The Style of the Dress

When bearing in mind the style of the wedding it is good to choose a dress that suits this. Traditionally a long dress is worn, but nowadays a bride may choose a mid-calf or knee-length dress. A bride should choose a dress that suits her shape rather than a dress she adores that does not do her justice. The colour is also important as certain skin-tones suit different colours of dress e.g. Ivory is the most flattering as white can look slightly harsh. Cream, light gold and cappuccino can be quite good alternatives and are suitable for certain skin tones. Paying for great quality fabrics is worth it is they are more comfortable and sit better.

Styles versus body shapes
Brides with big hips should opt for an A-line dress with a narrow bodice and a skirt that flares from the waist. Brides with hourglass figures suit ballerina-style dresses with full netting and often a tulle skirt. Note that this style can swamp more petite figures.
• Tall and slim brides suit dresses cut on the bias. This is
• not a good cut for pear-shaped brides.
• Brides with a big bust will suit empire-line dresses
• with a v-neck or straps and a seam below the bust.
• This style also creates the illusion of height.
• Pear-shaped figures suit princess dresses which gently
• flare from below the bust.
• Column dresses are only suitable for tall, slim brides as
• they hang straight and look unforgiving on fuller figures.
• If a brides top and bottom are different sizes then a
• separate skirt and bodice are a practical alternative.
• Brides with big busts must avoid too much fabric and
• ornate detailing. Strapless dresses are also not advisable
• and good underwear is essential. V-necks or scalloped
• necks are very flattering.
• High-waisted dresses can make short legs look longer.
• A fitted bodice will make small busts and waists look
• slightly larger and will also improve posture.

Trains are also important things to bear in mind when choosing a dress. The duster style is the smallest and just sweeps the floor. The puddle is more prominent yet manageable with help from the bridesmaids. The cathedral is excessively long and very difficult to manage so should be saved for more elaborate weddings where plenty of bridesmaids are on hand to make sure it does not get tangled or trodden on. It is up to the chief bridesmaid to practice lifting and arranging the train so she knows how to set it up before the bride walks down the aisle and before photographs.

Buttons can be used to gather the dress and fix it in place in order to form a draped bustle at the back of the dress later on in the day. The bride can then walk and dance without worrying about tripping or damaging her train. Ribbons are a pretty alternative to buttons.

A bride should choose a dress that suits her shape rather than a dress she adores that does not do her justice.