A Perfect Fit
Michelle Rainer
Wedding gowns come in an endless array of styles and cuts. When shopping, keep in mind that it’s not important to find the perfect dress—it’s important to find the perfect dress for you.
This guide will help you determine the elements that show off your best features and disguise the ones you’d rather hide.
Petite Frame:
Stay away from elaborate or voluminous dresses that will overwhelm your small frame. An elongating column or sheath is an elegant choice that will give the illusion of height. Try a princess cut or trumpet style, both of which have no waistlines and draw the eye upward with unbroken vertical panels in the front and back. (The trumpet style is a slimmer fit than the princess cut.)
Avoid drop and empire waist gowns. If the dress has a waistline, make sure it falls at your natural waist. And of course, don’t forget about the shoes. If you can walk without wobbling, a three or four-inch heel is an instant fix.
Short-waisted:
To maximize the distance between your hips and your ribs, a princess-cut with a flared skirt and fitted bust will elongate your torso. A portrait or sweetheart neckline will frame your face and draw the eye upward. Avoid sheath dresses, as they will draw attention to this area.
Thick-waisted:
Try an empire cut to draw the eye upward and take attention away from your middle. If you would like to wear a nipped waist style and don’t mind being a bit uncomfortable, experiment with corsets and other undergarments designed to fake a tiny waistline.
Full-figured:
Avoid sheaths and dresses with spaghetti straps. An A-line or ball gown with a flared skirt will accentuate your waist and help balance the silhouette. If you have large breasts, opt for a simple neckline free of fussy details. Above all, never wear satin or other shiny fabrics—they make everything look bigger.
Few wedding dresses are made with long sleeves, but surprisingly, going strapless or wearing small cap-sleeves can actually make arms look smaller. Those who are self-conscious about their arms might also try a see-through wisp of lace or netting called an illusion sleeve. If you really can’t stand to bare your arms, cover up with a wrap or shrug.
Thin Frame:
You will find most cuts flatter your figure. If you lack curves and would like to appear more voluptuous, try a ruched bust or a V-neck. A ball gown that poofs at the hips and nips in at the waist is a classic way to fake an hourglass figure, as is a princess dress with a full skirt. Another fashionable option is a drop waist tied with a ribbon or sash.
Pear-shaped Figure:
Many women are smaller on top and heavier on the bottom. To even out your proportions, choose a dress that emphasizes your upper body. An empire waist is a flattering option. Or try a horizontal or square neckline to widen the shoulders. Avoid sheaths, V-necks, and dresses with a lot of detail on the skirt, as they will all draw the eye downward.
Hourglass Figure
For those lucky enough to have curves in all the right places, an A-line gown or a dress with a fitted waist will show off your feminine silhouette.
Stay away from sheaths and necklines that cut straight across the chest – they will not flatter your figure at its best. Empire cuts and puffy ball gowns should also be avoided, as they may make you look too heavy on the top or bottom.
Alterations
Gaping necklines, tight sleeves, and too-long hems don’t look good on anyone. No matter what your body type, proper tailoring is essential to show your figure off.
Make sure that all seams lie flat, that you have enough room to move your arms comfortably, and are able to take a deep breath in and out without feeling constricted.
And lastly, never buy a dress that is too small because you are planning to lose a few pounds before the big day. It is easier to have a dress taken in than it is to have the seams let out. If your dress is long, make sure the hem lies about an inch from the floor so you don’t trip.