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  • Writer's pictureDebbie, Bridal Expert

Finding Your Dream Wedding Dress Shape: A Bride's Guide

Updated: Oct 29, 2023

Your wedding day is one of the most special and memorable moments in your life.

From the venue to the flowers and decorations, every detail reflects your unique style

and personality. However, one of the most significant elements of your wedding is undoubtedly your wedding dress. The right wedding dress shape can enhance your beauty, boost your confidence, and ensure you feel like a true bride on your big day. With 20 years of experience in helping brides find the perfect wedding dress, we'll guide you through the process of choosing the ideal dress shape that complements your body, suits your wedding style, and aligns with your budget.


Understanding Your Body Shape

Before delving into the various wedding dress shapes, it's essential to understand your body shape. The key to feeling and looking your best on your wedding day is to accentuate your best features and minimize any areas you might be less comfortable with. Here are some common body shapes and the recommended dress silhouettes:




1. Hourglass

If you have a balanced bust and hip with a well-defined waist, you're blessed with the classic hourglass figure. A mermaid or trumpet dress will highlight your curves beautifully, hugging your body from the chest to the knees before flaring out. This style creates an alluring and timeless look.


Bride in a slimfit wedding dress
Slimfit mermaid shape wedding dress


2. Pear For brides with wider hips and a smaller bust, an A-line or ball gown dress is an excellent choice. These styles draw attention away from the lower body and accentuate the upper half, creating a balanced and elegant appearance.


Bride in a ballgown wedding dress
Full skirt on a wedding dress can help to hide larger hips


3. Apple Apple-shaped brides tend to have a broader bust and midsection with slimmer hips. Empire waist or A-line dresses are perfect for you. They cinch just below the bust and flow gracefully, camouflaging any concerns about the tummy area.


Bride in a wedding dress
Wedding dress with an Empire line shape

4. Rectangular If your bust, waist, and hips are fairly uniform in width, you have a rectangular body shape. You can go for a variety of styles, but a sheath dress will add curves to your frame, giving you a more defined waist.


bride modelling a lace wedding dress with satin belt
A simple wedding dress to define the waist

5. Plus Size Regardless of your specific body shape, remember that we offer wedding dresses designed with plus-size brides in mind. These dresses provide support and flattery, so you can embrace your unique beauty and feel like a radiant bride.


Plus size bride modelling a wedding dress
Fuller curves mean flaunt it!


Matching the Dress to Your Wedding Style The style of your wedding plays a crucial role in determining the appropriate dress shape. Whether you're planning a romantic beach wedding, a formal ballroom affair, or an intimate garden ceremony, there's a dress shape that will perfectly align with your chosen wedding style.

1. A-Line Dresses for Timeless Elegance A-line dresses are a versatile choice that suits a wide range of wedding styles. The classic A-line silhouette features a fitted bodice that gradually flares out, resembling the shape of an "A." This style exudes timeless elegance and works well for both formal and informal weddings. It's an excellent choice for brides who want a flattering, balanced look that's never out of fashion.


Bride modelling a BoHo style dress holding flowers
BoHo wedding dress with floaty full chifon skirt

2. Ball Gowns for Fairytale Weddings If you've always dreamed of a fairytale wedding, a ball gown is the ultimate choice. These dresses feature a fitted bodice and a voluminous, full skirt that creates a dramatic, princess-like effect. Ball gowns are ideal for formal, extravagant weddings and can make you feel like royalty on your special day.


Model in a ballgown style wedding dress for fuller figures
A ballgown wedding dress will always be a winner!

3. Mermaid and Trumpet Dresses for a Sexy Vibe For brides who want to showcase their curves and exude sensuality, mermaid and trumpet dresses are the way to go. These styles hug the body from the chest to the knees or mid-thigh before flaring out. They're perfect for glamorous, sophisticated weddings, especially when you want to make a statement as you walk down the aisle.


Model wearing ivory wedding dress
A mermaid shape will always flatter your figure

4. Sheath Dresses for Destination and Beach Weddings If you're planning a destination wedding or a beach ceremony, comfort and simplicity are key. Sheath dresses are sleek, minimalistic, and lightweight, making them perfect for warm, relaxed settings. They offer a more casual, yet elegant look that's perfect for intimate gatherings by the sea.



5. Empire Dresses for Bohemian Vibes Empire waist dresses have a high waistline just below the bust, with a flowing skirt that creates a soft, romantic look. These dresses are an excellent choice for bohemian or vintage-themed weddings. They offer comfort and an effortlessly chic appearance that's perfect for outdoor and rustic venues.



6. Tea-Length Dresses for Retro Charm For a touch of retro charm, consider tea-length dresses. These dresses fall between the knee and ankle and are known for their vintage appeal. They're ideal for less formal, quirky weddings where you want to add a unique, playful element to your bridal look.


Model wearing ivory tea length wedding dress
Love the 50's? A T-length style is perfect!

Budget-Friendly Options At our bridal shop, we understand that weddings can be expensive, and finding the perfect wedding dress while staying within your budget is crucial. All our wedding dresses are priced under £995 for orders, making it easier for brides to find their dream dress without breaking the bank. Additionally, you can purchase sample wedding dresses at a 25% discount, which means you can get a beautiful gown for £695 or less. We also offer sale wedding dresses for under £499, providing affordable yet stunning options for budget-conscious brides.

Unique and Colorful Options Are you looking for something different and unconventional for your wedding day? Consider a colored wedding dress. In recent years, more brides have been choosing dresses in shades other than white or ivory. Blush, champagne, and even bold colors like red or blue are gaining popularity. If you want to make a unique statement and show off your personality, a colored wedding dress might be the perfect choice.

Bridesmaids and Flower Girl Dresses Don't forget about your bridal party! We offer a wide range of bridesmaids and flower girl dresses that can be ordered in over 50 colors to match your wedding theme. Coordinating the attire of your bridal party with your wedding color scheme creates a harmonious and visually appealing wedding aesthetic.

Personal Attention and Expert Guidance One of the advantages of visiting our bridal shop is the personal attention and expert guidance you'll receive. We understand that choosing the perfect wedding dress is a significant decision, and we're here to assist you every step of the way. Our calm and relaxed environment ensures that you can explore your options without feeling pressured to buy. We're dedicated to making your experience enjoyable and memorable.

Quick and Responsive Service We know that wedding planning can be hectic, and you may have questions or need assistance promptly. That's why we commit to responding to your emails within 24 hours or less. Your concerns and inquiries are important to us, and we're here to provide the support you need. In conclusion, finding the perfect wedding dress shape is a journey that involves considering your body shape, wedding style, and budget. With our expertise and a wide range of options, you can be confident that you'll find the dress that makes you feel like a radiant bride on your special day. Remember that your wedding dress should reflect your unique personality and style, and ultimately, it's the one that makes you feel the most beautiful and comfortable. Happy wedding dress shopping!





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