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Wedding dress shopping: the best and worst part of planning for your big day.
The worst because it takes up an epic amount of time, often leaves you in tears or the dress is not what you’re looking for.
The best, because when you find that one perfect dress, well, all those tears end up being worth it.
But just what do you do when you don’t have all the time in the world but still want to find that dress with the perfect fit?
Here’s a brief guideline:
The ball gown:
This classic dress is recognisable by its full, bell-shaped skirt that flares from the bodice. It’s a gown that’s popular for many reasons, but mostly because it’s timeless, suitable for most body frames and epitomises that fairy-tale fantasy come to life feeling.
If you’re on the petite side, you may want to consider a different dress, though. Many experts claim that it’s not a good look on your frame as the volume of the skirt tends to have that “drowning-in-your-dress ”effect.
Mermaid-style dresses
This gorgeous dress is characterised by its form-fitting shape that flares out just below the knees. It's ideally suited for women with tall, slender or hour glass body types.
If you’re all about showing off those curves, you should definitely opt to give this dress a try.
Trumpet dresses
A second-cousin to the mermaid style gown, this dress is slightly less moulding than the mermaid style dress and flares out mid-thigh.
According to The Knot, this dress is perfect for brides-to-be who prefer gowns they can easily move in. If you’re fuller figured, pear-or-apple-shaped and don’t feel comfortable showing your body off for whatever reason, Bridal guide suggests avoiding this dress as it places emphasis on the stomach area.
The A-line dress
Exactly what the dress says it is, the A-line is a gown that’s suitable for almost every body type out there. Below the small and fitted bodice, the line of the dress flows outwards (hence the name). This style is both flattering and timeless.
This kind of frock is particularly great if you’re looking for a gown that hides unflattering bits – particularly around the stomach area.
Sheath wedding dresses
Suited for tall and slender frames, Sheath dresses are long, flowy and drape your body like a curtain. According to the Timeless bridal wear, petite woman should definitely opt for this as it creates the illusion that you’re taller than you really are.
If you’re worried that this style may be too plain, consider adding beading embellishments or a sash to offshoot the plain structure of the dress.
Tea-length wedding dresses
Fan of the retro era? Then this type of wedding dress will be right up your alley. Best of all, with its below-the-knee hem and skirt with its wide flare, this gown is suited to most body types.
We love this gown most of all because of its versatility – you don’t just have to wear this on your big day, pop on this little number when you’re off to a cocktail event and you’ll be set for the night.
Article: Tammy February
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