Wedding Dress Advice

There are infinite amounts of different wedding dresses for a bride to choose from but knowing the right style that is most flattering on their body might be the most challenging. There are so many decisions to make about the cut, the train, the neckline...it can tend to be overwhelming. Doing your research regarding the type of dress that appeals to you and the type of dress that will look good on your body will help prepare you when you make your trip to the bridal store. Though there are countless amounts of dresses, there are the basic dress types.

1. Ball Gown: I hear many people call it the "Cinderella" dress. This dress is easily characterized by its full skirt coming from the waist or hip accompanied with a corset style bodice. The style most commonly fits pear-shaped, full, and thin figures. However, this style is one of the more versatile styles for all figures.

2. A Line: This style is usually characterized by its smooth transition from bodice to skirt. The skirt is also a full skirt but is smaller in size than the Ball Gown. This is the most flattering for all body types except for women that do not have a defined waist line.

3. Empire: Its waist line moves from waist to underneath the bust creating a more fitted bust line followed by a smooth skirt. A common material for these types of dresses in a flowy chiffon. This dress is most pleasing to women with no defined waist line and petite women. Because of the fitted bust bodice, it creates the look of being taller.

4. Sheath: This dress style is recommended for the petite woman because it also creates the look of being taller. Its cut is very thin and hugs every curve, sometimes with a pencil skirt.

5. Mermaid: Though very similar to the Sheath dress type, there is one difference it its charcteristics - the bottom. The bottom of the dress, usually beginning at the knee, is flared and wider than the sheath style.

Advice when dress shopping:
1. Though there are styles that compliment all body types, I always advise to go with your gut instinct. Even if people say that your body type "doesn't go" with the particular style you like, try it on. You will never know unless you try. If they were right move on and try something else, but if they were wrong you'll be happy to know that your instincts were correct.
2. Don't go dress shopping after you've purchased your dress because most of the time it'll just confuse you. Do all the shopping before the purchase. Many shops have a no return policy so you might lose the money you've invested in the one you already know you loved.
3. When going dress shopping for the first time, take one person with you. It helps your gown consultant find out what you like instead of what your friends/family like. When you've narrowed down your selection, invite everyone to help choose.
4. Have fun! This experience is supposed to be one of the funnest parts of planning!