With so many stunning styles, fabrics, and silhouettes out there, how do you find the wedding dress that not only takes your breath away but also makes you feel radiant and comfortable in your own skin?
The secret is focusing on how a gown complements your unique and beautiful shape. Every body is a perfect body, and the right dress simply enhances the gorgeous features you already have.
Here is a simple guide to help you start your search, keeping in mind that these are just starting points - the best dress is always the one you fall in love with!
A Guide to Body Types and Gowns
The Hourglass Figure
If your bust and hips are roughly the same size, with a clearly defined waist, you have an hourglass figure.
The Goal: Show off the natural waistline.
Best Silhouettes:
Mermaid or Trumpet: These styles are made for you! They hug your curves and dramatically flare out, highlighting your beautiful proportions.
Ball Gown: If you love drama, a ball gown with a fitted, structured bodice and a full skirt will cinch your waist perfectly.
A-Line: Always a classic, a well-fitted A-line will maintain balance while emphasizing your defined waist.
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Justin Alexander
Lolita
The Apple Figure
If you carry more weight around your midsection, or your waist is less defined than your hips and shoulders, you may identify with an apple shape.
The Goal: Create a smooth, elongated line and draw attention to your décolletage and legs.
Best Silhouettes:
A-Line (Empire Waist): This is a winner! An empire waist flares out just under the bust, gliding beautifully over the midsection without clinging.
Ball Gown: Similar to the A-line, a full skirt provides balance and structure away from the waist.
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Lillian West
66437
The Pear or Triangle Figure
If your hips are wider than your bust and shoulders, you have a pear shape.
The Goal: Elongate your torso, emphasize your delicate upper body, and beautifully skim over your hips.
Best Silhouettes:
A-Line: The absolute perfect choice. It gently grazes your hips and flows out, providing a flattering and elongating shape without adding bulk.
Ball Gown: The voluminous skirt will easily balance out your lower half.
Off-the-Shoulder or Detailed Necklines: Draw the eye upward with beautiful lace, beading, or sleeves.
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Pronovias
AINSLEY
The Inverted Triangle Figure
If your bust and shoulders are wider than your hips, you have an inverted triangle shape.
The Goal: Balance your upper body by adding volume and interest to your lower half.
Best Silhouettes:
Ball Gown: The fullest skirt possible will effortlessly balance your broader shoulders.
A-Line: A staple for a reason, this silhouette creates a soft, balanced flow.
Dresses with Waist Detailing: Belts, sashes, or ruching at the waist can define the area beautifully.
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Justin Alexander
Lyla
The Rectangle Figure
If your bust, waist, and hips are roughly the same width, you have a straight or column figure.
The Goal: Create the illusion of curves and add definition where you want it.
Best Silhouettes:
Sheath/Column: While it follows your natural lines, fitted sheath dresses can look incredibly chic and elegant on a slender frame.
Ball Gown: The full skirt and fitted bodice will instantly create the illusion of a smaller waist.
Mermaid/Trumpet: This style adds dramatic curves where none existed before.
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Lillian West
66416
Remember, these are only suggestions! The most important factor in choosing your gown is how you feel when you put it on. Does it make you want to dance? Does it make you feel beautiful? Does it make you feel confident and comfortable in your perfect body? If the answer is yes, then that is your perfect dress - no matter what the "rules" say.
At Le Bella Donna, we believe that every bride deserves to feel incredible on her wedding day. Book your bridal appointment with Le Bella Donna today!