Every bride-to-be dreams of the perfect wedding dress, but finding the right one for your body type can be a daunting task. With so many styles, fabrics, and cuts to choose from, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate guide to help you pick the perfect wedding dress for your body type.
First, you need to understand your body shape. Are you an hourglass, pear-shaped, or athletic? Once you know your body type, you can start to choose fabrics and styles that will flatter your figure. It’s also important to know which wedding dress styles are best for your body type. A ball gown may look stunning on one body type but unflattering on another.
With our expert tips and dos and don’ts, you’ll be able to find the perfect wedding dress that accentuates your best features and makes you feel confident and beautiful on your special day. So let’s get started!
Ready to find your dream wedding dress? Keep reading for our top tips on how to pick the perfect dress for your body type.
Understanding Your Body Shape: The First Step To Finding Your Dream Wedding Dress
Every bride deserves to feel beautiful and confident on her big day, and finding the perfect wedding dress is key to achieving that. The first step to finding the dress of your dreams is understanding your body shape. It’s important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all solution, as every body is unique and beautiful in its own way. By understanding your body shape, you can accentuate your best features and choose a dress that flatters your figure.
Before you start shopping for dresses, take some time to assess your body shape. Are you pear-shaped, with wider hips and a smaller bust? Or perhaps you’re apple-shaped, with a fuller midsection and slimmer legs. Maybe you have an hourglass figure, with a well-defined waist and balanced proportions. Once you know your body shape, you can start looking for dresses that will enhance your natural curves and create a flattering silhouette.
Pear-Shaped: Highlight Your Curves
- Look for dresses that draw attention to your upper body, such as strapless or off-the-shoulder styles.
- A-line dresses are perfect for pear-shaped figures, as they cinch at the waist and flare out at the hips.
- Choose fabrics that drape over your curves, such as chiffon or tulle.
Apple-Shaped: Create Balance
For apple-shaped figures, the goal is to create a balanced silhouette that draws attention away from the midsection.
- Empire-waist dresses are a great choice, as they cinch just below the bust and flow out into a full skirt.
- Look for dresses with a V-neckline, which will elongate your torso and draw attention to your face.
- Consider a dress with a corset or lace-up back, which will create a more defined waistline.
Hourglass: Embrace Your Curves
If you have an hourglass figure, you’re blessed with a balanced, proportional shape that looks great in a variety of styles.
- Mermaid and trumpet dresses are a great choice, as they hug your curves and flare out at the bottom.
- Look for dresses with a sweetheart or scoop neckline, which will flatter your décolletage.
- Consider a dress with a cinched waistline or a belt to accentuate your hourglass shape.
Remember, the most important thing is to choose a dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Don’t be afraid to try on different styles and silhouettes until you find the one that’s perfect for you.
Know Your Fabrics: Which Materials Will Flatter Your Figure?
Choosing the right fabric for your wedding dress is just as important as selecting the right style. The right fabric can enhance your best features and downplay any areas you’d like to hide. Knowing which fabrics work best for your body type will help you make the right choice.
Here are some fabrics to consider:
Silk
- Satin: A popular choice, satin is perfect for creating a luxurious and sophisticated look. It drapes beautifully, making it perfect for A-line dresses.
- Charmeuse: A lightweight fabric with a glossy finish that clings to the body, charmeuse is ideal for column dresses or gowns with a bias cut.
Lace
- Chantilly Lace: A delicate, lightweight lace with an intricate floral pattern that works well for fitted, vintage-inspired dresses.
- Alençon Lace: A heavier lace with a distinct corded pattern that is perfect for ballgowns and dresses with full skirts.
Tulle
- Soft Tulle: A lightweight, flowing fabric that works well for creating a dreamy, romantic look. It’s ideal for ballgowns and dresses with full skirts.
- Stiff Tulle: A stiffer, more structured fabric that’s great for creating volume and structure in dresses. It’s perfect for ballgowns and dresses with A-line skirts.
When selecting your wedding dress fabric, consider the overall look you’re trying to achieve, as well as the season and venue of your wedding. And don’t forget to take your personal style and preferences into account!
Knowing which fabrics work best for your body type can help you find a wedding dress that flatters your figure and makes you feel confident and beautiful on your special day.
Top Wedding Dress Styles For An Hourglass Figure That Will Make Heads Turn
As an hourglass bride, you’re blessed with a figure that is balanced and proportionate, with curves in all the right places. It’s essential to choose a wedding dress that accentuates your curves and highlights your narrow waistline.
Here are some top wedding dress styles that will flatter your hourglass figure and make heads turn on your special day:
Mermaid Gowns
A mermaid gown is a popular choice for hourglass brides as it hugs the body from the bust to the knee, then flares out to create a dramatic silhouette. This style accentuates your curves and highlights your narrow waistline. A sweetheart neckline complements the mermaid style, as it accentuates the bust, creating a balanced look.
A-Line Dresses
An A-line dress is another popular choice for hourglass brides. The style is fitted at the bodice and flares out from the waist to create an “A” shape. This style accentuates the waistline and creates a balanced look. A sweetheart or v-neckline complements the A-line style and accentuates the bust.
Ball Gowns
Ball gowns are perfect for hourglass brides who want to create a fairytale look. The style features a fitted bodice and a full skirt that flares out from the waist, creating an hourglass silhouette. A sweetheart neckline complements the ball gown style and accentuates the bust.
How To Accentuate Your Curves: Tips For Choosing A Wedding Dress For A Pear-Shaped Body
Choosing the perfect wedding dress can be a daunting task, especially when you have a pear-shaped body. But, fret not! With a few tips, you can accentuate your curves and look stunning on your big day.
Firstly, it is important to understand what a pear-shaped body means. It is characterized by a smaller upper body and a wider lower body. The goal is to balance out the proportions of the body and highlight the best features.
Tip #1: A-Line Silhouette
- An A-line silhouette is perfect for pear-shaped bodies as it cinches at the waist and flares out towards the bottom, creating a balance between the upper and lower body.
- Opt for a dress that has a fitted bodice to accentuate the waistline and a flowy skirt that drapes beautifully over the hips and thighs.
Tip #2: Off-The-Shoulder Neckline
- Off-the-shoulder necklines draw attention to the upper body and create an illusion of a broader shoulder.
- Choose a dress that has a sweetheart neckline, as it complements the shape of the bust and adds a feminine touch to the overall look.
Tip #3: Embellishments
- Embellishments can add dimension and texture to a dress, making it more visually appealing.
- Consider a dress that has beading or lace detailing on the upper body to draw attention upwards and away from the lower body.
- Alternatively, you can choose a dress with embellishments on the hemline or train, creating a focal point at the bottom of the dress.
Remember, the key to choosing the perfect wedding dress for a pear-shaped body is to create a balance between the upper and lower body. With these tips, you can accentuate your curves and feel confident on your special day.
Flaunt Your Figure: Wedding Dresses That Compliment An Athletic Body Type
If you have an athletic body type, you have a naturally toned and lean physique. You might have broad shoulders, a straight waist, and well-defined muscles. To showcase your figure and highlight your best assets, it’s important to find the right wedding dress. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect dress:
Firstly, consider a dress that accentuates your waistline. A fitted gown with a defined waistline can create the illusion of curves and add femininity to your athletic frame. You can also opt for a dress with ruching or draping, which can create the appearance of curves and add softness to your overall look. Additionally, A-line gowns or dresses with fuller skirts can balance your figure and create an hourglass silhouette.
Materials
- Choose a fabric that adds softness and femininity to your figure. Lace and chiffon are ideal options that can create a delicate and elegant look.
- Try to avoid heavy fabrics such as satin or taffeta that can add bulk to your frame and take away from your natural physique.
Necklines
Opt for a neckline that showcases your toned shoulders and arms. A halter neckline or a dress with spaghetti straps can accentuate your upper body and create a more balanced look. You can also try a sweetheart neckline, which can soften your shoulders and add a touch of romance to your dress.
Accessories
- Choose accessories that complement your dress and add femininity to your look. Dainty earrings and bracelets can add a touch of elegance, while a simple veil can create a timeless and classic look.
- Avoid accessories that are too bulky or overpowering, as they can detract from your natural figure.
Remember, the key to finding the perfect dress for your athletic body type is to highlight your natural physique and add softness and femininity to your overall look. By choosing the right materials, neckline, and accessories, you can create a stunning and unforgettable bridal look that showcases your unique figure.
Dos and Don’ts: Mistakes To Avoid When Choosing A Wedding Dress For Your Body Type
Choosing the perfect wedding dress can be a daunting task, but it becomes even more difficult when you have to find a dress that complements your body type. Here are some dos and don’ts to help you avoid common mistakes when choosing a wedding dress for your body type.
Do: Know your body shape before you start shopping. This will help you find the dress that accentuates your best features and flatters your figure.
Don’t: Choose a dress that is too tight or too loose
A dress that is too tight can make you feel uncomfortable and self-conscious, while a dress that is too loose can add unwanted volume and make you look shapeless. Choose a dress that fits you perfectly and hugs your curves in all the right places.
Do: Consider the neckline and sleeves
- For pear-shaped bodies, consider a dress with a V-neckline to elongate the neck and draw attention to the upper body. Cap sleeves or off-the-shoulder styles are also great options.
- For athletic body types, consider a dress with a sweetheart neckline or a halter top to soften the shoulders and create a more feminine silhouette. Three-quarter sleeves can also add balance to the figure.
- For hourglass figures, consider a dress with a scoop or sweetheart neckline to accentuate the bust. Cap sleeves or off-the-shoulder styles are also great options.
Don’t: Be afraid to try something different
Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something different. You never know, a dress style that you never considered before could end up being the perfect fit for your body type. Just remember to stay true to your personal style and choose a dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful on your special day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I pick the right wedding dress for my body type?
Start by identifying your body type – pear, apple, hourglass or athletic. This will help you determine which styles to try on. For example, a ball gown can flatter a pear-shaped body, while a sheath dress can highlight an athletic figure. Don’t be afraid to try on different styles, even those that you didn’t think would work for you. It’s also important to keep in mind your personal style and what makes you feel confident and comfortable on your big day.
What styles of wedding dresses look best on a pear-shaped body?
For a pear-shaped body, a ball gown style dress can be a great option. This style has a fitted bodice and a full skirt that can balance out wider hips. A-line dresses can also be a flattering option, as they flare out from the waist and create a more proportionate silhouette. Look for dresses with details like lace or beading on the top to draw attention to the upper body.
What should I avoid when choosing a wedding dress for an hourglass figure?
Avoid dresses that are too loose or baggy, as they can hide your curves. Also, be careful with dresses that have too much fabric, as they can overwhelm your figure. Stay away from high-necked styles, as they can make your bust look too large. Instead, opt for dresses that have a fitted bodice and a flared skirt to highlight your curves.
What types of wedding dresses are best for an apple-shaped body?
For an apple-shaped body, look for dresses that have a high waistline and a skirt that flares out. This can help create the illusion of a more defined waist. Empire waist dresses can also be flattering, as they cinch in just under the bust and flow outwards. Avoid dresses with too much fabric around the midsection, as they can add unwanted bulk.
How do I choose a wedding dress that flatters my athletic figure?
For an athletic figure, look for dresses that create curves. A sheath or mermaid style dress can help create the illusion of curves, as can dresses with a sweetheart neckline or off-the-shoulder sleeves. Stay away from dresses with straight lines, as they can make you appear more straight and narrow. Look for dresses with details like ruching or beading to add dimension to your figure.
What should I consider when choosing a wedding dress?
Consider your venue and the season you’ll be getting married in. Also, think about your personal style and what makes you feel confident and comfortable. Keep in mind any details that are important to you, such as sleeves or a particular neckline. And most importantly, choose a dress that makes you feel like the most beautiful version of yourself on your big day.