Miles of Style: Choosing Your Sexiest Wedding Dress Silhouette

November 2, 2009

I have to be honest.  The first thing I did after (okay, okay even before) saying “YES” to my Mister was think about which wedding dress would have the unmistakable pleasure of escorting me around all day – hehe!  Like a little girl playing dress up, there was simply something magical that transpired when I stepped into each and every dress.  No matter what anyone says, you truly feel like a princess for a day, and no matter how many you try on, it never seems to get old.  So, please, do yourself a favor and ENJOY it.

Unfortunately, while I’m telling all you lovely ladies to enjoy it; some brides will undeniably start to feel a little anxious and slightly overwhelmed.  No worries, my dears!  If anything, find solace in the fact that you are not alone!  Sooooo many brides feel the exact same way, which is why it’s important to keep the following two things in mind… 

The first is to go about dress shopping the same way you go about making any other decision that ends well.  Stay calm, weigh the options, go with your gut and above everything else, have fun!  The second (and most important tip) is always always ALWAYS remember the man who’ll be waiting for you at the other end loves you for who you are, and if he’s anything like my dude, probably could care less if you came down in a spray painted white sack… because at the end of the day, you’ll be his Mrs. and he’ll be your Mr. 

With those two things in mind, something else to consider before hitting the stores is what suites your body the best.  Because you know what looks good and what doesn’t, you can help keep anxiety at bay by making it clear to the consultant which shapes flatter you most.  Martha Stewart Weddings as well as countless other sites do a great job at helping you gain knowledge and narrow choices.   Below is a list of 5 Classic Silhouettes of bridal gowns (as well as super pretty pictures!), which you can use to make a better, more informed decision:

# 1:  The Ball Gown

• Details: Often thought of as the Cinderella – dream come true – style, this dress epitomizes fairy tale fantasy.  Originally introduced by Queen Victoria in the 1840s and reinvented by famed designer, Christian Dior, in the 1950s, the ball gown has proven to be a classic bridal style that will always be in fashion. 
• Most Flattering On:  Women of average or slightly taller heights with hourglass or full figures generally look best.  Because the skirts can be super giant with a small waist (either natural or drop), a ball gown can sometimes overwhelm a super petite frame or look uneven on a more buxom beauty.
• Examples:

# 2:  The A-Line

• Details: One of the most universally known styles, the A-Line is rightfully named after the triangle shape it forms between the narrow waist and its wide bottom.  Due to its incredible versatility, the A-Line wedding dress is generally seen in a multitude of fabrics, designs and necklines.
• Most Flattering On:  Because the shape is accompanied by so many fabrics and necklines, it’s the “go-to” for most gals when they’re not sure what will look best.  All shapes from apples, pears and every fruit in between will most likely be able to look fabulous in A-Line!
• Examples:

# 3:  The Trumpet

• Details: Often referred to as the mermaid, the Trumpet gets its nickname because of the body hugging silhouette it provides.  Flared at the bottom for a couture look, a trumpet styled wedding gown oozes high fashion and confidence.
• Most Flattering On:  While the trumpet dress has a more form fitting look, it’s not just for super skinny waifs, like some might think.  Depending on the harshness of the dress’ cuts and lines, this style can be worn by a number of body types.  Girls with a more hourglass figure can look amazing in a trumpet dress with a “looser” fit and more flowing lines; while it can also look equally as appealing on smaller, less curvy frames when its trimmed “tighter” to give the illusion of curves. 
• Examples:

# 4:  The Empire

• Details: Made popular by Napoleon’s wife, Josephine, after the French Revolution, the romantically styled Empire dress is most noted for its high-waisted cut.  The Empire wedding dress is often accompanied by a straighter skirt, but it can also be completed with slightly flared of even A-Line skirts.  And while flowing fabrics first popularized it, it has now been seen several, “heavier” fabrics such as satin and charmeuse.
• Most Flattering On:  Because of the high waist and generally long, flowing silhouette, the Empire dress really accents the bust line and gives an easy flow to the rest of the body, making it ideal for small busted, petite women.
• Examples:

# 5:  The Sheath

• Details: Personified by Marilyn Monroe in the 1950s, the ultra chic Sheath has a slinky sex appeal, unmatched by any of the others.  Often crafted of whimsical and flowing fabrics, accompanied by darts, tucks and seams, the sheath wedding dress works great for both informal as well as destination settings.
• Most Flattering On:  Due to its curve hugging construction, the sheath dress is a fabulous choice for tall, slim women as well as petite cuties.  Women with narrow shoulders and wide hips should avoid the sheath, dependent upon the weight and drape of the fabric.
• Examples:

Filed under: Bridal Beauty Tips & Tricks,The Inside Track,Trends VS. Traditions

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