Finding A Wedding Dress Style To Match Your Body Shape

For brides-to-be, knowing exactly what type of wedding dress suits your body type and at the same time meets your idea of the dream wedding dress can be a challenge in itself.

Your gown should reflect the formality and theme of the wedding in addition to your own sense of style.

Here are some of our typical body shapes with styles that are designed to flatter.

Editors Tip: While highlighting your best features and minimizing your imperfections, make sure that you will feel comfortable and relaxed in whatever you decide on.

Hourglass
Pronounced bust, well defined waist, curvy hips and shapely legs think Marilyn Monroe. Strapless or halter neck will suit with a fitted body to flatter her feminine curves.

Pear Shaped
Narrow shoulders, small bust, wider hips and full thighs. The ever fashionable empire line or A line is best suited to this body type.

Athletic
Wide shoulders, medium bust, straight waist and narrow hips. A strapless or shoestring strap dress with a fitted waist will look stunning for the more athletic brides. This classic, timeless look will be adored.

Round Waist Narrow Hips
Wide neck, full bust, thicker waist. A lower or sweetheart neckline that will elongate your neck and accentuate your bust should be road tested here. A fitted or drop waist will lengthen your torso, slim your line and make you feel fabulous.

Straight
Wide shoulders, undefined waist and bottom average bust. If this sounds like you, wedding dresses with an aline shape are ideal as are an empire waist styles to soften your form, lengthen your form and add volume to your behind.

Your budget will help to determine whether you choose to find a couturier, home dressmaker or purchase your wedding dress off-the-rack.

Be prepared to to try on different styles, even the ones you'd never even considered. You will be surprised at what dress styles and fabrics look better on you than on the rack.