How to Choose the Right Wedding Dress Style for Your Body Type
Everyone thinks they know how to choose a wedding gown. What most women don’t realize is fabrics, style and measurements can influence the style of wedding dress that best complements a particular body type.
This article will help you choose the right wedding dress style for your own body shape.
If you’re a full-figured woman, the best silhouette is the A-line style. A-line style lengthens the whole body without drawing attention to your waistline. The empire waist is another good choice. The empire is narrowest just below the bust, which conceals your waist and hips.
Many plus-sized girls tend to purchase wedding gowns that cover a lot of skin. If religion isn’t an issue, don’t be afraid to show some skin. Skin is sexy, and showing your arms and neckline can often make you appear slimmer.
Deep V-necks and scoop necks flatter curvy figures, and always look best on full-figured women.
A-line wedding dresses are also flattering on petite women. As we stated earlier, this style lengthens the body. Sheaths seem to shorten a small body even more, so petite women should avoid sheath-style wedding dresses. Also steer clear of very full skirts, which will make you look ‘bottom heavy’. You want to keep your wedding dress proportionate to your body.
Be careful with strapless gowns — a petite woman may have to lift her arms to reach up to her new husband (can you say ‘wardrobe malfunction’?). A cap sleeve gives the feeling of a strapless gown, and also serves the practical purpose of holding the gown in place.
Off-the-shoulder gowns look wonderful on a full bust. It draws our attention upward, emphasizes the shoulders and minimizes the chest. Keep your skirt narrow. Wearing a full skirt will make you look large both on top and bottom.
Women who are larger through their hips and buttocks should look for a wedding dress that focuses on their upper body — preferably with a full skirt.
Show off your arms, back and bustline.
A corset-style bodice with lacing will highlight your upper body. We want to draw attention away from your hips. Avoid pleats or gathered fabric around the waist. An A-line skirted wedding dress always works the best for this body type.
I am 5′4 and my weight fluctuates between 120 and 125 pounds. I do not have wide shoulders and wear a size 32C bra. My waist is 26 inches and hips 34. Most of my other dresses are halters because I have trouble finding necklines that don’t make the area between my collar bones and breasts look concave and bony. I also do not like something super frilly. Will someone please help me?
whitney,
you sound like you have an hourglass shape which you are very lucky. mermaid styles are a great choice. avoid a 2 piece look cause you could end up looking choppy. scoop and square necklines should compliment. an aline works well for all body types.
*great tips
Hi,
I’m getting married in 2011 (looooong time from now) and are working hard to shed the last couple of kg before then. I am now 1.78m and 84 kg (my target is 72 kg). I have large upper arms and a big bust as well as broad shoulders and hips and VERY freakishly long skinny legs. I really have a huge problem finding a dress that looks good on me (with my arms and all). please let me know if you can help me?
Adri,
Hi thank you for the pics!!! you are a inverted triangle body shape.
*many great tips
*tips
*inverted triangle
*inverted triangle wedding dress pics, great ideas
Thanks Stacey! I really understand alot more about my figure now - now everything makes sense! Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hello,
I’m getting married summer or 2010 and am having a hard time finding a dress that I feel comfortable in, I’m 5′8″ 156 lbs. have an hourglass figure n bit of a tummy and just feel too heavy set in everything. I want something soft yet sexy something to take his breathe away but don’t know where to start…any suggestions? Oh, yeah my wedding is going to be outdoors, the ceremony will be on an oil rig so I really need some good help.
Thanks,
Renee
Ruching around the mid section that kind of bunchs at the side is always a nice way to hid the tummy. I have added some photos of the style I am talking about.
Hello, I’m 5′8 and pear-shaped. I have a fairly small waist in comparison to my bum/legs. I know something with a full skirt is recommended but it’s just not my style. I prefer something with no poof and I absolutely love lace. The dress I have tried and like is a one-shoulder, chiffon on the top and the bottom is lace that just drops. It’s fitted on the bodice and bum and I’m just wondering is this a big no-no???? My mom, sisters and friends say it’s flattering and gives me a Jlo bum in it but I don’t know if they are just trying to be nice and avoid any hurt feelings!! Any advice?
hi Iam 5.4 and on the bigger side of 16 Iam on a diet and lost 6 pound in 2 weeks woop woop! Iam hopeing to be a small size 14 in time for the wedding in march,please let me know what shape dress would look the best on a small fuller girl thanks stacey x
hi:
, weight 65 kg.., that is ok, i can deal with that, the problem are my arms, they are fat, hard to hide, and to top it all i have short round shoulders, spaghetti straps normally slice down. i am pretty ok with my body but i can never find clothes that suit me 
what kind of dress should i look for???? 
another challenge. i am barely 5″ tall, bra size 36 D, a bit chubby in the waist when sitting but when standing there is a soft waist there
dorys,
i think a aline gown of littel embellishment would work. a scoop, sweetheart, or v neck. if choosing a ball gown make sure it has a full yet slimmer skirt. instead of a very full skirt.
*tips
* more tips,
if you have broader shoulders and narrow hips you are an inverted trianglae body shape. if not, and you have a defined waist and shoulders and hips are close width you are an hourglass. there are some gorgeous sleeved dresses that would help with arms. avoid cap sleeves. also look into shrugs. avoid long sleeve and 3/4 sleeve they will make arms look out of proportionwith petite figures. you could try a short lacy sleeve.
*some great tips and gorgeous dresses here
Okay I am 5′8″, mostly legs, 34D, and about 140lbs, with a little bit of tummy and thunder thighs. I am really scared that I might get a dress that is just going show off my flaws. Help please!!
If you are 5′8″ and 140 pounds, you do not have “thunder thighs”. You are the perfect weight for your height. I know this because I used to be 150 lbs. and 5′8″ and looked awesome. But, I quit smoking and gained 25 lbs! I am wedding dress shopping now and wish I had my old body back! But, I guess it beats lung cancer. Wait, enough about me. Don’t worry! You’ll look great.
brittany,
our height, weight, and measurements are pretty much the same. Aline. you can pretty much take the run of the mill with alines and see which flatters as far as skirt goes. slimmer or fuller. our height can usually carry off either. i prefer the slimmer skirt that flows into a sweep train. ( nothing clingy or bias cut.) i cant wear empire cause it adds inches on my chest( ugh!) and my height. i find the scoop and v neck flatter best overall. i hope some of these details help. good luck!!
i’m 6ft tall and full figured. broad in the shoulders and slimmer in the hips. i tend to describe myself as KFC bucket (breast, legs and thighs). i hope to loose some weight before the wedding but I know that no matter how much weight is lost my frame will pretty much stay the same. im very self concious about my shoulders so im looking for something flattering to my figure. please help any and all suggestions are welcomed.
capped sleeves will make you feel more comfortable. They can usually add them to any dress!
latoya,
you sound like your a inverted triangle body shape. fuller on top narrow on bottom.
*dress tips
*several links
*very good website with dress examples ( beautiful dress the model is wearing) ( fave site)
i love the wrap dress for the reason that empire can tend to make you look taller ( but it is still one of the better chpices for this body type) the wrap wont add height. it is lovely and would look stunning!! the cut of the dress is perfect for all wedding formalities with just a change of length of veil and accessories. i would try this particular style dress to see how it works. have a wonderful time shopping! dresses catered to body shapes will take the stress out of finding that perfect dress. enjoy this wonderful time!!
Hi,
Well, I am having alot of problems trying to find a dress that flatters my body i am 5ft, a 36 DD, 32 waist, and 38 hips. I would really appreciate any advice. Oh, yeah i am having a christmas wedding if you can give me any advice about that. Thanks!
shawny, i would begin my search in a simple aline dress. free of any beading etc.
*wedding dress tips
*great wedding dress tips
HELP!!! I am in desperate need of advice for my body type. I already have a dress, but my wedding is postponed bc I am pregnant with my third(we are already married just never did the ceremony). I am second guessing the gown bc it’s not flattering, and I have already changed it twice!!! I am 5 ft. 3 and my wieght flexuates between 118-130. This pic included was taken about 3 weeks ago, I was 3 months prego, I am due in Feb, and the wedding is set for Oct. 2010. I will need to sell the gown I have which is a Maggie Sottero-Jovi. my measurements are usually 36 27 37 or 38 …….. sorry for the racy photos…most recent (had a photoshoot done for hubby for anniv.) also…. here is the link to my current dress…just makes me look stumpy… maybe the waistline is to long??? Feedback?
http://www.maggiesottero.com/dress.aspx?keywordText=jovi&keywordType=any&page=0&pageSize=12&style=A3198
ashley,
you are an hourglass body shape. which means your bust an hips are almost the same ( within an inch or two) your waist is smaller than these by at least 4 inches.i am guessing that it has too much embellisment on it for you. sometimes a wrap on a petite frame will be a bit much. it really depends on the style of the dress. avoid straight styles( which can make you look boxy) heavily beaded gowns, too much ruching, cap sleeves may not flatter. a fitted a strapless or halter fitted aline would look superb!! i am an hourglass and i find that simple flowing dress style work best. for fun, i tried on a scoop neck, very slightly embellished gown that fitted slightly then flowed into a fishtail train, it had one inch spaghetti straps. it was the best fit for me but i am 5′8″. if you stick with something simple and have it flow with or without straps, halter, etc. you will find how beautifully it will accent your body type. stick with nonshiny material, sometimes it can make an hourglass look out of proportion by adding weight to the chest area. here is a fantastic guide….
*wedding dress styles and body types
an hourglass can wear many styles yet be hard to find something that works at the same time. i have found that some styles not recommended worked out perfectly due to the fabric and the cut. example: my body style is suppose to steer clear of empire waist dresses but inthe right cut and fabric it actually mde me look smaller in the bust instead of larger ( like it said). i would go to a bridal store with my known body type and ask the assistant what she has for a petite hourglass frame. i really think simple is the way to go and add embellishment in your hair accessory( whether a comb or a rhinestone veil, even a beautiful white rose in a pulled up twist) a blusher over the face is for a first time bride. then add rhinestone picks to a bouquet of creamy white roses for more accents maybe even beaded heels or jewelry.
if i had to pick what i could see you wearing from what i stated previously, it would be the billowy strapless aline, with the white roses with clear rhinestone picks, tied with a luxurious white satin ribbon and bow. have a matching white rose in a elegant twist hairstyle, wearing pale blue heels( for your something blue).
I recieved a wedding dress that a friend of mine bought and decided not to wear. It is a heavy dress, a lot of bead work and lace, you need a petticoat to get the “effect”. After years have past and I am more serious to planning my wedding, I have begun rethinking if that is a good dress. I am very small, 5′2, I weigh from 92.5-105lbs at this time. My bra sz is 34A-32B. I am very small boned. I have more saddlebags (thighs than rear rump) My waist is smaller than hips and bust, but it looks better (to me if I suck it in). Which is very easy. I want to be in something comfortable that I look stunning in and that I don’t have to “try” to look stunning in. One site says empire, another a frame, then if u have good colar bones show em off, if you have nice shoulders don’t hide em. Don’t do a strapless. So I really am not sure what to do, but have a little fear about the dress I have being one of those ones that wear the bride vs the bride wearing it. Please help-
Monica
monica,
the dress is not suitable for your tiny frame, it will overwhelm you. i think a empire waisted a line would be perfect for you. it will enhance the breasts, it will add height. empire waist looks beautiful on slender frames and it will skim over thighs. but try one on cause some empires look great on and some dont. empire and aline is the ticket. strapless is good for your collar bones. this is where a lil’ dress magic comes in with the enhancers or cup inserts( such as liquid filled “chicken fillets” which add a cup size or two. you have a pear shape and will look more balanced.some say stay away from this if pear shaped but i have seen it look beautiful and some recommend a very simple unadorned ballgown with a slimmer skirt instead of a full skirt( be careful here it needs to be more on the slightly fuller aline instead of straight ballgown, or it will overwhelm you stick with more modified a line or princess aline and not a dropped skirt) an off the shoulder style would be very nice. its touch and go so i would try on some styles but i have narrowed it down to: a line, modified ballgown, or empire. i would have the upper bodice with a lil’ adornment only and straps. this will suit very well.
*dress tips
*tips
hi ;
my tall is 168 cm,wide bone,very small breats,not thin waist, no hips ,my weight is good but my body somehow is straight,help me please to choose my wedding dress
nona,
here is a website. i am loving the empire waist dress. that would suit you perfectly!! it will give the illusion of a bigger bust while flowing gently over the body, narrowing the waist, and skims over the hips. dont be afraid to try on other dresses too. any embellishment will help a small bust while wrap dresses that flow into an aline skirt or a ballgown skirt ( if you wish) will provide balance. good luck!!
*dress guide
Hello, I’m 5′3″ and I’m 42 DDD ,I have no butt or hips but have a bit of a stomach…I was looking at an empire or sweetheart style wedding dress online but don’t know if I should be getting a dress with no straps. HELP!
Oh I’m also getting married in two months. EEKK
bobbie jo,
here is a great site i have provided to another bride previously.
*wedding dress tips
i have a slightly larger bust and i know strapless is very difficult for me to wear being a 34 D. it provides no support. i would seriously consider a strap. or find a dress with a convertible strap. your getting married in twomonths and i would highly recommend you being able to try on the dress and online makes that difficult. there are some great dresses online, however, the dress may come in and then you may have to get it altered or it may not fit the way you need it too. i highly recommend a store so they can help you with the fittings. i wish you the best!!
I am having a really difficult time finding a dress that is flattering on me. I am 5′1″. I weight 154. For years I weight 132 and I just recetly gained the weight. My measurements are 34″ 30″ 44″. I have large hips and rear. I usually look like I have an hour glass figure but my waist and hips have recently increased. I actually already have a dress but the new weight totally kills the look on the mermaid style. Does anyone have any idea what dress would look good on me. Every dress that I like makes me look super short and fat…
you are probably trying on dress that have too low of a waist line. i have a similar body type and i would say that you should consider a waist line closer to the bust. this will make the lower half of your body seem more fit to the dress. Also if you find a dress that does not hit the floor and that is closer to your ankles, it will make you look taller with heels. please consider my advice and i hope you find a beautiful dress
Hi I am 4ft 11” and I am a DD cup I was wondering if you think this dress would look okay it is a 2 hour drive to try it on so I want some extra opinions first.
nikki, youare going in a good direction a v neck. i am concerned it wont be enough coverage or support for an ample bust. the plunging neckline and neckline fabric may not suit well. i would look for something with a little more coverage, but look for something in the similar style, if you love it and it suits your frame. it might be worth the drive, try it on if you cant resist, younever know what you might find on your trip!! bring an honest friend that will help you and just have fun!!!
*Want a Wedding Dress
that Flatters a Big Bust
Hi,
I am 5”3 and a half, rather large breasts, 36dd, and have hardly any hips and bottom. I wear a size 8 in street clothes, I have a little tummy so I would like to hide it:) I found a gorgeous oleg cassini 2 piece a line with sweetheart neckline, it has intricate embroidery along the bottom of the dress and train as well as the middle and top part of the bodice, it is style cv008… do you think this would work for me??!?! Thanks for any replies or suggestions!!
lisa,
if you can i would try it on. two piece can sometimes be tricky. they stop at the waist and the eye will not flow like in an aline. i do love the dress it is GORGEOUS! i do love that more modified and simple; the skirt is more body skim then it goes away from the hips which will give you a great balance with a larger chest. you will want to avoid anything clingy or a sheath; it will not add curves on your lower half. tip: some ballgowns skirts + larger chest may add the illusion of more pounds. so choose carefully. i am a 34 D. i do know strapless does not work for me because it has no support. if you want this dress and it looks amazing on. consider adding straps ( not halter) for more support. if you want to minimize your chest. a v neck, scoop, and of course, the sweetheart neckline are key.
*wedding gown style: a dress that flatters a big bust
Thanks Stacey!! I will try it on and see, fingers crossed!!
Hello, I am 5′8″ approx, and very VERY small breasted (36 AA) but have a nice size bottom. I love the style of this dress, but I would never be able to fit in the top…. Any suggestions? Also, I will be wearing a vest or something for the ceremony do to religious reasons, of not showing my shoulders….
maeve, you could ask the dress shop for ways to emphasize a smaller breast. they have these wonderful add a cup inserts you could purchase. also undergarments may add ( if that is what you are wanting) to emphasize. beautiful dress!!
So I am short; about 5′2″, not very curvy, but a little bit, but am rather large busted for my size (32C-hard to find…) I have no butt, wider shoulders then hips…. wanting something modest. Anybody have any suggestions?
heather, i would try empire wedding dresses something that hugs just a bit. it will all be in the skirt, find with just a tad of fullness, to full will overwhelm you to balance the figure. you should be able to find these styles easily! ample busts also favor the modest v neck or scoop. i have many links i have given brides previously and i have marked some with “best website”.
i am 4ft 11 inches and weigh 13 stone i am a size uk 20 about a 22 - 26 in a wedding dress, basically i look like a beer barrel, i am getting married in july and i just cant find a dress to suit me does anyone have any ideas xxxxxxxx
tracy,
google search wedding dress to fit your body shape
hi im a size 16 a d cup and only just over 5 ft tall what should i wear on my wedding day
I need some advice..I’m 5′1 and weight 175 and have very much of an hour glass figure.. I want to try A-line dresses with cap sleeves to cover up a tattoo on my right side solder. I know..I regret getting the tatto so much!!
can you tell me if this combo would be a good fit for me?
Hello…I just want to let you know that I too have an hourglass figure and I find that ribbed corset dresses with a somewhat A-Line style…a little more fitted not really wide at the bottom looks best. Also for that tattoo…if you get a really good make-up artist that knows airbrushing you can conceal it with airbrush and you’d never know it! My friend did it and you can’t even tell where they cover it up! Look around for one, trust me you’ll be happy to spend the money on it!
Please help
I am 5′9 with a longer torso size 14-15
I have a large stomach flabby arms lol
and large breasts please give me some advice
Help! I think I might have found a super cheap dress in the right size- but it’s via internet- and I’m not sure if it would look good on my body type…
I am short- 5′1… and i have large boobs- 40D. I am a size 18w to 20 in bridal dresses…
(See picture) I worry b/c the detailing at the top- however it does have thicker straps (beautiful- not detailed in pic)… also it is a dress that comes to the middle (underneath breast) and flows out into two seperate pieces of sheath… *hopefully pic works*
What do you think- purchase or not - the clock is ticking… thanks so much!!!
I’d say this dress will add volume and would do very little for your body shape. I’m quite short as well, and this style of dress has shortened me in more and made me look dumpy. I’d say go and try a few on, see what works best and then look online. The fact that it is cheap should not be the reason for buying it. I made that mistake and I’m now sending a dress back. Luckily I had it on approval so am not wasting any money. I got it because it was cheap, but it just didn’t work.
I’d say from what you describe about yourself that you could do a lot better. You need to feel perfect on your wedding day. You can compromise on price for definite but on the style I’d hold out until you get something perfect.
hi im 5′7and a half and am a thin 115 lbs with a very small bust at barely 34A what would be the best dress type for me
kayla, a empire waist will be gorgeous though it can make you look taller. my sister is small and she looked great in sheaths with lots of beading, but her wedding dress was a ballgown type, with beading onthe bodice and it balanced her out. so i would suggest a empire waist or a simple ballgown, it doesnt have to be a super full skirt. she looked gorgeous!!
Hi,
I am really short, only 5 feet, I have big thighs and hips but otherwise am pretty small. I have a tiny chest 32A. my measurements if I remember correctly are chest:32.5 waist: 27 hips: 36. I am getting married in April, what kind of dress would you suggest?
barbara,
it sounds like you would be perfect for the empire waisted gown, it will add to your bustime and minimize bigger hips etc. therefore, balancing your shape. plus it can be extremely comfy!! look at some great links i gave other brides below for info, including these 2. but definitely go with the empire waist!! i love this dress cut, its actually my fave!!
* Dress Styles: Introduction
* Full Skirt or Ballerina dress
ok here is a challenge for you all
Im 5′2
I am very Heavy in the stomach area almost like being pregnant, you know the commercial that runs on tv about cortisol?? ya the one with the double blind study.. (teehhee) the blue printed body shape is my shape, I have saggy breasts thanks to my oldest son..(went from a nice perky C to a DD in 48 hours when my milk came in) and have a JLO shelf booty (or like a swayback mare) with broad shoulders,
my measurements are
chest 38
waist 34 fluxuates sometimes its a 32 1/2 depending on my food intake during the week.
hips 42, but its all behind me I have NOOO hip curves at all
so what would be the ideal dress for me??
I would even consider wearing BLACK or a dark color to hide my disfigured shape
hi luana, i am afraid i havent been much help. from what i have read a v neck, wrap style simple ballgown dress with a simple and slimmer skirt might work. i would go to a bridal salon and try on alot of dresses, take a trusted friend who will help you narrow it down. my daughter is 5′1″, busty, with some stomach and a jlo backside, she looks so beautiful in empire waist styles including the baby doll styles. it does enhance her chest some but not in an overpowering way. i only wish i could wear those styles i love them!! but i am 5′8″ tall and kinda small build, smaller d cup,( never been able to wear spaghetti straps or strapless
) and i look absolutely ridiculous!! 
i would definitely try this dress on i bet you would look great!! i believe there are empire waist that are cut different,lower. ask a bridal clerk, i have seen this style just not sure how to word it. also check out link below for more advice (the one to kim) i wish you the best of luck!! and please write back when you find your dress!!
* How to choose wedding dress styles to flatter your best bits and hide your lumps & bumps!
* wedding gown styles …
i think a cap sleeve and a high waist would be very flattereing on your body type. i have have a similar shape but with SMALL breasts. I find A pushup bra with lots of padding to be helpful. You shouldnt have that problem though. good luck.
Sorry Stacey the wedding was delayed until next april but I think I found the perfect dress…well on the model..I live out in the boonies so finding a wedding shop is gonna take a road trip. But I have attatched a couple of pictures of the dress I found…let me know what you think..oh yea and by the way since I have been married before we decided not to have a traditional wedding dress. Im going RED
luana,
wow that is a gorgeous dress. the only set back on a shorter height is the ruching, all those gathers doesnt flatter a shorter height. my daughter is about the same height and her first dress she tried on was very similar to this, it did not enhance her figure, it overwhelmed her. it was the wrong style for her body type. she wound up picking something empire(though hers was a burgundy red flowing pantsuit). she did try on other empire and found the slimmer empire dresses worked best. i would stick with a simple and unadorned(or little embellishment). you can still have red though. i would ask the shop to help me pick out something that wouldnt overwhelm my frame. love that your wearing red!!
Stacey makes a wonderful point, and I thought of you when I stumbled across this red Maggie Sottero at BravoBride — it was worn by a petite bride (size 8) and as you can see, it looks lovely on her! Show-stopping but as you can see, she is wearing the dress instead of the dress wearing her. Red Maggie Sotteros are not always so easy to find in US bridal shops, but it’s worth a look!
Here’s the listing:
* Red Amara Royale at Bravo Bride
my soon to be mother in law found this one on ebay,now that we have decided on a “theme” for the wedding my fiance is going to wear a zoot suit complete with a fedora, so now the challenge is to find a dress that will fit within the theme, I plan on corseting the heck outta my belly, even though Im on the path of weight loss and toning! here is a shot of another dress Im looking at.
I found it! my perfect dress, although its not red, the shop owner said she can call da vinci and see if they could in fact do it in a red! with the way the economy is now she said its worth a shot…but here is ME in the white version of the dress I fell in love with, If I do choose to keep it white, I will definitely have the sash changed to a red one! it will of coarse need to be hemmed…and a few pearls taken off from around the armpit area..scratchy ouchie! the dress number is a 8260
Hi Luana! I love that dress! So wonderful to see it on a real person! Congrats on the weight loss! I have a question - I am trying to locate this dress so that I could try it on, but in case I can’t, hopefully you can help me.
My measurements are close to the one you wrote about in a previous post. 38.5 bust (36C) - 35 waist (but 32 if I hold my stomach in) and 41.5 hips. The problem though is that i have a tummy. The measurement 3 inches below my waist, or 2 inches below my belly button is 42. So thats a bust of 38.5, waist of 35, below waist of 42, and hips of 41.5. Basically a lower pot belly.
You look amazing in the dress! I was wondering if it is in fact an a-line shape, and also what undergarments did you wear? And also, how clingy in the tummy area is the dress? Do you think that I could wear it with the right undergarments? I already own a long-line foam bra and crinoline skirt, but have no dress. Any advice would be appreciated! Thanks! ( not sure if it will work, but you can reply here or at terri_july9 at ya hoo dot com. Thanks!
Can anyone help me? i’m extremly small 5′4″ and only 90lbs. no real curves just small everywhere. what style of dress would look best for me?
kim, from what i have read a simple empire waisted gown with little or no beading(so you wont get lost in it) with a smaller scale skirt not big ballgown but a little volume to it.) and a cinched waist detail to give the look of curves or a sash. consider adding a small brooch to sash knot would look beautiful.
* ABC Of Weddings: N Is For Necklines
* Full Skirt or Ballerina dress
* Wedding dresses: the one for you ( best info!!)
* Best Wedding Dress for Your Body Type ( this too!!)
am 5′2 & weight is 49.hips is 26 and have 35 busty.please tell me what type of wedding dress would be perfect for me……..please please please do reply…………
veena, here are some guides.
* The Shape of Gowns to Come
* Real Simple: Wedding Dresses: How to Choose the Perfect Dress for Your Body Type
this will answer all your questions. you will need something simple. here is the neckline guide!! good luck!!
And …
* Your Gown: Neckline Glossary
I’m 5′6 small boned weigh a 107 etc…when looking for a dress, the clerks would recommend the tightest most revealing types of dresses! How embarassing I’m getting married in a church before God my family & friends. Anyhow, I finally found a classy elegant dress that I loved I purchased yet the problem is the dress was sleeveless dress. Because we are having a Winter wedding I decided to have invisible sleeves added However once the dress arrived it looked crazy they had put beads all over the sleeves ( I gave them a picture of what I wanted which was just crystal beads on the wrists ) so now I have sleeves that are too big and sag, plus the beads work is like a crazy 80’s disco scene! I also had them eliminate the poofy skirt. Okay the designer got carried away with the sleeves ..I just wanted to some crystal beads on the edge of the sleeve The clerks think it looks great with the bead working matching the bodice design, Anyhow. I think it is toooooo much . My sisters told me just to have them pulled off and have a 3/4 sleeves put
or a puff sleeves , or just wear a jacket ? The jacket also appears to me to be something you might be adjusting all evening. I wanted some TIMELESS, elegant and simple. What should I do ???
sophie, hi, i would make them redo it if you have time it is their responsibilty to make it the way the customer wants it. if that is not possible, then i do suggest taking off the sleeves, and adding a wonderful bolero jacket. you shouldnt be adjusting this all nite if its the right fit and just for safe measure have a matching rhinestone clasp on front to assure it will stay in its place. there are many brides that choose strapless with or without bolero during ceremony and take it off during reception or just have a wedding coat for outdoors. during the winter but for church purposes i completely understand. i do love the 3/4 sleeves option also. oh yes there is another option. if its within your budget they have great bridal overdress coats to put over the strapless for indoors, lightweight and blends in with dress to look like 1 piece. the beautiful bodce will peak thru. for pics just google image winter wedding dress. this would be after i talked to the designers and explained about the dress. good luck!!
sophie, got your post you are so welcome!!! have a wonderful wedding day!!!
I am 4′11 and I have a large bust and broad shoulders and have an hourglass figure. I tried to follow what they say the styles are for body types but it seems that they cancel each other out. Do this for an hour glass but don’t do it if you are short.Grrrr.lol What the heck type of dress is for me!!!!
For your height, I’d definitely say go with an A-line gown. You can always get it altered to fit your height. DO NOT go for a ballgown, you’ll end up looking like a big poof ball. I’d suggest trying on a gown that is strapless and one that has maybe a halter. The bust shouldn’t be a problem with either- see which one you like better with your shoulders. When it comes to waist, it’s all about the hips. If you have bigger hips and a thin waist, then a dropped waistline will bunch up. If you’re filled out, then a dropped waistline would look nice. Otherwise, an empire waist or asymmetrical should work. Your best bet will probably be a boutique- try designers like Maggie Sottero and Casablanca. I hope this helps!
HELP MEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have a full bust but I have an houglass figure! What to do??????????????
Try on a strapless dress- not a ballgown. I also suggest you try on one dress with a dropped waistline and one with an empire. If there’s rouching or bunching up with the dropped, empire is the way to go. If it fits nicely with the dropped, you have the option of going with a mermaid or trumpet instead of just an A-line. Be careful though, something that flares out at the bottom like mermaids and trumpets can make you look a little awkward when dealing with a full bust.
If you want something to hold your tummy and bum in place, you need good, supportive undergarments first (like a corsette). Then look at dresses that work with your body type.
Hi,
I’m having trouble picking out brides maid’s dresses for my girls. There are only three girls, and I have three colors, so each is wearing a different color. I want them all to wear knee length dresses, and a similar style dress, but not the same exact dress or the same neck line. My three girls are all EXTREMELY different and I want each of them to look very sexy on my wedding day (how many brides say that? lol). Could you help me think of what style they should wear? Here’s a description of them. (Oh, in the picture, the order of us is Maid#2, MOH, me, Maid #1. It’s a very bad picture but the only one I have on this computer)
Maid of Honor: She is around 5′3″, she’s about a C/D bra size, and a bit wide around the mid section, like 37″ or so. But from hips down, she’s tiny. Her hips are easily 33 or 34″ and she has very thin thighs. Size 6 or 8 pants and has killer legs. And her arms and shoulders are very feminine too.
Maid #1: She is around 5′7.5″, and has broad shoulders because of sports, wide arms, small bust (A/or very small B), wide mid section, also around 36 or 37″, and about 40″ hips and thick thighs as well.
Maid #2: She is 4′9″. So she’s very petite (I told you they’re all extremely different). But even though she’s small, she has the whole package when it comes to a Latina body. She’s has very feminine shoulders, but thicker arms, full bust (size C), thin waist, big hips, very big butt, and thick thighs.
So could you please help? Some want to wear halter, other strapless, etc. And it’s fine that they all wear different neck lines, because that is what I want, but I don’t know what is right for each of them.
I am 5ft 4ins and weigh 122. I have broad shoulders and small boobs. I also have a small waist but a big butt. I am kinda more athletically built, but my very broad shoulders look bad in everything! I am looking for a wedding dress that will make my shoulders look smaller and take attention away from my shoulders! Please help me!! THANKS
I am 5ft 3ins tall and weigh 198lbs. I have big hips and a belly roll. I have flabby upper arms. I am getting married at the end of this year and I need to know what kind of bridal dress will make me look slender and look good on me. Please help..
okay so im 5`7 an very long legs… thin legs and thin arms…. i have wide hips and a little pouch in front that im working on… small boobs well 34B… 130 lbs…. i dont know what i would look good in… and my wedding is in a few months…. HELP ME :((
Hi, I have decided upon Maggie Sottero - belinda. (a-line) So flattering on me although I have had to adjust the bust to give me a much needed uplift! (padded out and strapless bra!) I am 5′6, skinny arms (legs are hidden under dress anyhow) and 34A chest. Oh, my hips are very wide (my mum callwed them birthing hips lol) and the dress hugs and me while pulling in my tum! hope this helps,
Roxie xx
If I have broad shoulders which dress type should I look for
I’m 5″9 , size 0-2 and 115 lb with 34B I want to find the perfect gown, I have noticed that when i wear strapless the girls just want to come up and say hello, i want to find a the perfect dress for me, the more i look the more frustrated i . I’m looking for a more vintage feel, that will embrase my body in all the right places
Do a scoop neck or something that cuts low–strapless will be best! Avoid halter tops!
Hello
I am 5ft2″ and am “untoned”, I weigh 62 kg, have a 34B bust and quite a JLO bum with a very slight pouch on my tummy. Unfortunately my arms are far from my best feature as they are not toned so I need something to pull my tummy in, push my bust up and completely loose sight of my bum, any ideas (this will probably be quite a challenge!)
Eat clean, lift heavy weights,and 45min cardio 3-4 times a week, you will be so happy with how your body looks
Im about 5′6″ i weigh 132-135lbs. bust-about 34″ a small b cup waist about-31″ hips about 36″. i like the coset princess look…i think…i want something that is BAM! makes my figure look awesome. could you please help????
I’d like advice for someone who has broad shoulder and narrow hips, somewhat like a gymnast, 5′6″ tall, athletic build. What style wedding dress should we look for that would be flattering. Thank you.
hi, mary.
you were asking about a dress for someone w/ very broad shoulders and narrow hips, somewhat like a gymnast.
it sounds like you are describing me to a T, so i figured i would respond.
first off, i am five-four, 130 pounds, but very toned (i wear a size 5 jean and a s/m top). i am broad in the shoulders (was a gymnast for years), have a small chest (34 a), a 27-inch waist, and maybe a 35 inch hip (which is only that measurement because my butt is big, but only from the side view)
from the front/back view, i am very slender in the hip.
okay, that being said, i know what you are talking about w/ the dresses showing off your broad shoulders.
i’ll tell you, i ended up getting a trumpet satin wedding dress w/ a lace up corset.
the corset pulls the waist in and traces over your hips giving the illusion that you are curvier than you are.
don’t know if that helps or not, but i see that everyone on here is asking a question and not necessarily getting answers.
anyway, hope it helps, and i’m posting a link to my dress that i am wearing for my wedding 1/9/09…
http://www.davidsbridal.com/bridal_gowns_detail.jsp?stid=3064&prodgroup=127
good luck!
soon to be mrs. u.
I am 5′1″ Busty 34D waist 23 hips 33…I want a corsett top and sheath style dress. I workout and want something that shows that.
I am so lost…………….I do not know what size of wedding dress i should buy.
Here are my measurements : 35 in the chest (wear a 36B bra) My waist is 30 1/2 inches and my hips are 35 inches. I am wanting to buy a gown off of ebay. I have checked everything out about the seller and there store. They are legit and will refund your money.
I called their store and they told me i would wear a size 10 but then i asked them again through email and they said a size 14 cause of my hips.
The dress is a ballgown and the hips are free so why a 14? I weigh only 125 pounds.
Please help…….
I’m 5′3” and a little heavy. about 135. I have a large bust and small butt. However my middle is a little chunky. I would like to hid it. What would be best for me.
I am a 36DD. I weigh 145lbs. I have thin arms and legs. My waist is 10 inches smaller than my hips. I am a size 6 on the bottom and a 12 on top. I am very hour-glassey and curvy. What gown can I wear to my sons Bar Mitzvah? I need to have some kind of sleeve.
I’m 5′ 2″, almost 110 lbs, and I have a long torso but short legs. I normally wear between a size 0 - 2. I was wondering what kinds of dresses I could get away with, because I have my eye on one that would hug my hips a little, and I want to make sure it won’t make me look any shorter and more like a “shrimp”. Can you help?? Thanks!
I am 5′6 and 129 lbs. i am bottom heavy but small busted. What style wedding dress would look right on me. Please help!!
i am 5′6 , 240 lbs and have a large bust 44dd. what is the best dress style for me?
your website is so helpful, i am sending it to my daughter who’s saying her vows next summer. thanks. jan
We are having an evening ceremony. I want a elegant sparkling classy no fuss ..clean lines type of a wedding dress for the evening I love the idea of a short corded veil with crystal on the cording.
I’m 5″6 and weigh 105 I’m 32D bust …
I need help I do not even know where to start when it comes to a dress
i have brod shoulders and dont know what kind of dress will go with me plz help
Hi,
I am 5″ 4″ = 164cm tall and 59.8 kg. I am not so sure what is my body type, the more i read articles on body type the more confuse i am!! I cant seems to find any wedding gown thats complements my body type from the bridal shops. I almost give up already so i decided to tailor made my gown. I have broad shoulders, big arm-not so tone. I have big frame body. My bottom is heavy as well..i have broad hips and well defined curves at the waist. Could you help me and give me some ideas of what style i should go for?
Hello,
Your articles are of great help,thanks.I am 5′7 and weigh 126lbs.Do not have a very defined waistline, slender hipsand have broad sholders.What kind of dress would u recommend.thanks.
I am 157cm 55Kg, broad hip (but still looks hourglass shape ), big arm, but small shoulder, please give me advice to choose a best gown for my wedding party, better if you can show me figure or picture of that gown. thank you
I am desperate, top heavy, bust size 38 G, arms not that toned.. with rounded stomach, please what’s the best style of dress to hide all the sins and look best on my day?
I am 5′2″ with a long torso, short legs and broad shoulders. What style shoud I be looking for that will make me look slimmer and taller without shoulders of a football player? I would probably be between a size 14 and 16. I am getting amrried on an island so I am also looking for something that won’t be too hot to wear. I don’t know where to start looking.
Thanx :-)
Your best choice would be an A-line style with off-the-shoulder sleeves like you mentioned above. As the article indications, the off-the-shoulder sleeves will help minimize your chest. An a-line style is a gown with a skirt that is not huge, but is not fitted either. It covers nicely without adding to much extra dimension to your hips and thighs.
Hi,
Read your article and your suggestions, but I have a very large bust and I am also full figured. Not what I would call a big girl but thick. My ideal dress size is around a 12-14. I was thinking something off the shoulder with long sleeved lace, my wedding is in November. what type of dress would you recommend for me.