Finding Your Perfect Wedding Gown Silhouette

Shopping for a wedding dress is one of the happiest – and stressful – times in the wedding planning process. You’ll find countless styles in magazines or on wedding blogs you love, but find they don’t fit or flatter your body when you try them on! Finding your perfect wedding gown silhouette is about looking for a cut and style that fits your body – understanding how a gown can fit and accentuate your body is essential when shopping for a gown. Here are some of the most common body shapes and how you can flatter any area with the right dress silhouette:

Full-Figured – Embrace your gorgeous hourglass shape and look for gowns that accentuate your curves! Mermaid and trumpet style silhouettes offer a slimming effect and complement the waist and hips. Look for a dress style with a built-in corset for even more shaping – a corset also provides support to the bust.

Slender – If you’re tall and slender, try on wedding dresses that help define curves for a classic, feminine look. Empire waistlines are a flattering choice and draw the eye to the midsection. A basque waistline, which is v-shaped stitching around the waist, will also define the hips.

Petite – Look for gowns that don’t overpower your petite build – simple gowns, such as a sheath or A-line silhouette, are very flattering and create the illusion of more height. Ballgowns are often not the best choice, as the added volume can overwhelm a petite frame.

 

If you needed added coverage around the arms or bustline, look for dresses that come with elegant jackets, boleros or lace sleeves. Sheer fabric creates elegant coverage for arms and cleavage, and often features gorgeous beadwork or appliqué. Look for a few dresses in various silhouettes – you won’t know how they look on your body until you try them on and you might even find you love a dress you never would have considered!