Understanding the Shapes of Gowns

Now that you understand color a bit more, take the time to consider the basic shapes of wedding gowns so that you can choose a dress that flatters your figure.

Ball Gown

This is truly the fairytale version of a wedding gown. It is fitted on the upper body and has a full, bell shaped skirt that often features layers of tulle or a hoop so that the dress is as wide and swingy as possible. A ball gown can flatter a variety of figures if you choose the right one. Whether you are full figured, pear shaped or slender, a ball gown can look fabulous.

If you are thin, keep the embellishments toned down so that the dress doesn’t overwhelm you. Even a petite bride can wear a ball gown as long as the skirt isn’t too heavy. Rich satins or heavy brocades can weight a petite figure down.

A-Line

The classic A-line dress looks like it sounds – the dress will form an “A” shape that is almost universally flattering. An A-line dress will be fitted on the upper body with a skirt that flares out gently from the waist. It isn’t as full as a ball gown because it doesn’t have the multitude of gathers at the waist that a ball gown has.

Almost any figure type can wear an A-line gown. Try several versions on to see whether you want a sweetheart neckline, a strapless version or one with long, fitted sleeves. The beauty of an A-line dress lies in its versatility – it looks wonderful with almost any neckline.

Empire

Empire gowns generally have small, cap sleeves, but their defining feature is the waist, which is much higher than on other gowns. Rather than falling at your natural waistline, an Empire gown is fitted just under the bustline and then softly skims the rest of the body.

Empire gowns are perfect for small busted women, as they draw the eye upward and give added definition to the bust. These gowns are also very attractive on women with little or no define waistline and on petite women. The long line from bust to the gown’s hem can add height to a woman with short legs or a short waist. Ladies with an hourglass figure may want to avoid this style, as the straight line from the bust may be snug over the hips.

Sheath

Sheath dresses are cut close to the body all the way down, creating a smooth, elegant line that is particularly suited to an evening wedding. It has a sort of Hollywood glamour that is very much in demand for today’s brides. Many sheaths are made of material cut on the bias so that it drapes beautifully and clings to your curves.

A sheath is lovely on a bride with an hourglass figure (as long as you aren’t too top-heavy) and adds a bit of feminine curve to thin or petite bride. Short-waisted or pear shaped brides should avoid sheath wedding gowns, as they will only emphasize these attributes.

Mermaid

The mermaid gown is relatively new to the wedding scene but has become very popular for brides who want a contemporary or trendy style. These form-fitting gowns fit like a sheath to the knees, where the dress then flares out.

If you have a great figure, a mermaid gown can certainly show it off. If you have a thick waist or are pear shaped, the mermaid style isn’t your best choice. Petite women can pull it off if the dress is relatively simple and if the flared ruffle at the bottom of the gown is properly proportioned.

You are the only one who can decide which gown is the perfect wedding dress for you, but the tips outlined above can help you narrow your search to the best colors and shapes for your figure.

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