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Find a Flattering Gown for Your Body Type


You've dreamed of your wedding day your entire life: You're in a Cinderella-style ball gown with a billowing skirt, floating down the aisle. But maybe you should have envisioned yourself in an empire waist dress. Wedding gowns come in tons of shapes and sizes; sifting through them for the right one can be a challenge

 

What's an empire waist?
gown_empirewaist

An empire waist hits just below the bust line. It's a very feminine look that carries a sense of history and richness. Figure-flattering empire waists look great on petite brides.
 
What's princess style?
gown_princesswaist

A princess style features a sleek bodice with two vertical seams that travel from bust to hem, adding height to any bride. If you're on the short side, this is a good option for you. The vertical lines are super slimming, which any bride, short or tall, can appreciate!
 
What is a sheath?
gown_sheath

A sheath is a fitted, straight dress that can be tapered from hip to hem. It's a very sleek look that shows every bump, so if you're larger in the hip and thigh area, this may not be your best bet. A tall, thin physique works well in a sheath, as does a short, curvy build.
 
What is a ball gown?
gown_ballgown

A ball gown features a fitted bodice and full bell-shaped skirt -- much like Cinderella's dress. It's a very popular wedding gown style and is probably the most traditional of the bunch. It hides a host of figure imperfections, while emphasizing a small waist.
 
What about an ankle-length gown?
gown_anklelength

An ankle-length gown gives its wearer a sort of whimsy, especially if it's a full skirt. It looks best on a petite bride but can work on anyone. If you're planning an afternoon wedding, its more casual style could be just right.
 
Should my dress and train coordinate with the ceremony style?

The more formal the wedding, the more formal the gown. If your wedding is informal or outdoors, look for something shorter. Trains come in three styles:

  • Short or court-length trains flow down 4 ½ feet from the waist.
  • Chapel-length trains flow 7 ½ feet from the waist.
  • Grand cathedral-length trains are anything longer.
  • Some of these trains are detachable, but choose the one which suits the formality of the wedding.
 
I'm a plus-size bride. What kind of dress should I buy to flatter my figure?

Don't fret while you look for the perfect wedding dress for you. Designers have caught on to the fact that not everyone is a perfect size 6, so although wedding dresses usually run small, plenty of beautiful, larger dresses are available. The following designers have created stunning dresses in size 20 and up:

  • The Diamond Collection
  • Jasmine
  • Alfred Angelo
  • Jim Hjelm
  • Sweetheart

Regrettably, most bridal shops don't carry larger size samples for you to try on. However, larger warehouse stores will probably have a selection of plus-size dresses for you to sample. Remember that your dress might cost between $40 to $150 more to pay for extra fabric needed.
 
How else can I look my best, other than finding a dress in the right plus-size?

To bring out your beauty as a larger bride on your wedding day, keep these tips in mind:

  • Choose the right fabric. The best fabric for your dress will probably be a lightweight chiffon, silk or satin. Stay away from clingy dresses made of crepe or jersey. Also, bulky fabrics like velvet and heavy satin will add bulk to your figure. For more flattering photos, choose a matte fabric instead of a shiny one.

     

  • Consider the shape of the dress. Pick a dress that comes straight down from the waist or the chest. A clean line will smooth out your curves. A-line dresses and empire waists are probably your best choice, while mermaid cuts (or anything fitted through the hips and thighs) should be avoided. If you're a plus-size petite, buy a dress with a Basque waist; it dips down in front, making your trunk appear longer.

     

  • Find a dress with long, fitted sleeves. Long sleeves work on voluptuous brides to hide stretch marks and add more straight, slimming lines. Avoid puffy sleeves; they'll just add bulk.

     

  • Accentuate your bust. Plus-size brides look great in low cut dresses, like scoop necks or V-necks. Remember to buy a supportive bra.

     

  • Accessorize wisely. Bring attention to your upper body with beautifully styled hair and a gorgeous veil. Frame your face with a classic set of pearls.

     

As you begin your search for the perfect dress, try on gowns of every style (even ones you're sure won't look right) and ask a friend or relative to help you decide which style is best. Once you narrow your search to two or three styles, you'll be able to focus your attention on the gowns' necklines, beadwork and material. Happy hunting!
 

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