Wedding Gowns for Every Shape

The wedding date has been set and now you have to consider one of the most important decisions every bride has to face — finding a gown. Picking the perfect dress causes more anxiety than almost any other detail for one simple reason: You've been dreaming about the dress forever, and probably have preconceived notions of what you want. Avoid the pitfalls of shopping by letting go of unrealistic expectations and start looking for a style that's going to make you look as beautiful as you feel on your special day. Start by evaluating your body type, then take the following factors into account while you're searching. You'll be amazed at what a difference a few well-placed details can make.

Full Middle

The drape of your dress will enable you to draw attention away from a less than sculpted waist. If draping is more fabric than you favor, go with an A-line or empire silhouette that takes the focus off your middle. A wide or plunging V-neck works to create a narrower waistline by drawing the eyes in. Princess seams elongate the body for a leaner look. Avoid shapes and fabrics that cling, instead look for gowns that graze the body. Sheer, beaded or lace overlays that move with you are also elegant options.

Ample Hips

If you're bigger on the bottom, accent your upper half and keep it simple from the waist down. A strong neckline will help create balance. Look for square and off the shoulder styles. Or, go as bare as you dare in sleeveless or even strapless (remember a wrap if that will be too revealing for the ceremony). Use embellishments like beading, embroidery or even a subtle ruffle to draw the attention upwards. An empire waist or A-line will skim your body and create a slim silhouette.

Bountiful Bust

Whatever you choose, start by selecting something with sleeves or straps wide enough to hide your bra. You may even consider having snaps put in place to keep your straps from slipping. Portrait and sweetheart necklines with capsleeves flatter a fuller bosom. If you have your heart set on something bare, be sure to investigate strapless and/or halter bras before you buy. A ball gown or Princess style skirt will suit your body best. For something simpler, a bias cut dress with a slight flare at the bottom will maximize Marilynesque curves.

Petite

Proportion is everything when you're petite. Keep the silhouette simple and the details dainty. That doesn't mean you have to think small, just keep it close to the body to maximize your height and don't over-embellish (leave that to the accessories). If you want to go for a train, keep it short and look for something sheer that won't bring you down. Styles with strong waistlines will cut the body in half; instead, opt for a fitted bodice with a simple seam or slim belt. Vertical seaming also helps to create the illusion of height.

Tall and Lanky

Creating the illusion of curves is the key for you lanky ladies. Look for halter, draped or or V-necklines with details like beading or an overlay of lace or sheer fabric to maximize your bosom. Hug the body with a bias cut or all-over beading to create the illusion of an hourglass figure. Another option is to contrast colors or fabrics on top and bottom. Keep the silhouette simple, a voluminous skirt, multiple tiers and ruffles or anything too frou-frou may disrupt your elegant stature. Stand up straight and proud.