Austin WeddingDay Articles of Interest

Mark this down as the umpteenth article you’ve read about wedding dresses. Everyone else seems to have the answer as to what type of wedding dress will look best on you, and they can sum it all up in a two-page article.

The advice keeps rolling in, and you’re so overwhelmed by all the opinions, that it is hard for you to tell if you have found “the dress”. The fact is, you aren’t going to truly know what you like until you try on several different gowns. What you are wearing when you walk down that aisle should be a direct reflection of your personality and unique style. Let’s face it brides, you are the final judge when it comes to choosing your gown and the advice of others is helpful, but it’s only useful to a point.

It’s not just a dress; it’s an image, a keepsake, and an incredible feeling that gives you goose bumps every time you think about it. There is nothing more beautiful than a bride in all her splendor as she walks down the aisle to be united with the man of her dreams. Most women want to feel like a princess on their wedding day.

These are the high expectations that brides have as they search for their gown. With all this in mind, how does a bride begin to find this amazing dress? She knows what she envisions, but will that type and style look incredible on her?  

The goal after reading this article is to become informed. The facts are useful, but should not limit what the bride likes or dislikes. Remember that you are the final critic when it comes to selecting your gown. Just because one certain style is not recommended for your particular figure doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try this style at the boutique and decide for yourself. 

When selecting the perfect wedding dress, deciding on the type of silhouette is a great place to start. This is the overall look of the wedding gown, and most dresses can be categorized into the following three types of silhouettes.

Ball Gown

The ball gown is the traditional wedding dress shape. When you think of Cinderella or Princess Diana on their wedding days, this is the style of dress they modeled. The fitted bodice, leading to the puffiest skirt known to mankind, characterizes this silhouette. This style of dress will accommodate almost any bridal figure, although, it is not recommended for petite brides. Too much dress and not enough bride can lead to an overwhelming look that smaller women want to avoid.

A-Line

The A-line gown is a beautiful shape that flatters all types of bridal figures. This silhouette is known for its slimming waist that flares out to a wider hemline. The remarkable feature of this gown is its adaptability. The A-line dress is suitable for the bride that plans an elaborate wedding and is also suitable for the bride that plans a more casual wedding day. While combining these excellent features, don’t be surprised if this silhouette becomes your favorite.

Sheath

The sheath is the most difficult silhouette to wear, but is absolutely stunning when coupled with the right figure. Brides be aware, you can hide nothing in this dress. The sheath gown closely hugs the bride’s figure line from top to bottom. This silhouette best compliments those brides who are tall and lean, as well as those brides who are petite and slender. 

Another important characteristic of a wedding dress is the neckline. Once you have decided on the silhouette of choice, the numerous versions of necklines bring variation to the silhouette types. Selecting the perfect neckline enhances the bride’s features from her waist upward. Read further for essential information on various necklines.

Strapless

The name describes this neckline to a “T”. This popular style is generally cut as a straight neckline, although, brides may see a slight variation to this rule as they peruse through the boutiques. As a side note, many times dresses with straps can be converted to strapless with some simple alterations. Strapless dresses look elegant and beautiful on just about everyone, however smaller busted brides may find themselves having a wardrobe malfunction with this style of neckline.

Spaghetti Strap

Similar to the strapless neckline, the spaghetti strap design brings a little more safety to brides wanting to let loose on the reception dance floor. The thin straps that secure the bodice portion of the dress characterize this neckline. Spaghetti strap gowns are an outstanding selection for slender brides, but the larger-busted brides may need to consider other styles that offer them more support.

Scoop

Amazing on all bridal figures, the scoop neckline is shaped like a “U”. Both modern and modest brides will enjoy this cut, as the scoop neckline can rest conservatively above the bust-line or can rest daringly low to allow a hint of cleavage. A caution to the well endowed, too low of a scoop neckline may look as though the bride is spilling out of the dress.

Square

The square is a variation of the scoop neckline, but with obvious straight-line definition. This style provides bustier brides with the support they are wanting, but is equally flattering for all body types. Those looking for a more classic, conservative look will adore the square neckline.

Off-The-Shoulder

Scarlet O’Hara come on down! The off-the-shoulder neckline radiates romance and features a bride’s shoulders and collar bone area. This style is a great solution to those brides who do not enjoy the exposure of the strapless, but want a similar feel. The additional coverage brought by the off-shoulder straps provides the needed support for the well endowed. It is suggested that brides with broad shoulders stay away from off-the-shoulder necklines. If you can throw a mean curve ball, consider the scoop or square necklines instead.

Sweetheart

The sweetheart neckline was made for bustier brides. Resembling the shape of a heart, this style meets in the middle and ends in a point. Brides lacking in the cleavage area may discover better luck with other necklines.

Halter

Unique and contemporary, the halter neckline displays thicker straps that start at the top of the bodice and meet at the back of the neck. Brides who have spent time at the gym toning their shoulders and arms will discover the halter as the perfect opportunity to show off their hard work.

Bateau

The bateau neckline (also called the Sabrina) rests high on the collarbone and is straight-lined. Wonderfully elegant for smaller busted brides, this neckline gives the appearance of a larger bust area. Broad-
shouldered brides should shy away from this neckline as it draws attention to the ­shoulders. 

The final element of a wedding dress to consider is the waistline. This is a significant detail to consider as a bride selects her wedding dress. Different features of the waistline, like any dress, can accentuate areas that a bride may want to conceal. Aspiring waistline aficionados, continue reading for the vital facts.

Basque

The Basque waistline is known for its slimming capabilities. This cut begins at the hips and lowers below the natural waistline to a point a couple inches below the navel. These features add length to the torso area, slimming the tummy and providing a sleek look. The Basque waistline is ideal for the pear-shape bride.

Dropped

Resting just below the waistline, the dropped style is commonly paired with A-line and ball gown silhouettes. Most necklines look radiant with the dropped waist. The characteristic of this style enhances curves, and is equally flattering for brides with either thick or slender waists.

Natural

Women with an hourglass figure are definitely attracted to the natural waistline because it draws attention to their best features. This type falls directly at the waist and is stunning on various bridal figures.

Empire

The empire cut is determined by the high waistline. This style displays a fitted bust area and a waist that begins at the bottom of the bust line. The dress then extends into a wider, flared hemline. Ideal for brides with a thick waist area, the empire is quite slimming as the fabric subtly embraces a bride’s curves. Women with wider hips or a larger bust may discover the empire waist is least flattering. 

It is official! You are now an informed bride ready to tackle the dilemmas and joys of wedding gown shopping. The facts enclosed in this article are useful, but should not limit your likes or dislikes. The bride is the ultimate judge when it comes to finding “the dress”. Just because one certain style is not recommended for your particular figure, by all means, try this style at the bridal salon just to make sure you agree. After all, sometimes trying the uncomplimentary dresses will enhance the excitement when finding the dress that is perfect for your special day.