Aug 18, 20212 min read

Our Favourite Wedding Dress Silhouettes Explained

Wedding dress shopping can be super overwhelming, you have so many options when it comes to neckline, train length, fabric, lace type, sleeves - the list is endless! So to help get you started on your search I've narrowed down the different dress silhouettes into three main categories. Understanding which silhouettes best compliment your body type and personal style are going to make saying 'yes' to the dress that much easier.

The A-line

Let's start with A-line, the universally flattering favourite. This silhouette looks incredible on all body types. It is fitted around the bodice and flares out at the waist forming a soft A shape - where it gets its name from. This style is great for emphasising and nipping you in at the waist.

This could be your dress silhouette if: you want to cinch in your waist and have a classic bridal look. This dress accentuates pretty much every body type.

This might not be your dress silhouette if: you want to show off more of your body shape.

The Fit and Flare

The fit and flare category encompasses everything from an exaggerated mermaid skirt to a more toned-down trumpet fit. These dresses are figure hugging from chest to knee and flare out from then on. A mermaid skirt is is a much fuller skirted version of a trumpet skirt, the more volume in the skirt, the more dramatic the look. This dress type is perfect for showing off your curves. It hugs your hips making it a great option for brides with a larger bust looking to balance out their silhouette.

This could be your dress silhouette if: you want to accentuate and show off your curves, or create the illusion of curves!

This might not be your dress silhouette if: you like to break out into flamboyant dance moves and you're worried about moving around and navigating stairs on your big day.

The Ball Gown

The ball gown is the quintessential fairy tale princess wedding dress. This silhouette is super fitted around the bodice and has a very voluminous skirt, typically made of layers of tulle. A dress like this is super flattering as it accentuates the waist and hides the lower body.

This could be your dress silhouette if: you are looking for that fairytale wedding dress.

This might not be your dress silhouette if: you are a petite bride, the skirt can overwhelm you and make you appear shorter.

The general trick is to draw attention to your favourite features. Walk into your bridal appointment with a rough idea of the types of dresses you think you'll like but keep an open mind, often brides pick a dress quite different from the dress they imagined. As bridal stylists, we can advise and make suggestions based on body shape, but as the bride you will know the style that makes you feel the most confident and comfortable. The dress that makes you feel the most like YOU!

I hope you've found this little wedding dress silhouette summary helpful, happy shopping!