How to Find Your Wedding Dress by Body Type

Whether you’re petite, pear-shaped, hourglass, or athletic — wedding dress shopping can bring out every bride-to-be’s insecurities. Finding the right wedding dress is all about embracing your shape and choosing styles that accentuate your frame. So when you walk into the bridal salon, it’s best to be armed with what suits your figure, and not spend that precious hour slipping on styles that would be flattering on someone else. Together with our friends at Allure we’re narrowing down how to wedding dress shop for your body type.

Plus-Size Brides-to-Be (Above)
There’s no shortage of options for brides with curves these days. We recommend embracing those curves by choosing a dress with some structure (sheaths won’t necessarily hug you in all the right places). Forget mid-length styles that cut off mid-calf and opt for a floor-length dress with little embellishment to create length. Long lace sleeves, a trend we — and Kim Kardashian — love, can also give the appearance of long slim ballerina-like arms, not to mention they are so chic and sophisticated.

Petite Brides-to-Be
If you’re on the petite side try to avoid overwhelming your small frame. Ball gowns can make you look like you were swallowed by layers of tulle, while airy sheaths and structured mermaid skirts will give you the illusion of curves and also a longer frame. Plunging V-necks were all over the runways, and for petite brides this is a great way to add some sexiness without going over the top.

Hourglass Brides-to-Be
It’s all about bodycon for the hourglass-shaped bride-to-be. Forget hiding your hips in a ball gown and make sure you are showing off your trim mid-section. A belted waist works perfectly for this body shape. Bohemian girls can still get the ethereal look of their dreams — just opt for a fit-and-flare style that accentuates your curves. Dropped waists can also be an hourglass bride’s best friend.

Athletic Brides-to-Be
Lean and straight brides-to-be, you’re in luck! You’ve worked hard for that athletic body so now it’s time to show it off. No curves, no problem — show off your great legs in a mini dress or something with a slit up to there (think Angelina Jolie at the Oscars). Beaded embellishments and contouring seams on a body hugging dress can also help create the illusion of curves. When in doubt, opt for the trend that baffles brides-to-be — a crop top! Show off just the right amount of your toned mid-section by rocking a matching set for the big day.

Busty Brides-to-Be
Finding the perfect neckline is the secret to the perfect wedding dress for brides-to-be with a larger bust. Off-the-shoulder necklines were the hit of the Fall 2017 bridal runways, and done higher they can subtly disguise a bigger bust, while still showing off curves and a super feminine decollete. If showing off those curves is number one your wish list — a demure V-neck is your best friend, and a major fashion hit. Another savior for big-busted girls is the illusion neckline — ethereal, demure, and sexy all in one!