Before you say ‘yes’ to the dress, we recommend you read this article carefully; then print it out and take it with you to the boutique!
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It’s so important to choose a Wedding gown that complements your shape – highlights your best assets and draws attention away from your problem areas. So, we’ve spoken with The SPOSA Group’s Madina who’s dressed hundreds of Brides in her time to get the seven rules you need to know before you pick the right gown for your body shape.
1. Get the Foundation Right
For all body shapes, the first rule is picking the right underwear to go under the gown. Don’t think you have to wear lashings of lace and the skimpiest lingerie just because it’s you Wedding day; opt for seamless shapers and smooth bras. Make sure you take a t-shirt and strapless bra, as well as a pair of nude seamless panties along with you to try on gowns.
2. Cinch It
A cinched waist is universally flattering. If you’re curvier, a thin sequinned or jewelled belt on the waist will cinch you in; alternatively, if you’re petite, consider a wider sash to give you curves.
3. Don’t Forget the Shoulders
If you’re a pear shape (small shoulders, larger thighs/butt/hips), the aim is to balance out your top half with your bottom; a great (and very trendy) way to do this is with padded or embellished shoulders. Think: beading, jewels and anything to draw the eye up!
4. No Less for Strapless
For our Fairies with small busts, it’s a good idea to opt for a halter or sweetheart neckline to give your bust a bit of va-va-voom. Strapless gowns make it tricky to give you a sneaky boost (because there’s nothing to hold your bust up)!
5. Mermaid Cut
We love a mermaid silhouette, but being able to pull off this daring style requires a certain body shape (or some help from shapewear!). This style suits slender figures as it hugs the body and helps create curves. If you’re on the fuller side, make sure you speak to your dress fitter about tactics for making it work for your shape.
6. Pulling off a Ballgown Skirt
It’s the classic Bride look – a full dramatic ballgown skirt – and the good news is that this style suits most shapes. The only thing to be wary of is if you have a larger bust or are on the short side, as the full skirt can overwhelm you.
7. Hemline Hero
Use the hemline of your gown to flatter your figure. Long gowns and trains suit all body types (yay!), however, if your calves and legs are a problem area, steer clear of ankle or shin-skimming gowns.
The Sposa Group is the flagship store for renowned international bridal fashion designers Demetrios, Cosmobella, Divina Sposa by Elianna Moore and Orea Sposa, as well as the exclusive stockists of the luxury Demetrios Platinum collections. The Sposa Group offers exceptional customer service, attention to detail, and demi-couture designs that allow every bride to create their dream gown!