Silhouettes

Every body shape deserves a gown that does it justice. Let yourself be guided by flattery, not fads, and you’ll look every bit your bridal best.

01. A- LINE

This style gradually widens from the hip to the hem, creating an ‘A’ shape as the name suggests. If you have extremely narrow shoulders and wide hips, you might want to avoid this style, which might emphasise an imbalance. However, A-line gowns are a classic for a reason: they suit most body shapes, and have a timeless feel.

02. EMPIRE

These gowns have a seam under the bust, rather than at the hip or waist. Often, the back can be designed to follow the bra line, or scoop into a low back, thereby making a feature of it. Because this style emphasises the narrowest point of your body, it can create a slimming appearance for those with wider hips and thighs. Additionally, the raised waistline can create the appearance of added height for shorter brides, and can make the bust appear more full.

03. BALL

By far the bridal world’s most regal and fairytale-esque style, ball gowns feature a slim-cut bodice, an ultra-narrow waist and a full bellshaped skirt, often created with multiple layers to give a floating effect. While the style can be overwhelming on a particularly small frame, this look suits most other body shapes.

04. SHEATH

The sheath is a long, narrow, slim-fitting silhouette which skims the body and features straight, elegant lines. It’s typically made from lighter fabrics, such as satin or chiffon, but is often seen in floaty or lacey boho styles as well. Most flattering on slim frames, the sheath silhouette is versatile, being well-suited to modern, vintage, formal and informal events. Pay special attention to undergarments as any seams or gaps that aren’t properly fitted will be highly visible.

05. MERMAID/ TRUMPET

The ultra-glam fit-andflare style features an elongated silhouette which hugs the body below the hips, and a skirt that flares at the knee or mid-thigh. This cut emphasises an hourglass shape, but might not be the easiest to walk or dance in – consider this if you’ll be trekking up a hillside for your bridal photo shoot!

SILHOUETTES The starting block of any dress, let your body shape guide you towards a gown that suits. Here, five of the most popular bridal styles.

TRAINS

A trailing skirt adds formality and a majestic touch to your wedding ensemble, and helps further differentiate your gown from that of your bridesmaids. If you’re keen for a train during the ceremony but want to ditch it for the dancing, look for a gown with a detachable train – the ultimate in-between. While some trains extend from the hem of your gown, others will extend from the waist – a feature that can dramatically alter your silhouette. Be sure to check the gown from all angles before making a decision.

NECKLINES The way your gown sits on your shoulders can transform your bridal look.

SWEEP 0.15 metres CHAPEL 1- 1.5 metres CATHEDRAL 2- 2.25 metres ROYAL 3 metres or more

STRAIGHT ACROSS This neckline suits brides who want to show off their shoulders, décolletage and arms. Its forgiving style is suitable, too, for brides with a fuller bust. ASYMMETRIC For those with narrow shoulders and a small bust, a one-shoulder...

HIGH NECK A modern look, the high neck is best for those with a small bust, narrow shoulders, a long neck and a slim face. Be sure the fabric stops well short of your chin. V- NECK As a classic, versatile neckline, almost everyone can wear a V-neck....

ILLUSION With a transparent layer above the bodice, this will suit girls who love a sweetheart neckline but want the security of straps or sleeves. BATEAU This neckline suits brides with a small chest. The shape follows the curve of the collarbone,...