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Dress for your shape

Being stylish is for everyone

Dress

It doesn't matter what size or shape you are, there's a wedding gown to suit you — we promise!

Ballgown

The most traditional choice, it's typified by a fitted bodice and a full skirt. It's the most formal wedding gown and the structured shape is often set off by fabric such as organza, taffeta and tulle.

Ballgown is for you if:
You're slim.
You have an hour-glass figure — as long as your waist is thin. Otherwise, an A-line gown will be more flattering.
You're pear-shaped. Look at strapless styles that will draw attention to the top half of your body.

Skip this style if:
You're petite. A ballgown can overwhelm you, although a lower waistline, say at hip level, may elongate your figure and therefore allow for a slightly fuller skirt.


Sheath

Sheath

Sheaths are usually the sexiest wedding dresses, as they closely follow the line of the body. For best effect, sheaths come in flowing fabrics like jersey, silk, georgette and crepe..

A sheath dress is for you if:
You're thin and/or tall, although thin straps are best avoided if you have bony shoulders or collarbone.
You're petite and well-proportioned. The simple lines will lengthen your body.

Skip this style if:
You're full-figured. It will cling to full tummies.
You're short-waisted or pear-shaped. It will widen the lower part of your body.

Princess



Princess/A-line

The most flattering silhouette for most body types, the princess-style gown (known also as A-line) features vertical seams flowing from the shoulders or under the bustline down to a flared skirt.

Princess/A-line is for you if:
You're petite, short or short-waisted. The vertical lines will elongate your figure. If you love your shoulders, go with a halterneck or off-the-shoulder design. To appear taller, choose detailing above the waist to draw the eye up.

Skip this style if:
You're full-breasted. Choose a scooped or V-shaped neckline in order to lengthen the neck. Avoid unsupportive spaghetti straps and plunging necklines that accentuate your cleavage.

Empire




Empire

The high waist (just under the bustline) is the signature of the empire dress, although the skirt can be A-line or slimline. The gown can be strapless, however, long sleeves will give you a more formal or medieval look.

An empire dress is for you if:
You're short, full-hipped and/or thick-waisted. The high waist will disguise your lower body.
You have a small bust. The snug fit will make your breasts seem fuller.
You're pregnant, and need room to move (and grow).

Skip this style if:
You're big-breasted. You have a generous figure. It may disguise a few bumps but won't necessarily flatter your good points.


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Number of Comments(16) Add Comment
Posted 28 Jun 2008 by Sam
I am by no means a size 10...or even a 14...but I have found that the A line with some ruching to the side (material garthered to the side of the waist) and either strapless or "capped" sleeves (staps that just sit over the fuller part of the shoulder) to be the most flattering for me. Hides the belly and the yucky bits and gives a waist! Also, lace up is great because it sucks you in and gives the hourglass shape!  Report thisReport this

Posted 01 Jul 2008 by sarah
hear hear Julie.I am short, big busted, not proportioned at all and now pregnant. i would like the empire line, but somehow look like a tavern wench... way to be diverse cosmo  Report thisReport this

Posted 09 Jul 2008 by Theresa
True there are no styles here for full figured women, but is it a dress that matters or your marriage? I am a large woman, large breasted and of average height. I was married in pants and top from my everday wardrobe. Most of what I wear to work now is nicer and more stylish than my wedding outfit. I am 34 and happily married for 14 years. I have not worn one dress in all this time!  Report thisReport this

Posted 13 Jul 2008 by Leisa
Seriously people if you really want to know what style of dress suits you, grab an honest friend and go shopping!  Report thisReport this

Posted 15 Jul 2008 by addi
Ive read all the comment most very to the point , that the design and body shape are for the more unreal tiny lady, but its your wedding and day and you alone pick the dress ,i was married in march2008 and i have d breast and just wear what makes you feel the million dollars and have an awesome day I even went rose pink breaking all the rules and it was beautiful be brave wear what you feel 100% women on your special of days cheers ladies   Report thisReport this

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