Every Wedding Dress Fit and Style Explained

As a bride-to-be, saying yes to the proposal is not the only thing you will be saying ‘yes’ to. Planning a wedding is a big deal, and there are lot of things that decisions will need to be made for everything to come together, like saying yes to the dress.

The wedding gown is one of the most important parts of a wedding, in the bride’s mind. On the wedding day, all eyes will be on you: walking down the isle, seeing your spouse for the first time in wedding attire, having the first dance, or mingling with guests at the reception. Having the perfect dress is more than worthy for this occasion. There are so many style options that dress shopping can be overwhelming.

Here is a guide to all the possible wedding dress styles available for purchase. Don’t be afraid to try on multiple options and different silhouettes you may not typically consider. Keep an open mind with what your bridal consultant or family picks out for you, but also do your research on what you are looking for, styles and designer in all. You want your dress to draw attention to your most flattering features. It’s about being confident and happy in your dress

 Some things to keep in mind:

• A fitted sheath, mermaid, or trumpet gowns will accentuate your curves or create an illusion of them
• Pleats or gathers around the waist can magnify it. A well-fitted high-waist and loose skirt will combat this
• When in doubt, consider an a-line gown

Here are the 8 different styles of wedding dresses to look for when shopping:

A-line

A universally flattering favorite. The A-line style complements and works on all body type types, as the bodice (or top) of the dress is fitted, and from the waist down is where the skirt flares out into a soft A-shape, giving it the name A-line. This style hugs curves in all the right places and is great for brides with pear-shaped silhouettes or curvy brides.

Mermaid

The mermaid style hugs the body from the chest to the knee and is flared down from there. This style emphasizes the waist and hips. Make sure you wear the correct undergarments and shapewear if you are going with a mermaid style, so you can move freely in it and easily sit down.

Trumpet

Yes, Mermaid and Trumpet are totally different. Trumpet is a more toned-down version of the mermaid. The bodice flows straight down to the hips and flares starting mid thigh, instead of the knees like the mermaid. This is a good choice for an extravagant celebration for brides with slender frames or hourglass body types who want to flaunt their curves.

Ball Gown

The fairy tale princess style. This dress has volume, drama, and is totally classic. This style is best for brides with slimmer hips and a fuller bust. The fuller skirt accentuates the waist and hides the lower body, so the skirt can make you look larger if you do not want to accentuate your hips. Some shorter brides have a fear that ball gowns will make them look swallowed in the dress, so don’t be afraid to try it on just to try it out.

Slip

The phrase ‘less is more’ sums up this style perfectly. The slip dress is sophisticated, simple, and very chic. These dresses hug a brides curves in the hips and is designed to fit the bride like a glove. You will see features like a cowl neck or back detailing frequently on these dresses to give it more character.

Sheath

If you want form fitting at every point, this dress is for you. From the bodice, hips, and the hem is all fitted. These dresses feature slits to allow for more movement since the silhouette is so tight fitting. This style emphasizes your curves and looks beautiful on curvy or hourglass body types or for those with slim waistlines, wide hips, and large bust areas. Many different variations of sheath dresses are available with v-neck or halter necklines, long sleeves, half sleeve, short sleeve, or a cap sleeve.

Column

Very similar to the sheath silhouette, but the column is more flowing and seamless. If you want more structure, then this style is for you. It is more structured since it is designed with fabrics like taffeta, brocade, or corded lace, which is heavier with less elasticity and will not stretch. It is tailor made to flaunt a sleek figure, so if you have a hourglass or athletic frame, pick this one!

Tea-length

If you are searching for a style that incorporates the “something old, something new” quality, then this vintage-esque style is for you. This tea-length, ankle grazing style is the perfect middle ground between fashion forward and traditional sensibilities. It is definitely unconventional and will ‘wow’ your guests, as it says a lot about the bride’s personality, she’s not afraid to be bold and take risks even for her wedding day.