The Bridal Gown Fit Test
There is nothing more frustrating than trying to find the perfect ensemble. Now try and extend that frustration to finding the perfect bridal gown, the most photographed outfit a woman will where in her life; as it should be considering the price tag. That said there are ways for brides to find a fit that suits their specific shape and size.
Before venturing out into the chaos that bridal shopping can be, especially if it is a massive sale where sharp elbows and swift scissor-kicks to the face are not uncommon, do a little research at home. The bride can bypass any in-store headaches by first identifying her general body type. This is not an in-depth science; it is simply looking at some recent photos and deciding whether her body falls into one of several categories including hourglass, petite, apple and pear, among others.
After determining body type, there are guides to help focus on styles that flatter and accentuate a specific body. For example, an hour glass shape can take on body hugging, curvy styles like the mermaid dress with ease. This same dress style would not be recommended for an apple or pear shape. For those shapes, an A-line dress or ball gown would be absolutely stunning. It takes patience and a little honesty for a bride to realize her body type, but once it is accepted, bridal gown hunting will become more pleasurable.
This same style guide can work wonders for the entire bridal party. Bridesmaids face the same dilemmas while searching for a wedding appropriate dress. Most bridesmaids would be elated to find a style that flatters them and does not fall into the dreaded “bridesmaid dress.” A style that fits their body can likely be worn again for special occasions. Brides and maids should spend an afternoon simply figuring out their body type and accompanying styles, and then make the arrangements for the big shopping day.
With all the leg work taken care of ahead of time, shopping for bridal gowns and bridesmaids dresses can be a fun and memorable event. The wedding dress might not get a second chance at making an appearance, but the bridesmaid dresses could pop out again at a future evening affair or cocktail party. It all lies in being honest and letting the basic guidelines reveal which dresses showoff the varying bridal party shapes, then dressing accordingly.
About the Author
With a long career in the wedding industry, let Dakota Ellis help you find the top picks in bridal gowns.
