So which shape to choose....
All women are different shapes and sizes, embrace who you are and use all of the features you love. However, keep in mind the wedding is a long day and comfort is also a priority.
So here are a few basics....
If you are the type of person who loves to show off her figure then the mermaid is the perfect style for you. This shape will contour your body beautifully creating an elegant and sleek finish.
If you are the type of person who prefers a loose style then the A-Line shape is amazing! It shows your shape beautifully around the waistline area and the skirt provides a soft flow creating comfort and movability, providing a classic and elegant look. Also, the style of skirts can be anything from straight down creating the soft flow, to the princess style which is great for the dramatic look.
These are the two main basic shapes as a guideline to follow. For more details on each style of dress, just scroll down!
A-Line
The A-Line style is fitted around the bodice and flows out, creating an A shape. The dress can either be flowing or structured with layers or a hoop to create a more dramatic shape.
This style of wedding gown is very traditional and ideal for the church weddings.
Ball Gown/Princess
The ball gown and princess style both hold a similar shape to the A-Line where they will be fitted around the bust line area and sometimes to the waistline. Both of the skirts are either starting at a high point on the bodice under the bust line or lower to the waistline. They provide a very fairy tale look and will normally have many layers underneath or a hoop to create a dramatic look.
This style of wedding gown goes well with the larger weddings and big ceremonies as the look will be carried off well.
Mermaid/Trumpet
The mermaid style contours the body from the chest to the knee, and then flares out to the hem. This is a very sexy and romantic look that highlights the curves of a woman’s body.
The trumpet style is very similar to the mermaid in the way that it has a close-fitting bodice. The difference is that the trumpet has more of a flared skirt rather than the defined structure of the mermaid.
Both of these styles are for the bride who is comfortable to show off her shape as they both contour the figure.
Sheath
The sheath style is straight as the seam will run vertically from the shoulders to the hips, flattering a bride's natural shape.
This style is perfect for the beach weddings as most are made from chiffon creating lightness to the gown. Also, the sheath wedding gowns are suitable for those brides who are expecting as it will still show off your shape beautifully, whilst flowing and feeling comfortable.
Tea length
The tea length style has a very vintage feel and has no train. The hem finishes above the ankle but below the knee creating a 1950's style. This style compliments both the petite and taller ladies, whilst still contouring the shape from the waist line area. The skirt holds the shape of the dress which can either be flowing or volume. This style of dress enables the bride to accessorize more showing off the shoes as they will be visible. Also, following in with the vintage style a bird cage veil would go perfectly.
Mini
The mini style usually finishes above the knee and is a perfect style for the laid back bride who is most comfortable in something more similar to our usual type of dress fitting. The bodice creates a beautiful shape for the waistline area and flows out. So if you're the type of bride who prefers to have no train and wear some stunning shoes this style is perfect.
This type of wedding dress is also a good option to wear for your reception party after the ceremony. It is also popular as one to get changed into if you want the big princess style for the day and to change into something more comfortable for the rest of the day to have a dance.
Gown colours....
The traditional colour for bridal gowns is Ivory. White is available however, it is quite harsh on the skin tone as it is so bright in comparison to the Ivory making it less popular with the modern day bride, but it is always down to personal preference.
Do not be afraid to choose colour as detail on the dress, whether it is just some embroidery detail or whether the whole dress is a colour, it is a unique dress and your style.