Best Gown for Bridal Body Types

You’ve probably been trying on your “dream dresses” and thinking that they haven’t been making you look too “dreamy!”

Sometimes what appears gorgeous in bridal catalogues or on mannequins may not really complement us at all!

Fear not, most of us out there have a few trouble spots with our body that we would rather camouflage! When in search of the perfect gown or attire, a good place to start is within your own wardrobe.

Make notes about your favourite outfits and what others have said flatters you most, for example, have people told you that have: an elegant neck? shapely legs? a tiny waist? Toned arms?

If you apply this basic principle when buying your gown, it may be easier to find one that will give you a sleek, polished image that remains true to the real you.

Here are some common issues and a few solutions, in terms of fit, cut and fabric:

Petite brides can elongate their bodies with A-line styled dresses or dresses which are slim-fitting or have clean lines that don’t feature too much fabric or large-scale detailing, for example huge bows or rosettes. It is best to avoid dresses with excessively large skirts, since this will overpower and make petite brides appear shorter. Petite brides should also stay away from dresses with drop waists and dresses that are calf-length, since this also shortens the body line.

Plus-sized brides
Plus-size dresses generally start in the size 16 (American sizing) range and go up from there. Just because you’re plus-sized doesn’t mean you have to cover every inch of your body with fabric!
On the contrary, a strapless dress or a low back, will be more figure-enhancing, than for example, a high neckline with long sleeves ( unless this is required by your religion).  Stiffer fabrics or thicker fabrics such as Duchess satin and blended silks are good options for plus-size brides; versus clingy fabrics like: crepes, silk and charmeuse. Chiffon – a fabric that can float away from certain parts of the body can also be a good option. Try as much as possible to get the best quality fabric that fits your budget.

Slim, tall brides – can add a bit of figure fullness with bustled skirts, peplums, tiered gowns, moderate use of ruffles and with the use of embroidered or beaded fabrics.

Chunky upper arms: If you want to minimise the look of your arms, you can opt for sheer sleeves or three quarter-length sleeves. If you perspire a lot, long sleeves may keep you quite warm unless your ceremony and reception venue has ample air-conditioning. If you’d like to go strapless, you can use a shrug, wrap or bolero.

Not-so-flat tummy: Select a dress that draws attention away from your mid-section, perhaps one with an intricate neckline. Another good tip is to choose a dress with a “basque” or drop waist; or a dress that features side-draping which will slant diagonally across your body, These options can give the illusion of a longer, leaner silhouette.  Corseted dresses also work wonders to minimize puffy tummies!

Wide hips and thighs: If you don’t want to emphasize your hip area, it may be best to stay away from excessively fitted dresses or clingy fabrics. An empire-waisted dress or an A-line shaped dress will successfully hide your trouble area or you can simply choose a skirt that will fall wider than your shoulder width.

Fuller busts: Brides with full busts should invest in dresses that feature built-in corsets which will taper the waist and the bust line. Other flattering options are the: off-the-shoulder style, sweetheart strapless dresses, halter neck lines, scoop neck lines or a narrow skirt. Alternatively, these brides can opt to cover up more in front, in exchange for having an interesting back view – such as an illusion back or a wide key-hole to the back.

For more ideas, check out the Trinidad Weddings Bridal Fashion board on Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/trinidadwedding/bridal-fashion/