THE BEST DRESS
for your body shape
“
As women, we come in many shapes and sizes. We aren’t only unique in our body type, but our stature, height and tastes as well. It’s a truly beautiful thing that no two brides look alike! There will and forever be only one of us! The good news is, there’s a lot out there to choose from. Amongst bridal salons, boutiques, fashion retailers and independent designers, thousands upon thousands of dresses and designers are waiting for you! While finding “the one” is no small undertaking, a good place to start is understanding your body and what types of dresses will flatter and best highlight your personal shape. We’ve looked to some of our favorite partners to help key us into some great tips and education when it comes to finding the best fit for our body types. Let the shopping begin!
hourglass In my recent experience giving suggestions to ladies with an hourglass body shape, I have found that almost any silhouette is flattering. The hourglass body shape is considered the ‘ideal’ body shape by many women. These ladies are very wellproportioned with curves in all the right places and a distinct waistline. Styles that are cinched or belted can help further accentuate the waistline, and a form-fitting dress that shows off curves is most often what these ladies are drawn to. Ruffles, bows and other dimensional details can also draw attention to the hips or bust and can actually make her curves seem bigger than what they are. If bigger busted brides happen to be self-conscious in that area, V-necks, halters, sweethearts and scoop necks can be slimming. Since this body shape can usually wear a variety of silhouettes, I still encourage ladies to try on a variety of styles. Often times, ladies will come in to the store looking for a specific silhouette and end up purchasing an entirely different style. It still boils down to whatever makes her feel the most beautiful.”
- Traci DeBord, That Special Touch Bridal Boutique Columbus, IN
A-LINE PRINCESS EMPIRE WAIST
“
full figure
I am so glad that today, women and the fashion world are embracing every shape and size. Even though there are definite options if you do have a fuller figure—like an A-line princess gown or a one that accentuates the smallest part of the body such as an empire waist gown—a bride should ultimately find the dress that makes her feel the most beautiful. Just because she is a fuller figure, doesn’t mean she can’t wear a dress that a smaller size can wear. What I am going to do is adapt it to her and find out what is going to make her feel the most comfortable. For example, does she like to show off her shoulders? Arms? A little bit of bustline tastefully? Maybe she loves her calves, which could be accentuated with a hi-lo hemline. In the end, it’s about what will make her feel the most beautiful on her special day.”
- Eric Woolridge, WeddingDay Style Consultant 60
WEDDINGDAY
MERMAID/ TRUMPET COLUMN/ SHEATH
A-LINE PRINCESS