A perfect dress is the one that brings out your best features of your body and tone down those that you’re not particularly proud of, therefore, the best place to start is with you! Knowing basic silhouettes and body types as well as how they flatter your figure will help a lot when it comes to narrowing down your choice. If you nail this, then you’re in for a much more pleasant, laid-back shopping experience! Here are some tips on how to choose the best wedding gown for your body type:

In general, most women fall into one of these following categories:

• Apple-shaped

Your upper torso and shoulders are wider than the hips and legs.

Dress dos: Go for a dress that cinches in at the smallest point on your waistline then flares out into a gradual A shape. The wider the skirt is, the more contrast it will add to the narrowed midsection. A bodice with a lot of texture to it such as lace detailing or ruche and deep V neckline will camouflage and fit snugly, calling attention to your upper region more. Still worry about people focusing too much on your belly? A stunning jewelry will do the work for you.

Dress don’ts: Avoid trumpet dress styles, which emphasize your widest aspects and draw the eyes downward where you are most slender.

• Pear-shaped

Your hip region is wider than the bust.

Dress dos: Opt for an A-line silhouette with a skirt flaring out gradually from your natural waistline to the floor, which will highlight the smallest part of your midsection and disguise fuller hips. A spaghetti-strap bodice or a V neckline will also lend a more slender look to your upper body.

Dress don’ts: Steer clear of strapless and sheath dresses that can be unflattering and make even the tiniest frame look more prominent.

• Hourglass

Your bust and hip regions are pretty much the same size and separated by a slender waistline.

Dress dos: You have the curves and you need to show off your figure’s pros with body-hugging dresses like mermaid and trumpet. A high-waisted A-line gown with a low neckline also enhances your sexy silhouette. Want to emphasize your narrowest asset? Ruching at the waist, or a fabulous beaded belt would be great choices for you.

Dress don’ts: Stay away from an overabundance of ruffles and tiers since they won’t provide the support you need.

• Rectangular

Your body frame is slender overall and no significant difference between the size of your hips, waist and shoulders.

Dress dos: Aim for dresses that will create some curves where you don’t have them. A-line, Princess and Empire-waist dresses will give the illusion that you have a waistline. In case you have a small bust, opt for a bodice with some ruching or pleating to create volume.

Dress don’ts: Avoid sheath and dropped-waist styles which will make you look boxier.

• Petite

Your overall height is less than 5’4’’ with a well-defined bust and hip region.

Dress dos: The key is finding a dress with a waistline above your natural waist to lend an elongated look. Trumpet, sheath, and modified A-line gowns will work best for you. These will draw the eyes upward and create the illusion of height.

Dress don’ts: Be wary of dropped-waist dresses or ball gowns that make your legs look short and overwhelm your petite frame.

At The Gown Warehouse, we offer a wide range of stunning wedding gowns for you to choose from. Whether you are apple-shaped or rectangular, we make sure you will find a dress that flatters your shape best while enjoying a hassle-free shopping experience when hitting our bridal salon. Visit our collection here and we’re more than happy to assist you in finding your dream gown!