We know, we know, how hard it is finding the perfect wedding dress!
If you are too skinny, or too curvy, or just too too, there are certain styles that flatter different body types best. Do you know what body type you have? Let's start there, shall we? Everyone has a unique body, and understanding and appreciating the differences can help you choose the dress.
First, here is a description of each body type:
Pear – your hips are wider than your bust and waist
Rectangle – your bust, hips, and waist are around the same size
Hourglass – your hips and bust are around the same size and your waist is smaller
Apple – your bust and hips are around the same size and your waist is larger
Inverted triangle – your bust is wider than your waist and hips
Now let's measure -- what you think and what the numbers reveal may not be the same thing my dears. As any designer or seamstress will tell you, the tape measure never lies!
Shoulders: Your shoulder measurement is the total tape length from one edge of the shoulder all around you to the same point. You may need some assistance with this one!
Bust: This is the circumference measured across the fullest part of your bust, holding the tape taut but not too tight.
Waist: Locate the narrowest part of your waist. It will usually be just above your belly button. Use a tape measure to go around your body along this point.
Hips: This measurement should be taken just below the hip bone. Measure the circumference of this area.
Drumroll. Please! Compare these measurements with the body type descriptions to determine your true body type. While it’s important to choose a wedding dress that fits your personality, knowing the best wedding dress silhouettes for each body type can help you narrow down your options. So away we go...
If you have an hourglass figure with balanced proportions between the bust and hips with a smaller waist, you'll want to flaunt your curves. Consider these tips:
- A wedding dress that cinches at the waist showcases your shape. A fitted bodice or a mermaid-style skirt will hug your curves and emphasize your narrow waist.
- A-line dresses are universally flattering for your figure. They emphasize your curves while offering a balanced look from top to bottom. Look for skirts that flare gently from the waist, creating an elegant, feminine silhouette.
Pear-shaped with a smaller upper body and broader hips? To achieve a beautiful, balanced look, follow these suggestions:
- Look for dresses with a fitted bodice and a skirt that flows away from the body, creating a balanced and elegant look.
- Empire waistlines highlight the smallest part of your body, just below the bust, and then flow gently over the hips. This style can help elongate your torso, creating a flattering and romantic silhouette.
- Strapless or off-the-shoulder necklines draw attention to your upper body and shoulders, balancing out the width of your hips. Add embellishments or details around the neckline to further accentuate your upper body.
- Consider avoiding mermaid-style dresses, as these typically will visually enlarge your lower body.
The Apple shaped body is characterized by your bust and hips being around the same size as almost your waist. To create a flattering and balanced look, consider the following:
- Empire or A-line silhouettes will elongate your body, creating a longer torso and skimming over your midsection.
- V-neck or deep V necklines draw attention upward, highlighting your upper body. Consider dresses with draped or ruched details around the neckline to add interest and create a flattering focal point.
The Rectangle-shaped body has a straight silhouette, with your shoulders, waist, and hips all relatively the same width. To flatter your body type, follow these recommendations:
- Ball gowns or A-line silhouettes will add volume and definition by creating the illusion of a more defined waistline. Look for dresses with a fitted bodice and a skirt that flares to add volume.
Adding a belt or sash at the waist can accentuate the area and add interest.
- Ruffles, beading, and lace details can create dimension and shape. Look for dresses with intricate embellishments and pieces around the bust or waist for the wow factor.
Real Bride wears Alexis. Photo by Alyssa Bunton.
Real Bride wears Legato. Photo by Detroit Wedding Photographer.
Real Bride wears Legato. Photo by Detroit Wedding Photographer.
The Inverted triangle body features broader shoulders and a narrower waist and hips. To achieve a balanced look, consider this:
- A-line or ball gown silhouettes create fullness at the bottom, complimenting your broader shoulders. Look for dresses with a full skirt or ball gown silhouette to add volume.
- Consider dresses with halter or scoop necklines that will flatter your upper body and create a more proportionate look.
-Look for dresses with full skirts or dresses that have sleeves, such as cap sleeves or flutter sleeves, to create a balanced look.
By simply understanding your body shape, you can find a dress that accentuates your best features and flatters YOU!
We are always here to help... Yours in the perfect gown
x Veronica
x Veronica
