Article Advise

submitted: Sep 7th 2008 | by: AnneMichaels | Total views: 2 | Word Count: 518 | |

It can be difficult to find a flattering bridal gown, even if you're tall and thin. If you're less stylishly shaped, like a pear shape, hourglass, or apple, or if you're petite, finding the right dress can be a real trial.

However, there's still hope if you're having a lot of trouble finding things that fit. Specialty boutiques and non bridal stores can be a great place to shop, but go in with a knowledge of what styles look good on you and which ones don't. Here are the major shape categories most of us fall into, and the styles that flatter each one.

Classic hourglass - When your bust and hip measurements are similar and your waistline is strongly defined, you're an hourglass. Statistically, you're also probably over a size fourteen, making shopping for bridal dresses tricky. The good news is that many styles work well for this shape, including well supported strapless gowns.

Pear shape - If you have larger hips and a smaller bust, you're shaped like a pear or spoon. Balancing the top half of the body with the bottom half by adding interest is the best strategy when choosing a bridal gown. Many of the rules for hourglass shapes apply here, but look for detailing in the bodice to draw the eye up.

Apple shape - If your hips and bust are similar in size, but your waist is about the same size or larger, you're apple shaped. Choose a-line gowns or empire waists, both with full, long skirts. This helps de-emphasize hips and waist. However, don't wear these gowns with a short skirt, or you're in danger of looking pregnant.

Petite - Women who are less than 165 cm / 5'4" tall are petite, which has its own set of challenges when it comes to buying a bridal gown. It's important to find a dress that's not too plain, but doesn't overwhelm you with ruffles and other detailing. Wear an elaborate headdress to make a plain dress fancier and more interesting.

Plus size - Plus sized women have a lot of trouble finding bridal gowns that aren't just sized up from other patterns for smaller women. These dresses almost always have fitting issues. Skip them, and look for a bridal gown boutique that specializes in your size - you'll find them online and in larger cities.

The most important think to keep in mind when choosing your bridal gown is that you should know what looks good on you. However, you should also keep track of the brands and how they fit when you try on dresses. There may be similarities throughout a line.

Another option is having your gown custom made or partially customized. This is much less expensive than you'd think, and can be a good way to get a flattering bridal gown if you're difficult to fit. However, you should be sure to contact your seamstress or tailor well in advance of the wedding - as much as a year - to make sure you get the right dress.

About the Author

Bridal Gowns are perhaps the most important part of any bride's plan for the "perfect wedding", and now you can read our bride reviews and rankings of gown makers at the True Bride Australian Wedding Directory (www.TrueBride.com.au).

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