Finding the dress - the one that makes you feel like the most beautiful version of yourself - is one of the most magical parts of wedding planning. But let's be real: staring at hundreds of gorgeous gowns can be overwhelming. The secret to simplifying the search? Knowing your beautiful body and what silhouettes will make you shine brightest! At Samila Bridal, we believe every bride deserves to feel confident and stunning, and this conversational guide is designed to help you narrow down your options based on common body shapes before you step into our boutique.
The Hourglass
If you have an hourglass figure with balanced proportions and a defined waist, your best bets are gowns that highlight those curves, such as a dramatic Mermaid or Trumpet style that hugs the body before flaring out. Alternatively, a sleek Sheath or Column dress will follow your natural shape without adding bulk, or you can opt for a Ballgown with a well-structured, fitted bodice to emphasize your waist before the skirt flows out; just be sure to avoid loose-fitting styles like an empire waist that can hide your gorgeous shape.
Martin Thornburg #MT8101 |
The Pear/Triangle
For brides who carry more volume in their lower body, the goal is to create a balanced look by either adding volume to the bottom or drawing the eye upward. The classic Ballgown is an ultimate choice, as its voluminous skirt gracefully conceals the hips while the fitted bodice brings attention to your waist and bust, and the universally flattering A-Line shape gently flows out from the waist, skimming the hips. You can also strategically draw the eye upward and widen the shoulders with Off-the-Shoulder or detailed necklines, but it's best to avoid form-fitting Mermaid or Trumpet styles that highlight the widest part of your hips.
Sophia Tolli #Y3107 |
The Apple/Circle
If your midsection is fuller and you want a gown that elongates your torso and defines the waist without clinging, look for styles with a raised or defined waistline. An Empire Waist, which begins right under the bust, is excellent for gliding over the midsection and elongating the body, while an A-Line gown with strategic draping or ruching across the bodice can camouflage and create a beautiful shape. V-Necklines are also great for drawing the eye vertically, helping to elongate your entire look, and you should try to avoid extremely fitted sheaths or dropped waistlines that draw unwanted attention to the middle.
Sophia Tolli #Y3202 |
The Rectangle/Athletic
For brides with a straight silhouette where the bust, waist, and hips are similar in width, the key is to choose a dress that creates the illusion of curves. Ballgowns and A-Line dresses instantly suggest an hourglass figure through the contrast of a fitted bodice and a voluminous skirt, and a Sheath dress can be transformed by a beautifully placed, embellished belt or sash at the natural waist to add definition. Additionally, gowns featuring horizontal detailing, texture, or ruching at the waist are perfect for adding the illusion of curve and dimension, while simple, unadorned column dresses should be avoided as they can emphasize a straight silhouette.
Morilee #2711 |
The Inverted Triangle
Brides with an inverted triangle shape, characterized by wider shoulders and a narrower lower half, should focus on balancing the silhouette by adding volume to the hips and minimizing the shoulders. A-Line or Ballgown styles are ideal because their fuller skirts perfectly balance the upper body by adding volume to the lower half, and choosing V-necks, halters, or subtle cap sleeves will help, while strapless gowns or super-wide necklines that broaden the shoulders should be avoided. Also, details like ruffles, pleats, pockets, or other embellishments on the skirt are excellent for drawing attention downward, helping to create a balanced overall look.
Sophia Tolli Première #ST2214 |
Remember, these guidelines are just the starting point; the perfect dress is ultimately the one you feel incredible in, no matter the silhouette. Our expert consultants at Samila Bridal are skilled at celebrating all body shapes and helping you explore styles you might not have even considered, ensuring you find the gown that makes you feel uniquely beautiful on your wedding day. Book your appointment with us today and let's find the gown that celebrates your unique beauty!