Finding the perfect wedding dress for your body shape will help you feel more confident on your wedding day. Each body type has unique features that can be accentuated or flattered with the right dress silhouette, neckline and waistline. A well-fitted gown enhances your best assets and ensures you feel comfortable throughout your special day, allowing you to shine as you walk down the aisle truly.

This article will cover everything you need to know about body shapes and the best wedding dress styles for each body shape.

Understanding body shapes

Understanding your body shape can help you choose clothing styles that flatter your figure, accentuate your best features and create a visually pleasing balance. So, how do individuals identify their unique body type? Several common categories include the hourglass, pear, apple, rectangle and inverted triangle shapes.

Hourglass

The hourglass shape is characterised by a well-defined waistline, with the bust and hips relatively equal. People with the hourglass shape typically have curves in all the right places.

Pear

The pear shape features a smaller bust and waist compared to wider hips and thighs. The lower body tends to be the focal point, while the upper body is comparatively smaller.

Apple

Apple-shaped bodies typically have a broader midsection. The bust and waistline are often larger, while the hips and legs are slimmer.

Rectangle

The rectangle shape is characterised by a straight silhouette with minimal curves. Those with a rectangle body shape will have relatively equal measurements of the bust, waist and hips, showcasing a balanced & symmetrical figure.

Inverted triangle

Those with the inverted triangle shape have a broader bust and shoulders, with a narrower waist and hips. The upper body is more prominent compared to the lower body.

Wedding dress styles for each body shape

A-line wedding dresses for pear-shaped bodies

Pear-shaped bodies have a narrower upper body and wider hips and thighs. To flatter this body shape, A-line wedding dresses are an excellent choice. An A-line dress features a fitted bodice that gradually flares out from the waist, resembling the shape of the letter "A." This style helps balance out a pear-shaped figure's proportions by accentuating the waistline and skimming over the hips and thighs. The A-line silhouette creates a graceful and elegant look while providing a comfortable and flattering fit for pear-shaped brides.

Mermaid / Fitted wedding dresses for hourglass figures

A well-defined waistline and balanced proportions between the bust and hips characterise hourglass figures. We recommend fitted gowns such as Mermaid, trumpet or Fit and Flare to enhance and showcase this figure. These styles of gowns will accentuate the smallness of your waist while hugging your curves, highlighting the curves of an hourglass shape and creating a stunning and glamorous bridal look.

Ball gown / Empire Waist wedding dresses for apple-shaped bodies

Apple-shaped bodies carry weight predominantly in the midsection, with a broader waistline and fuller bust. Ball gowns and empire waist wedding dresses work exceptionally well to complement this body shape. Ball gowns feature a fitted bodice paired with a voluminous skirt, whereas an empire waist gown brings the waistline higher to just under the bust, creating an elongated and slimming effect. Both styles accentuate the bust and waistline while camouflaging the midsection providing a flattering fit for apple-shaped brides.

Sheath or column wedding dresses for petite frames

Petite frames are characterised by shorter stature and smaller proportions. Sheath or column wedding dresses are ideal for petite brides to create an elongating and proportionate look. Sheath dresses have a slim, straight silhouette that gently skims the body from the neckline to the hem without excessive volume or layers. This style creates a sleek and streamlined appearance, making petite figures appear taller and more elongated. Column dresses are similar but have a slightly looser fit. Both options offer a minimalist and sophisticated look, perfect for showcasing a petite bride's natural beauty without overwhelming her frame.

Empire waist or flowy wedding dresses for plus-size & curvy bodies

Plus-size and curvy bodies can be beautifully enhanced with an empire waist or flowy wedding dresses. Empire waist dresses feature a high waistline just below the bust, with a loose and flowing skirt draping over the midsection and hips. This style emphasises the smallest part of the body while providing a relaxed fit for plus-size brides. Flowy dresses, such as A-line or ballgown styles with lightweight fabrics, also work well as they gracefully skim over curves and create a soft and ethereal look. These designs offer comfort, movement, and a flattering silhouette for plus-size brides, making them feel confident and radiant on their special day.

How to embrace your body shape

Self-love and body positivity is crucial in all areas of life, and none more so than when you are choosing a wedding dress for your dream day. Embracing oneself and celebrating individual beauty fosters confidence and allows brides to focus on their joyous moments. By embracing their bodies and appreciating their uniqueness, brides can confidently select a dress that makes them feel radiant and empowered.

Confidence tips for your wedding day

Confidence is key to helping you truly shine and enjoy the moment on your wedding day. Here are some tips to boost your confidence:

Embrace self-care: Prioritise rest, relaxation, and nourishment to feel your best physically and mentally.
Practice mindfulness: Stay present and focus on the joy and love surrounding you.
Surround yourself with positive energy: Have supportive loved ones around who uplift and encourage you.
Positive self-talk: Replace self-doubt with affirmations and remind yourself of your beauty and worth.
Trust your choices: Have confidence in your decisions regarding your dress, makeup, and hairstyle. Remember, you are radiant and deserving of love and happiness on this special day and every day.

Be confident in your wedding dress choices

Be sure to identify your body shape before adventuring into the world of wedding dresses. If you opt for a custom-made gown, work with your wedding dress designer to create a masterpiece that is right for you. You are uniquely beautiful, and there is a perfect wedding dress that will highlight your best features and make you feel absolutely stunning. Embrace your body shape and stay confident and open-minded during your search, knowing that the perfect dress is out there, waiting to make you feel like the radiant bride you deserve to be.

How to find a flattering wedding dress style for your body shape