Photo: Alicia Shields

The ring has been bought, the question popped and now the fun begins….finding the perfect dress!  But before you try on dresses that don’t flatter your figure, take some time to review these do’s and don’ts of finding the right dress for your shape.

Remember: Your actual body type will remain the same even if you’re planning to drop 20 pounds before exchanging vows.  With that in mind, choose the gown that fits your body type today.

Got an Hourglass Figure?  Do you have a big chest, big hips, and a thin waist?  Yes? Then an A-line wedding dress with a dropped waist will show off your figure perfectly! For an even more flattering look pair your gown with a sweetheart neckline to show off your chest. Want something a little more daring if you are on the  curvaceous side?  Try a fit-and-flare gown like a mermaid or trumpet style and your curves will knock ‘em dead!  But don’t get too carried away.  Run from A ball gown or Empire-waist silhouette that may make you look disproportioned.

Are you Short Waisted?  Or is your body naturally proportioned, except for the small distance from your ribs to your hips? Your best bet is probably a Princess-line silhouette – a gown that is fitted at the bodice and opening up gradually to a full skirt.  This will elegantly elongate your figure.  Your neckline of choice would be a portrait or halter neckline to show off your shoulders.  If this doesn’t suit your taste, try a slightly dropped-waist gown.  This type of gown will also lengthen your torso. Stay away from a sheath gown that will accentuate your short waist.

Is your Waist Thick?  The rules of a short waisted gown apply but instead of a short waist, yours is not as clearly defined.  The line from your shoulders to your hips is straight.  Don’t lose heart!  An Empire-waist wedding dress will deemphasize your waistline and give you a long, lean look.  For you, your best bet is to steer clear of a Princess-line or basque waist.  Both of these styles will draw too much attention to your middle.

Are you a Full Figure?  You are probably more voluptuous than most.  You’ve got full breasts, a bit of a tummy, as well as round hips and butt.  The gown for you will probably be a ball gown wedding dress.  This style of gown will hide quite a bit.  Also, remember an A-line silhouette looks great on everyone.   Just try to avoid a sheath gown.  This will make you look heavier than you are.  Also, avoid spaghetti straps.

Is your Body Pear Shaped?  Are you small on top and heavy on the bottom?  A basque waist or strapless ball gown will cover your bottom half and draw the focus on your better half.  An Empire dress is also a safe bet for you.  It will hug the tiniest part of your body and disguise your lower half.   Run away from the sheath type of gown.  A sheath, frankly, will be unflattering. Also, a trumpet- or mermaid-style gown will draw attention to your bottom.

Are you Thin?  No matter if you’re short or tall, there’s not a whole lot of meat on your bones.   Your perfect style of dress is a ball gown.  A ball gown will make you look like a fairy-tale princess.  Another style of dress that will complement your figure perfectly is a sheath dress.  Almost all silhouettes will flatter your figure, but stay away from portrait, off-the-shoulder, or halter necklines if your collarbone is too bony.

And last but not least…Is your body type Petite?  You’re probably not the star of the basketball team.  You’re body has a tiny frame.  For you, your best bet is to keep it simple.  When you’re small, a big, elaborate gown can sometimes look as if it’s wearing you rather than the other way around. A sheath or A-line dress will work well.  Keep in mind, almost all silhouettes will flatter your figure, though a big ball gown may overwhelm.

Have fun as you prepare to find the perfect gown for your big day!  Advantage Bridal wants to help you in every way possible!