Finding the perfect wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning, but with so many styles to choose from, it can feel overwhelming. The key to saying "yes" to the dress? Choosing a silhouette that not only flatters your body type but also makes you feel confident and beautiful on your big day.
While you may have a specific style in mind, keeping an open mind can lead to unexpected favorites. Trying different silhouettes allows you to discover what truly enhances your best features while ensuring you feel comfortable and radiant.
To make your search easier, we’ve put together a guide to the most popular wedding dress styles and the body types they complement – but keep in mind that every body type can wear every silhouette, and ultimately, finding the dress that you feel most beautiful in is most important. Read on to find the perfect gown that makes you feel like the best version of yourself on your wedding day!
Wedding Dress Silhouettes Handbook
Hourglass Shape: Show Off Those Curves
If your bust and hips are proportionate with a defined waist, embrace styles that highlight your natural shape. Mermaid, Trumpet, and Fit-and-Flare gowns hug your curves in all the right places, creating a stunning silhouette. A Basque waist gown is another great option, offering structure while enhancing your shape.
Pear Shape: Balance and Elegance
Brides with a pear-shaped body often have a goal to create balance. A-Line and Ball Gown styles cinch at the waist and flare out, drawing attention upward for a beautifully proportioned look. Bodices with lace or embellishments can also help highlight the upper body.
Apple Shape: Define the Waistline
For an apple-shaped body, dresses that provide structure and definition at the waist are key. Empire waist gowns are a great choice, as they create a lengthening effect while maintaining a balanced look. A-Line dresses with a structured bodice can also add shape in a flattering way.
Athletic Shape: Add Feminine Curves
Brides with a straighter, more evenly distributed figure can enhance curves with the right silhouette. Dresses with ruching, draping, or voluminous skirts—like Ball Gowns or A-Line styles—add dimension and shape. A Basque waistline can also create the illusion of a more defined waist.
Find Your Dream Dress at The Dress Shop
No matter your body type, the perfect wedding dress is out there—and we’re here to help you find it! At The Dress Shop, we offer a stunning selection of bridal gowns in a variety of silhouettes, fabrics, and styles to match your unique vision.
Ready to find “the one”? Book an appointment with our expert bridal consultants today and let us help you say "yes" to your dream dress!