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The Perfect Gown for an Imperfect Body

If only we could all look like Heidi Klum or Gisele Bundchen.  Alas, most brides happen to only be human, and thus unable to look like a supermodel in every wedding gown they try on.  Here are a few tips for finding the perfect style for your body type.

GOWN TYPE

Mermaid:

A mermaid dress is fitted from the chest down, and flares out right above, below, or at the knee.  They can be slinky or highly constructed, but no matter what material it’s made of, it will show off and accentuate every single curve.  The silhouette is very sexy, but the dress calls for a bride who is very comfortable in their skin.  It best suits a slender figure, tall or short.  It emphasizes the butt, hips, and stomach.

Ball Gown:

A ball gown has a fitted bodice with a full skirt.  It gives the classic Cinderella vibe and is fabulous at hiding troublesome areas below the waist.  The fitted bodice contrasts with the full skirt to emphasize (or give the allusion) of a small waist.  They can be found with natural or dropped waists, depending on how comfortable you are with your midsection.  This style is especially flattering on pear shapes.  Keep in mind that if you are on the short side, this dress will probably make you appear even shorter.    

Empire:

An empire gown has a waistline that sits right below the bust, flowing softly down from there.  It’s great for small busts because of the waistline placement, adding extra support and emphasis to the bust line.  It’s flattering for most body types, making it a favorite for brides.  It easily hides long torsos, short legs, and comes in all sleeve forms.  It also is a favorite for pregnant brides as it can either emphasize or hide a baby bump.  On the other hand, it can accent a pouchy tummy in ways that may have your guests wondering if there’s a baby on board, so steer clear if your tummy is your problem area, and opt for a gown that highlights another feature. 

A-Line/Princess: 

This gown is fitted on the bust and flows out naturally from there, with no waist definition.  It is by far the most flattering gown to all body types as it gives a soft and smooth silhouette.  It can give the allusion of height to shorter bodies, create fabulous curves on narrow body frames, and smooths out unwanted curves on full figured bodies. 

GOWN ACCENTS

Corset Bodice:

This style is great for sucking in the midsection, smoothing the silhouette, and lifting the bust.  It is also great for creating curves and a bust for narrow and flat frames. 

 

Backless:

The most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a backless dress is your bust size.  It’s almost impossible to wear a bra with this seductive look, so if you need the support of a bra, opt for a dress with a dip in the back, which is easily accommodated by bras and corsets sold at bridal shops and lingerie stores.  Even if you have a small or extremely perky bust, make sure to get cups or pasties to avoid embarrassing, chilly, moments. 

 

Halter:

This style is great for larger busts as it gives added support.  It also can add a little extra oomph to those with smaller busts.  Be careful if you have broad shoulders, as this style tends to emphasize the shoulder width. 

Strapless:

Staying power!  Make sure it stays up!  Try the strapless gown on with the bra you’ll be wearing and then jump around a little, wiggle your hips, bend over, raise your arms, and walk around.  If it stays, then great!  If it starts to shimmy down, you’ll spend your entire wedding yanking it up, so make sure the fit is snug.  Strapless gowns tend to flatten the bust, which can be great for those to want to steer the attention away from their bosom, but not so great for those who want to add more definition up top. 

Bodice Length:

Where the bodice stops and the skirt starts can make the difference between a marshmallow and a princess.  The gown should be fairly fitted at least three inches below your bust.  Soft, flowing, white silks, satins, and laces are beautiful, but if you don’t have definition in there somewhere, your body will get lost and you’ll end up having the dreaded marshmallow effect.