How to Choose a Wedding Dress to Complement Your Figure

Consider the dress's silhouette.

Plan ahead to find the perfect wedding gown. You want to choose a dress that will both complement your figure and accentuate your positives. Think in terms of shape as you prepare to shop. Search for a dress that’s tailored to suit your specific body type, whether it is pear-shaped, thin, hourglass or full-figured. You want a magical fit.

Instructions

1. Consider balance if your body is pear-shaped -- that is, if your bottom is larger than your top. An A-line dress or one with princess seams won’t overwhelm a petite bride with a pear shape. If you’re tall, you can pull off a full-skirted ball gown or a dropped basque waist. Either way, accentuate your bust with a V-shaped or sweetheart neckline or an off-the-shoulder or strapless top.

2. Look for a dress with a long, lean line if you have a thin or athletic build. A sheath or column gown is elegant and classic. A mermaid gown, which fits tightly from bust to knee and flares at the hem, will make you look curvaceous and shapely. An empire cut, with a waistline just under the bust, gives the illusion of a fuller decolletage.

3. Stick with a traditional A-line or princess silhouette if you are a full-figured bride. These dresses are tailored in the bust and waist and gently flare at the hips. They will flatter your full figure and bring out your curves. Stay away from big puffy sleeves and fluffy fabrics, however. You don’t want to add bulk.

4. Show off an hourglass figure with a mermaid dress to flaunt your curves or with a ball gown for a fairytale effect. With your shape you can handle a tight fit in the bust, waist and hips, so a basque waist is especially flattering on you. Let those curves flow as you shine in the spotlight.

References

• Planet Wedding; Sandra Choron and Harry Choron
• The Wedding Gown Book; Elizabeth Shimer