It’s a brides much anticipated debut down the white carpet. Family and friends all come together to see you and everyone is waiting for the doors to swing open and the music to start. Just like the celebrities on the red carpet, everyone wants to know “What is she wearing?!”. So for your big debut, get ready to choose your gown and be fabulous every step of the way!
Too often brides make choices based on pretty dresses they see in magazines, on mannequins or in person at the bridal boutique. No thought is given to whether the chosen dress is really appropriate for her body shape. So I wanted to share with you the various wedding silhouettes in wedding gowns. Silhouette means the overall cut of the gown. It’s the most vital element to focus on, because a gown’s shape is its foundation & generally sets the mood for the entire look. Familiarize yourself with the general terms of dresses before you go dress shopping.
1. Empire Waist. A high waistline that lies just below the bust, & then the rest of the dress falls straight down to the hem. Empire waists are best for brides who are slender on top or petite because the style creates an illusion of length. It is also good for hiding a bottom-heavy figure or thicker waist.
2. A-Line. A slight flare in the skirt starts from a narrow waist or from the shoulders. Streamlined & flattering, A-Lines are ideal for highlighting a narrow waist & skimming over thighs. Popular because it’s flattering on most figure types.
3. Sheath. A sheath is form fitting to the natural curves of your body, but does not have a determinant shape like a defined A-line or empire waist. It’s more free-flowing & often used with lighter, sheer fabrics. Romantic style and looks best on brides with tall, slim figures.
4. Mermaid. Fits closely to the body from the chest to the knee, then flares out to the hem. It’s great for brides who want to show off their curves!
4. Ballgown. Fitted at the bodice and has a waistline that leads to a full skirt. Pleats or gathers in the skirt are what makes it a ballgown. For formal weddings and for brides who may want to hide their hips.
5. Trumpet. Fits closely to the body until mid-hip and then widens gradually to the hem (resembling the mouth of a trumpet). Often confused with the mermaid style gown, but the trumpet flare from mid-hip whereas the mermaid flares below the knee.
