Finding the perfect bridal gown is one of the most exciting aspects of wedding planning. But with countless styles, fabrics, and silhouettes to choose from, it can also be overwhelming. The key to finding a gown that looks and feels amazing on you lies in understanding which styles best complement your body type.

Before diving into dress styles, it’s important to identify your body type. While everybody is unique, most fall into one of the following categories:

Apple: Featuring a fuller midsection with narrower hips, this body type can benefit from dresses that create the illusion of a smaller waist. Empire waist gowns or dresses with a structured bodice and flowing skirt can help balance proportions.

Pear: If you have a smaller upper body and fuller hips and thighs, dresses that emphasise the upper body while skimming over the lower half are great. Try gowns with embellished bodices, unique pleating at the top or off-the-shoulder styles to draw attention upward.

Hourglass: This body type features a well-defined waist with balanced bust and hip measurements. Dresses that highlight your curves, such as fitted gowns or mermaid styles, work beautifully. Look for designs that cinch at the waist and flow over your hips.

Inverted Triangle: This body type has broader shoulders with a narrower waist and hips. Dresses that create balance by adding volume to the lower half can be flattering. A-line skirts or ball gowns work well to balance the proportions.

Rectangle: If your bust, waist, and hips are roughly the same width, you might have a rectangle shape. Dresses that add curves or create the illusion of a waistline are ideal. Consider options like fit-and-flare styles or dresses with ruching or embellishments at the waist.

Understanding your body type can help narrow down your search and take off the added pressure of starting from ground zero. But not to worry! Your stylist will be on hand to guide you through the process, just keep an open mind and try on different styles and cuts. You’ll never know unless you try!

Remember, though that these are just guidelines. The most important thing is to choose a dress that makes you feel amazing and aligns with your personal style and the vibe of your wedding.

Still a little lost in the bridal gown lingo? Let’s dive a little deeper into the different wedding gown styles in the next post!

How to Choose The Right Wedding Gown For Your Body Type - Part 1