoid drop-waist gowns or anything that has a seam or detail right at the widest part of your hips.
Hourglass: If you have a fuller bust and hips that are roughly the same proportion and a defined waistline, then you have an hourglass shape!
Dos: Try something fitted like a trumpet or mermaid silhouette to show off your curves. If you have always dreamed of yourself in a ballgown, you could try a fit and flare with a detachable skirt.
Don’ts: Avoid boxy shapes and opt for gowns that balance your top and bottom proportions
Apple-shaped: If you have an apple-shaped figure, you have a larger bust and midsection that taper down into narrower hips.
Dos: The goal with your body shape is to elongate the torso! Draw attention up toward the bust and down toward the legs. Try an empire waist or a gown with a plunging neckline. Other details to look for are ruching, draping, and flowy materials.
Don’ts: Avoid sheath-shaped gowns or dresses with over-the-top embellishments
Rectangle: If the measurements around your bust, waist, and hips are all about the same, then you have a rectangle shape!
Dos: Try a sheath dress with 3d applique, ruffles, or other details that add dimension and definition at the waist. A dress with boning in the bodice can help give that definition
Don’ts: Avoid boxy shapes or gowns with little to no structure
Additional tips for our plus-size or petite brides!
General: “Wrap” style dresses, or gowns that have ruching are universally flattering. If there is anything you feel self-conscious about, we want to help you feel confident! We can do that by adding a sleeve or strap, removing or adding layers in the skirt, or other alterations.
Plus-Size: We have a variety of styles and options for our plus-size brides! Finding dresses that have extra support like built in shapewear, a corset, or straps are a great way to feel comfortable and confident on your big day.
Petite
For our shorter brides, a sheath or A-line silhouette will elongate your figure. Avoid dresses that will overwhelm you–like a huge ballgown or dresses with over-the-top embellishments. All our gowns are made with long skirts, but don’t worry, the gown can be hemmed to your height while keeping all of the beautiful details in tact.
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again–these are great tips when you’re starting to shop for your wedding gown–but remember that regardless of the dream dress you choose, make sure it’s a gown that you feel beautiful and confident in!