There are so many wedding dress styles and looks out there to match any wedding theme or personal taste that it can really get confusing!
So, if you've just gotten engaged, where exactly do you begin when you're searching for that perfect dress?
The best advice I can give you is to go out and try on as many wedding dress styles as you can.... without driving the salesgirl nuts!
Even though you may have a certain dress in mind, maybe one you've seen in a bridal magazine or on TV, you'll
never know if it will look good on you unless you try it on.
A good place to start is to understand the
5 basic wedding dress styles. Then you'll have a better idea of what direction you should go....and you'll
know what the heck the saleslady is talking about!
The 5 Basic Wedding Dress Styles:
A-Line
The A-line is probably the most common of the wedding dress styles because it can flatter
any body type and it's a less dramatic version of the
Princess Dress style.
The A-line design is shaped like the letter 'A', just like its name, so it's fitted through the waist then flares out below.
It really is a great classic looking dress because it looks good on any body style. Brides looking for
petite wedding dresses can't miss with an A-Line design.
It can hide large hips or the stomach area if needed but also if you're skinny it'll give you the illusion of having fabulous curves.
The neckline can be virtually anything you want....sweetheart, V-shape, square you name it,
and you can also have your choice of strapless, spaghetti straps or long sleeves.
The empire style is defined as only fitted just under the bust line.
This style gown is usually very fluid and romantic which means the fabric will be a lighter material like chiffon or light satin that can flow easily
with movement like this Empire Satin V-Gown.
A square neck line empire dress works great if you are looking for a
full figured wedding gown
or maternity wedding dress because it flatters the larger bust area while concealing the larger body shape below the waist line.
A V-neck empire style can also enhance your bust line if you are small chested by creating a fuller breasted look.
Column
The column wedding dress styles features a straight line from the neckline to the hem.
It really flatters slender girls, both tall or short,
by creating a statuesque appearance.
If you are larger or are intending to hide some 'problem areas', then you should probably stay away from this style
as it is not so good at hiding your little secrets.
If you have a wide waist line you can consider adding a sash or a
splash of color
to your dress to help define your waist.
This style is a great
simple
or
elegant wedding gown
but keep in mind that if you want to go wild and crazy at your reception, it will be a little more restrictive due to the shape.
This Strapless Tulle Ball Gown has a intricate beaded design on the bodice and a great choice for a princess style dress.
This design is usually a little more elaborate with a frilly tulle skirt or a bodice with heavy bead work so make
sure you choose a simpler
veil or Princess tiara
to add balance to your overall look.(Read more about how to choose your wedding veil here.)
This silhouette is great for tall or pear shaped brides but shorter brides should
avoid it as it will cause you to appear even shorter.
Also
plus size brides
should opt for an A-line rather than a princess design as the rounded skirt will cause you to appear rounder.
The fabric you choose can be either a lightweight material giving it a slinky look and feel or a stiffer material
which will make it appear more dramatic.
The mermaid design, while very sexy and daring, is unfortunately very unforgiving
so only choose it if you are slender with great hourglass curves or if you are voluptuous and have the confidence to pull it off.
This Strapless Asymmetrical Gown is a modified mermaid silhouette which is not as clingy as the traditional style.
Important tips to remember when looking for an affordable bridal gown:
Try on as many different wedding dress styles as you can to find out what really flatters your best features the most.
If you're
trying to save a little money, then find exactly what looks fabulous on you in a boutique and then shop online for that same wedding dress.
(Follow these
tips
to ensure you have the best experience if you decide to buy your dress online.)
You'll save literally hundreds of dollars by doing
this and if you get it custom made with your specific measurements you'll be amazed at the exceptional quality and perfect fit.
Finally, if you have any questions or need any help with finding your perfect wedding dress, please don't hesitate to
contact me.
I'd love to help you get your dream wedding dress for less.
Next- Read all about Inexpensive Wedding Gowns and where to find them!
