Finding the Perfect Wedding Dress
Finding the perfect gown that flatters the future brides figure while stunning her guests and soon-to-be husband is a labor of love for many brides.
The Bridal Association of America estimates a bride to be will spend between $1500 and $2000 total on her gown, veil and accessories.
Brides often spend months, if not years, shopping for the right gown. Finding the right gown means having an understanding of what silhouettes are available and what flatters certain body types.
After all, you want to look like the best version of yourself when getting married.
Gowns come in many shapes, the Ballgown shape is a classic style, evoking images of fairy tale princesses. With a fitted bodice and a full skirt that flairs at the waist, this silhouette is usually good for all body types. Because the full skirt, typically proofed-up by crinoline and will hide the hips and thighs, women with a pear shape might gravitate toward this style. The Ballgown style may not be ideal for petite women, as the skirt may overwhelm their figure.
The A-line dress is another silhouette that is very forgiving or appropriate for many body types. A-line cut dresses should be the go-to style for anyone looking to minimize perceived flaws. The cut of the dress will fit to the waist and gradually fan out from the hips to form the outline of an uppercase “A.” When in doubt, A-line gowns are classic and sensible and a favorite among brides.
The Trumpet gown suits women who prefer something a little more form-fitting. This dress is fitted through the body and then the gown flares out at mid-thigh level. Women with taught stomachs and hourglass figures can benefit from this style of gown, but those who do not want anything too tight in the hips and thighs will want to select something else.
The Mermaid gown is a bit more fitted than the Trumpet, this silhouette is close to the body from the chest down to the knee. The skirt then flares out slightly be the knee. Tall, thin women generally look best in this type of gown.
The Modified A-line is a balance between a traditional A-line and a more fitted gown, the Modified A-line does not flare out as much. But it does flare out enough from the waist to hide areas around the hips and thighs. This is another good choice for a wide array of figures.
The Tea Length gown is for brides who do not want a full length gown that reaches the floor can opt for a tea length dress, on which the skirt generally falls between the ankle and the knee.
The Sheath gown is for lean brides who want simplicity. The narrow shape of the gown from the neckline to the hem will definitely accentuate the body shape. Therefore, women who are shy may want to choose another style dress. Petite women who may be overwhelmed by more fabric can usually wear a sheath gown with success.
Although a bride may have a wedding gown style in mind, it is always a good idea to find the most flattering fit by trying on a number of different styles.
Bridal salon employees are usually knowledgeable and well versed in matching body types to a gown and can prove invaluable when selecting the dress.
In Fort Worth and Dallas, David’s Bridal often has a sale rack with many styles to choose from.
