Find Your Perfect Wedding Dress Shape for Fuller Figures

When it comes to finding the perfect wedding dress, there are many factors to consider. For fuller-figured brides, it can be especially challenging to find a dress that fits well and looks beautiful. But fear not! With the right knowledge and guidance, you can find the perfect wedding dress shape for your body type.

First and foremost, it’s important to understand your body type. While there are many different body shapes and sizes, there are a few key shapes that are most common among fuller-figured women. By identifying your body shape, you can choose a wedding dress that accentuates your best features and flatters your curves.

Choosing the right neckline, dress style, and accessories can also make a big difference in how your wedding dress looks and feels. From elegant ball gowns to chic A-line dresses, there are many different styles to choose from. And with the right accessories, you can add the perfect finishing touches to your bridal look.

So, whether you’re a curvy bride-to-be or just looking for some helpful tips, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about finding the perfect wedding dress shape for fuller figures.

Understanding Your Body Type

One of the most important steps in finding the perfect wedding dress for fuller figures is understanding your body type. This will help you choose a dress that flatters your figure and accentuates your best features. First and foremost, it’s essential to embrace your curves and find a dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Hourglass: If you have an hourglass figure, you’ll want to choose a dress that highlights your curves. A fitted dress with a defined waistline is perfect for showing off your shape. You can also opt for a ball gown or A-line dress to balance out your proportions.

Apple: If you have an apple-shaped figure, you’ll want to choose a dress that draws attention to your upper body. A V-neck or sweetheart neckline will flatter your bust, and an empire waistline will create a beautiful flowy effect. Look for dresses that cinch at the smallest part of your waist to create an hourglass effect.

Pear: If you have a pear-shaped figure, you’ll want to choose a dress that balances out your proportions. A ball gown or A-line dress will do just that. Look for dresses with detailing on the bodice to draw attention upwards and create a balanced look.

Inverted Triangle: If you have an inverted triangle-shaped figure, you’ll want to choose a dress that balances out your proportions. A ball gown or A-line dress will do just that. Look for dresses with detailing on the bodice to draw attention upwards and create a balanced look.

Straight: If you have a straight-shaped figure, you’ll want to choose a dress that creates the illusion of curves. A fitted dress with ruching or detailing at the waistline will give the appearance of an hourglass figure. You can also opt for a ball gown or A-line dress to add volume to your lower body.

Remember, the most important thing is to choose a dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful. By understanding your body type and knowing what styles flatter your figure, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect wedding dress for your big day.

Identifying Your Body Shape

1. Hourglass: If your bust and hips are roughly the same size and your waist is significantly smaller, you have an hourglass shape. Look for dresses that accentuate your curves, such as fit-and-flare or mermaid styles.
2. Apple: If you carry most of your weight in your midsection, you have an apple-shaped body. A-line dresses with an empire waist or a corseted bodice can help balance out your proportions.
3. Pear: If you have wider hips and a smaller bust, you have a pear-shaped body. A-line dresses and ball gowns are flattering for your shape, as they draw the eye upwards towards your upper body.
4. Rectangle: If your bust, waist, and hips are all about the same size, you have a rectangular shape. Try dresses with a defined waistline or a high-low hemline to create the illusion of curves.
5. Inverted Triangle: If you have broad shoulders and a narrower lower body, you have an inverted triangle shape. A-line dresses and ball gowns can help balance out your proportions and create a more hourglass-like silhouette.

It’s important to remember that everyone’s body is unique, and these are just general guidelines. When trying on dresses, pay attention to how they fit your specific curves and features.

Choosing the Right Neckline

When it comes to finding the perfect wedding dress for fuller figures, the neckline is an important factor to consider. A neckline can enhance or detract from your body shape, so it’s essential to choose the right one that flatters your curves. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

V-Neckline: A V-neckline is perfect for fuller figures as it creates an illusion of a longer torso and slimmer silhouette. It draws attention to the center of your body, creating a more balanced look. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to highlight their curves.

Sweetheart Neckline: A sweetheart neckline is another great option for fuller figures. This neckline creates a heart-shaped neckline that accentuates the bust and slims down the waist. This neckline is perfect for those who want to show off their curves and create a more feminine look.

Scoop Neckline: A scoop neckline is perfect for those who want a more modest look. This neckline is flattering for those who have a broader upper body and fuller bust. It creates an illusion of a narrower neck and highlights the collarbones.

Halter Neckline: A halter neckline is ideal for fuller figures as it draws attention to the shoulders and creates a more balanced look. It creates an illusion of a narrower upper body and elongates the neck. This neckline is perfect for those who want to create a more dramatic look.

Off-The-Shoulder Neckline: An off-the-shoulder neckline is perfect for those who want to show off their curves while still being modest. This neckline is flattering for those who have broader shoulders and creates an illusion of a narrower upper body. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to create a romantic look.

Flattering Necklines for Fuller Figures

Choosing the right neckline is crucial when it comes to finding a wedding dress that flatters your curves. V-necklines are a great option as they create a vertical line that elongates your body and draws the eye upwards. Similarly, sweetheart necklines can also be very flattering as they accentuate the decolletage while balancing out the hips.

For those who prefer more coverage, illusion necklines are a great option. These sheer panels create the illusion of a plunging neckline without revealing too much skin. Halter necklines can also be a great choice as they show off your shoulders and draw attention to your upper body.

It’s important to note that high necklines should be avoided as they can make your bust appear larger than it is. Similarly, bateau necklines and off-the-shoulder necklines can also make your shoulders appear wider than they are.

Ultimately, the best neckline for you will depend on your personal style and body shape. Don’t be afraid to try on a variety of different necklines to see what works best for you.

Necklines to Avoid

While there are plenty of flattering necklines for fuller figures, there are also some necklines that should be avoided. Here are five types of necklines that are not recommended for plus-size brides:

1. Halter necklines: They draw attention to the shoulders and neck, which can make the bust area look wider and the hips look smaller. This creates an unbalanced look.
2. Strapless necklines: They can make the upper body look broader and draw attention to the arms, which can be a problem area for some plus-size brides.
3. Deep V-necklines: While they can be sexy, they can also create a disproportionate look and make the bust area look larger.
4. High necklines: They can make the neck appear shorter and the bust area look larger.
5. Jewel necklines: They can make the bust area look wider and shorter, which can create an unflattering silhouette.

Avoiding these necklines can help you create a balanced and proportional look that flatters your figure. Instead, focus on necklines that draw attention to your best features and create a flattering silhouette.

The Best Styles for Plus-Size Brides

When it comes to finding the perfect wedding dress as a plus-size bride, it’s all about the fit. The right dress will hug your curves in all the right places, accentuating your best features. But what styles work best for curvier figures?

A-Line: An A-line dress is a classic choice that flatters many body types. It’s fitted at the top and flares out gradually from the waist, creating an elongated silhouette.

Ballgown: A ballgown can make any bride feel like a princess on her big day. This style features a fitted bodice and a full skirt, perfect for hiding any areas you may be self-conscious about.

Empire Waist: An empire waist dress is another great option for plus-size brides. The waistline is raised above the natural waist and falls into a flowing skirt, giving the illusion of a longer torso and creating a romantic, ethereal look.

Mermaid: If you’re looking to show off your curves, a mermaid dress is the way to go. This style hugs your figure from the top down to the mid-thigh, then flares out dramatically, creating a glamorous hourglass silhouette.

Remember, the most important thing is to feel confident and beautiful on your wedding day. So, try on different styles and find the one that makes you feel like the best version of yourself!

Empire Waist Dresses

Flattering Features: This style cinches just below the bust and flows into an A-line silhouette, creating a flattering shape that draws attention away from the midsection. Empire waist dresses can elongate the body and make you appear taller and slimmer.

Material Matters: Choose a lightweight fabric like chiffon or tulle to create a flowy, ethereal effect. Avoid heavy materials like satin or thick layers of tulle, as they can add bulk to the midsection and make you appear larger than you are.

Accessorizing: Opt for a delicate necklace or earrings to draw attention to your face and neckline, and consider adding a sash or ribbon to accentuate your waistline.

When to Wear: Empire waist dresses are perfect for outdoor weddings, beach weddings, or more casual affairs. They’re also great for pregnant brides or those who want to accentuate their bust while minimizing their midsection.

Accessorizing Your Wedding Dress

Accessories can really make your wedding day outfit pop, so don’t forget to consider them! You can add some sparkle with statement jewelry or a tiara, or add some color with a sash or wrap.

When choosing accessories, keep in mind the style of your dress and your overall wedding theme. You want your accessories to complement your dress, not overpower it.

Don’t be afraid to try different pieces and see what works best for you. And remember, less is often more – choose a few key pieces that really enhance your look, rather than going overboard with lots of accessories.

Belts and Sashes

Adding a belt or sash to your wedding dress can accentuate your waist and add some sparkle or color to your look. If your dress is simple, a jeweled or embellished belt can add some glamour. If your dress is already adorned, a simple satin or silk sash can complement it. Make sure the color and style of the belt or sash matches the overall theme of your wedding.

Belts and sashes can also help tie together the entire wedding party’s looks. Consider having bridesmaids wear a sash or belt that matches your wedding color scheme to create a cohesive and stylish look.

For brides who want to create a vintage-inspired look, a wide ribbon tied in a bow at the back of the dress can be a beautiful alternative to a traditional belt or sash.

Jewelry and Hair Accessories

Jewelry: Adding the right jewelry can enhance the look of your wedding dress. If your dress is ornate, choose simple jewelry such as stud earrings and a delicate necklace. For a simpler dress, you can choose bolder pieces of jewelry, such as chandelier earrings and statement necklaces.

Hair Accessories: Hair accessories can add glamour to your overall look. For a classic look, consider wearing a veil. For a more modern look, you can choose from hairpins, combs, or headbands. If you prefer a more natural look, you can opt for flowers, such as fresh flowers or floral hair vines.

Match Your Accessories with Your Dress: When choosing your accessories, it’s important to keep your dress in mind. Make sure that your accessories match the style of your dress, as well as the color and material. If your dress is heavily embellished, choose simpler accessories to avoid overwhelming your look.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Fit

Know Your Measurements: To ensure the perfect fit, you should know your measurements. Use a tape measure and measure your bust, waist, and hips. You can also ask a friend to help or visit a professional seamstress.

Consider Tailoring: Tailoring your wedding dress can make a world of difference. A professional seamstress can alter your dress to fit your body perfectly, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident on your big day.

Try on Multiple Dresses: Don’t settle for the first dress you try on. Make sure to try on multiple dresses in different styles and silhouettes to find the perfect fit for your body type.

Don’t Obsess Over the Size

One of the most important things to keep in mind when it comes to finding the perfect fit for your wedding dress is to not obsess over the size. Many brides become fixated on a specific number and can get discouraged if they don’t fit into that size.

Instead, focus on finding a dress that fits your body shape and makes you feel confident and beautiful. Keep in mind that bridal sizing can differ from regular clothing sizing, so don’t be alarmed if you need to order a size up.

It’s also important to remember that every body is unique and beautiful, and the right dress will flatter your figure regardless of the number on the tag. So don’t stress about the size and instead focus on finding the dress that makes you feel like a bride.

Alterations Are Your Friend

Even if you find a dress you love, chances are it won’t fit perfectly right off the rack. But don’t worry! That’s what alterations are for. A good seamstress can work wonders and make your dress fit like a glove.

Be sure to schedule your alterations with enough time before the wedding, as they can take several weeks to complete. And don’t be afraid to speak up about any concerns or changes you want made during the fitting process.

Some common alterations include taking in or letting out the waist, hemming the length, and adjusting the straps or sleeves. Remember, the goal is for you to feel comfortable and confident in your dress, and alterations can help make that happen.

Shop for the Undergarments First

When it comes to finding the perfect fit for your wedding dress, it’s important to start with the right foundation. That means shopping for your undergarments before you even start looking for a dress. Look for pieces that are specifically designed for your body type, such as a plus-size bra or shapewear that will smooth out any bumps or lumps.

When you go for your dress fitting, be sure to wear the undergarments you plan to wear on your wedding day. This will help you get a better idea of how the dress will look and feel with the right support. Your seamstress may also need to make adjustments based on the type of undergarments you choose.

Don’t forget about hosiery as well. If you plan to wear stockings or pantyhose, make sure you bring them to your fitting as well. This will ensure that the dress length is adjusted properly, and you’ll be comfortable on your big day.

Frequently Asked Questions