7 Hints For Shopping For Your Ideal Bridal Gown
Oct 2nd, 2008 by Eran Malloch
It can be difficult to find a flattering bridal gown, even if you’re tall and thin. If you’re less stylishly shaped, like a pear shape, hourglass, or apple, or if you’re petite, finding the right dress can be a real trial.
Anyone who’s a non standard shape, plus sized, or can’t find anything that fits shouldn’t give up yet. Look in specialty boutiques and non bridal stores, and develop a good working knowledge of what looks good on you to get the right gown for your wedding. Most women fall into one of a few shape categories - here they are, along with what to wear for each.
Classic hourglass - When your bust and hip measurements are similar and your waistline is strongly defined, you’re an hourglass. Statistically, you’re also probably over a size fourteen, making shopping for bridal dresses tricky. The good news is that many styles work well for this shape, including well supported strapless gowns.
Pear shape - If you have larger hips and a smaller bust, you’re shaped like a pear or spoon. Balancing the top half of the body with the bottom half by adding interest is the best strategy when choosing a bridal gown. Many of the rules for hourglass shapes apply here, but look for detailing in the bodice to draw the eye up.
Apple shapes - If you tend to have similarly sized hips and bust, but have a poorly defined waist, your shape is called an apple. Empire waists, when used with long full skirts, can help you de-emphasize your waist and hips. Don’t choose a short bridal gown in this style, however - you could look pregnant!
Petite - Women under 165 cm tall are considered petite, and have their own set of bridal gown challenges. Look for a gown that doesn’t overwhelm you with detailing and ruffles, and avoid very slim, straight dresses. If you do choose a simple dress of this kind, think about wearing a more elaborate headdress to go with it.
Plus size - Plus sized women have a lot of trouble finding bridal gowns that aren’t just sized up from other patterns for smaller women. These dresses almost always have fitting issues. Skip them, and look for a bridal gown boutique that specializes in your size - you’ll find them online and in larger cities.
Flattering dresses are important when you choose a gown. However, knowing what styles look good isn’t all there is to it. Keep track of the way different brands fit, so you’ll know which ones to choose and which not to wear.
Of course, if you’re having lots of problems, you can always have a wedding dress customized or made specially to fit you. This is a lot less costly than you might think, and you’ll be sure to look great. However, give your seamstress or tailor plenty of time - up to a year - so you’ll get the perfect bridal gown for your big day.
