Shopping for a bridal gown can be extremely overwhelming, especially since there are so many beautiful options to choose from! Every bride is unique and we know that looking for a gown that is just as unique as you can seem like a daunting decision. One way to narrow down your choices is by focusing on your desired dress silhouette. Choosing the right silhouette can help emphasize your best body features and discretely hide the areas you prefer not to highlight. To help you find the perfect style, we have put together the following silhouette guide that walks through each dress style you will come across during your search for the bridal gown of your dreams!
Ballgown
This silhouette, also known as the “fairy tale” dress, is known for its full skirt, fitted bodice and natural waistline. The ballgown is ideal for most body types, but looks fabulous on pear shaped women since the fitted bodice defines your waist and hides the lower body. Petite women often avoid ballgowns because the skirt can be overwhelming on a small frame.
A-Line
The A-line cut features a fitted bodice through the waist and extends out along the body in the shape of an A. This style is known to be universally flattering and for that reason, it has become one of the most popular choices!
Fit and Flare
This silhouette hugs the body at the top and through the hips then flares out below the knee. Fit and flare gowns work best for brides looking to show off all their wonderful curves, especially since the cut hugs so closely to the hips and thighs.
Sheath
The Sheath silhouette is simple and sophisticated. This style looks the best on petite or slender brides because they benefit from the elongated lines and the more formfitting cut. Sheath dresses also look wonderful on women with an hourglass shape that are looking to show off their fabulous curves.
Column
The column dress is similar to the mermaid silhouette because the dress fits very closely to the contours of the body from head to toe! The elongated nature of this stunning style will help brides appear taller, especially more petite brides!
Modified A-Line
Similar to the A-line gown with it's fitted bodice, but the skirt fits much closer to the body in this fantastic silhouette! The skirt gradually flares to the hemline creating the "A shape." This style is ideal for all body types.
Trumpet/Mermaid
The trumpet and mermaid styles are very similar when it comes to being fitted throughout the body, but the trumpet silhouette is more features a more straight line bodice. The mermaid style is more curve hugging and the skirt flares out right above the knee! These tow styles are ideal for frames with smaller waists since the fit accentuates the stomach and hip area.