Here’s a handy little guide to five of the most common wedding dress silhouettes – A-Line, Sheath, Mermaid, Ball Gown and Empire – and what body types they look best on!
Choosing a Wedding Dress to Flatter Your Figure
The A-Line is fitted at the bodice and flares wider toward the bottom, similar to the shape of an A. This classic silhouette flatters all body types just like the ball gown, providing a balanced look that brings focus to the narrowest part of your waistline.
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The waistline on an Empire dress is above the natural waistline, often as high as right below the bust. This silhouette is perfect for small-busted, petite, or pear-shaped figures.
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The Ball Gown is a long, formal dress that is fitted at the bodice – trimming the waist – and a dramatic full skirt. It is perfect for brides of all body types (though it can overwhelm petite brides with small frames).
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The figure-hugging Sheath dress has a straight skirt and a defined waist. The cut of the sheath silhouette is perfect for tall and slender brides and petite and curvy figures, it follows your natural shape and drapes softly – this creates a lengthening effect on the bride who wears it. Looking for a less formal feel? Sheath gowns are the ones for you!
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A Mermaid is a close-fitting dress from the chest to the mid-thigh or knee, where it flares out to the hem. Emphasizing an hourglass shape, mermaid gowns are ideal for brides looking to enhance their curvy or hourglass figures.
