Choosing the perfect wedding dress for your body type
As a wedding photographer in London, Ontario, I've had the pleasure of capturing some of the most beautiful moments of people's lives. One of the biggest decisions that a bride-to-be makes before her big day is choosing the perfect wedding dress. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the dress that not only looks beautiful but also flatters your body type. In this blog post, I'll guide you through the process of choosing the perfect wedding dress for your body type, and as a bonus, I'll offer some tips on how to make sure your dress looks amazing in your wedding photos.
Know Your Body Type
The first step to finding the perfect wedding dress is to know your body type. Women come in all shapes and sizes, and there are wedding dresses that flatter each body type. Here are the five main body types:
Hourglass: This body type is characterized by a well-defined waist and equal hip and bust measurements.
Pear: This body type has a smaller bust and waist with wider hips.
Apple: This body type has a larger midsection and narrower hips and thighs.
Athletic: This body type has a muscular build and a straight waist.
Petite: This body type is characterized by a small frame and a height of 5'4" or less.
Knowing your body type will help you narrow down your choices and find the dresses that flatter your figure.
Find the Right Silhouette
Once you know your body type, you can start looking for dresses that flatter your figure. The silhouette of a wedding dress is one of the most important factors to consider. Here are the most common wedding dress silhouettes and which body types they flatter:
A-line: This silhouette flatters all body types, but it's especially flattering for pear-shaped and hourglass-shaped women.
Ball Gown: This silhouette is perfect for pear-shaped women who want to accentuate their waistline.
Sheath: This silhouette is best for athletic and petite women who want to create the illusion of curves.
Mermaid: This silhouette is ideal for hourglass-shaped women who want to show off their curves.
Empire: This silhouette is perfect for apple-shaped women who want to accentuate their bustline and hide their midsection.
Choose the Right Fabric
The fabric of your wedding dress is another important factor to consider. The right fabric can flatter your body type and create a stunning look. Here are some fabrics to consider for each body type:
Hourglass: Look for fabrics that hug your curves like satin or silk.
Pear: Look for fabrics that flow and drape like chiffon or tulle.
Apple: Look for fabrics that skim your body like lace or organza.
Athletic: Look for fabrics that add volume and create curves like taffeta or tulle.
Petite: Look for fabrics that create the illusion of height like chiffon or silk.
Consider the Neckline and Sleeves
The neckline and sleeves of your wedding dress can also make a big difference in how it flatters your body type. Here are some neckline and sleeve options to consider:
V-neckline: This neckline flatters most body types and is especially flattering for apple-shaped and hourglass-shaped women. It elongates the neck and creates a vertical line that can make you appear taller and slimmer. It also draws attention to the décolletage, which can be an elegant and sensual look.
Sweetheart neckline: A sweetheart neckline is a romantic and feminine choice that flatters most body types. It features a gentle curve that accentuates the bust and can help create a balanced, hourglass silhouette.
Strapless neckline: A strapless neckline is a popular choice for brides who want to show off their shoulders and collarbones. This neckline is best for brides with a smaller bust or a well-toned upper body, as it can create the illusion of a larger bust.
Halter neckline: A halter neckline is a great option for brides with broader shoulders or a fuller bust. It features a high neckline that wraps around the neck and can create a sleek and sophisticated look.
Off-the-shoulder neckline: An off-the-shoulder neckline is a trendy and romantic option that showcases the shoulders and collarbones. It can help balance out wider hips or a fuller bottom and can create an hourglass silhouette.
Cap sleeves: Cap sleeves are a popular choice for brides who want a little coverage on their arms. They offer just enough coverage without feeling too heavy or restrictive.
Short sleeves: Short sleeves are a classic and timeless option that can flatter most body types. They offer a little more coverage than cap sleeves and can help create a balanced silhouette.
Long sleeves: Long sleeves are an elegant and sophisticated choice that can flatter a range of body types. They can help create a balanced silhouette and offer coverage for brides who want to keep their arms covered.
Try on different styles
Trying on different styles when shopping for a wedding dress is essential for finding the perfect gown for your special day. Every bride has a unique body shape, and what looks good on one bride may not necessarily suit another. By trying on different styles, you'll get a better idea of what flatters your figure and what you feel comfortable wearing. This can help you narrow down your options and find the perfect dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful.
Additionally, trying on different styles can be a fun and exciting part of the wedding planning process. It's an opportunity to try on glamorous gowns and feel like a princess for a day. It can also be a chance to experiment with different fabrics, necklines, and sleeve styles that you may not have considered before. You never know, you might end up falling in love with a dress you never thought would suit you.
Finally, trying on different styles can help you avoid buyer's remorse. Wedding dresses are a significant investment, both financially and emotionally. You want to make sure you're getting a dress that you'll love and cherish for years to come. By trying on different styles, you can be confident that you've made the right decision when you say yes to the dress. Don't be afraid to take your time and explore different options until you find the one that feels just right.
Take your time
Choosing a wedding dress is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. It's important to take your time when making this choice to ensure that you find the perfect dress that fits your vision and budget. Rushing the decision may lead to regrets or disappointment, especially if you later find a dress that better suits your style. Therefore, it's essential to plan ahead and start shopping early, giving yourself enough time to explore all of your options and find the right dress for you.
Another reason to take your time when choosing a wedding dress is to allow for alterations. Even if you find the perfect dress, it may still require some adjustments to fit you perfectly. It's common for brides to need alterations to the hemline, neckline, or sleeves, so be sure to factor in enough time for this process. Alterations can take several weeks or even months, so it's important to start early to avoid last-minute stress.
Finally, taking your time when choosing a wedding dress can also help you stay within your budget. Wedding dresses can be expensive, and it's important to set a budget and stick to it. By taking your time and exploring different options, you may find a dress that you love at a more affordable price point. You can also compare prices and styles across different boutiques to make sure you're getting the best deal possible. Ultimately, by taking your time and being thoughtful about your decision, you can find the perfect wedding dress that fits your style, budget, and personality.
Get alterations
Getting alterations is an important step in ensuring that your wedding dress fits you perfectly. Even if you find a dress that you love, chances are that it may not fit you perfectly off the rack. Alterations can make a significant difference in how the dress looks on your body, and can even help to highlight your best features. A skilled tailor can adjust the length, waistline, and neckline to ensure that your dress fits you like a glove.
It's important to schedule your alterations well in advance of your wedding day. Alterations can take several weeks, or even months, depending on the complexity of the changes needed. It's also important to make sure that you have a reputable tailor who specializes in wedding dresses. Wedding dresses are often made with delicate fabrics and intricate details, and it's important to work with someone who knows how to handle these materials with care.
Another benefit of getting alterations is that it can help you feel more comfortable and confident on your wedding day. A dress that fits you perfectly will not only look better, but it will also feel better to wear. You won't have to worry about pulling up a strapless dress or tripping over a hemline. Instead, you can focus on enjoying your day and making memories that will last a lifetime. By taking the time to get alterations, you can ensure that your wedding dress is the perfect fit for you.
Remember, the most important thing when choosing a wedding dress is to feel comfortable and confident on your big day. Don't be afraid to ask for help, and trust your instincts when it comes to finding the perfect dress for your body type.
Here are some of the best wedding dress shops in or near London, Ontario: