Gown Silhouettes

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            We know that finding your wedding gown can be a little stressful! There are so many unknowns when you first step foot into a bridal salon. What neck line will look good on me? What color is best with my skin tone? Will lace be too dramatic? Do I like flowers? - You get the idea.

Ball Gown 

            Here’s a tip we like to give our brides- on your first visit, set a goal to simply find the silhouette that fits you best. This will enable you to eliminate 2/3 of the gowns without having to take the time to try them all on. Here is a list of the silhouettes you will encounter on your visit.

A-line

            First we have the most formal and traditional wedding gown shape: the ball gown. This silhouette features a dramatically full skirt with a tight bodice. The style flatters pear shapes, full figures, and tall, slim builds. There are a few waistline variations to this silhouette including the natural waistline – hitting at the natural waist between the bottom of the ribs and the navel, the basque waistline- hitting 2-4 inches below the natural waistline and dipping into a “v” shape, and the dropped waistline – hitting mid to low on the hip.

Sheath

            The next silhouette is the a-line. True to its name, this silhouette creates an “A” shape by featuring a close fitting bodice and a gradually flaring skirt. This style typically flatters most figures.

Mermaid 

            Then we have the sheath silhouette. This shape fits closely to the body and features a straight skirt, following the body’s curves from top to bottom. The sheath gown typically flatters tall, slim builds and petite brides.

Trumpet 

            Last but certainly not least is the mermaid silhouette. This shape hugs the body through the hip before flaring at or below the knee. The mermaid silhouette typically flatters a tall, slim build. A variation to this shape is the trumpet silhouette which flairs at a less sever angle – also known as the fit ‘n flair.

            Hopefully this bit of information will make you feel a little more prepared when you walk through the doors to start trying dresses on!