Wedding Dress Silhouette Guide
may 2021
What Is A Wedding Dress Silhouette?
When wedding dress shopping, narrowing down what silhouette you prefer is a great starting point. What is a wedding dress silhouette? Simply put, the silhouette is the overall shape of the gown. There are many types of wedding dress shapes that range from slinky sheath to voluminous ball gown, so we’ve created this guide to help.
Wedding Dress Silhouettes
Fit-and-Flare Wedding Dress
The term “fit-and-flare” is basically an umbrella term for any gown shape that is fitted through the bodice and hips and then flares out toward the bottom.
“Mermaid” and “trumpet” shapes fall under this category. A mermaid wedding dress typically has the most drastic definition between the fit and the flare, being tight to the body down to the knees. Any degree of fit-and-flare wedding dress will accentuate curves and create a sexy, dramatic shape.
A-line Wedding Dress
An A-line wedding dress is a classic gown shape that is fitted on the top, narrowing at the waist, then gradually flares out toward the hem (think the capital letter A.) A common silhouette with both designers and brides, an A-line gown is the most versatile shape. Whether the skirt is flowy or structured, A-line wedding gowns are romantic and universally flattering.
Ballgown Wedding Dress
The ballgown wedding dress silhouette is a statement. A fitted bodice with a large, full skirt paints a magical form on any bride. Grand, extravagant, and undeniably bridal, ballgowns flatter nearly every figure by highlighting the narrowest part of the body. While some ballgowns channel a fairy-tale vibe, ballgowns are also for the cool and modern bride.
Sheath Wedding Dress
The sheath wedding dress silhouette, also known as a column silhouette, is an effortless, narrow shape that falls close to the body. Some are more fitted to show off curves, and others are designed to skim the body and fall straight down from the widest point. This type of wedding gown might not have a long train; its shape is simple and unfussy, yet stunning and elegant.
What Wedding Dress Is Right For My Body Type?
At Anna Bé, we firmly believe that every bride of every shape should feel beautiful and confident on their wedding day. There is no one “right” fit for any body type. When choosing a wedding dress, it all comes down to how you feel in your gown. Some brides want to feel sexy and show-stopping, others want to feel modest and classic, while others want to feel bold and unique. We have a gown for every bride.
We can help direct you to certain shapes based on what features you’d like to highlight. For example, a plunging neckline can offer an elongating effect for petite brides, highlight the bust-line, or help create an hourglass shape. To highlight your waist, an A-line or ballgown shape will accentuate the waistline. Want to show off your legs? Opt for a gown with a slit. If you love your shoulders or collarbone, look for strapless, off-the-shoulder, or spaghetti strap options. To showcase your back, look for gowns with a low or open back. If you want to show off your figure and feel sexy on your wedding day, shop fitted gowns for a flattering bridal look.
Ultimately, your wedding dress will make you feel beautiful and special on your big day, regardless of what fit you choose.