Silhouette Guide
Your gown may appear to be a single creation. In reality, it is the sum of different elements. Individually, these parts create certain visual effects and flatter your figure. Together, they express your individual style and form your perfect gown. To start with, look at the overall silhouette of various gowns— big and puffy, sleek and slender, or somewhere in between – and decide which appeals to you most.
Ball gown
The Ballgown is the most traditional of all shapes. Romantic and fairy tale-like, the ball gown with its fitted bodice and dramatic full skirt is the epitome of the princess bride. Usually featuring a full train and volumes of petticoats, this style works well for medium height to tall women. If you are petite, you should steer clear of this silhouette as you risk being drowned in the dress and will look shorter. If you are pear shaped (small bust and larger hips), this style emphasises the waist and hides the hips, which will create a leaner silhouette.
Princess line
The Princess line is a flattering style, ideal for creating a statement that is sculptural and uncluttered. It suits most body types and heights, but looks particularly good on tall, curvaceous figures. If you have a long body and relatively short legs, the high waist and shape and flare of the skirt can help re-proportion you.
A line
The most popular silhouettefor bridal gowns, it is universally flattering on most body shapes. With a fitted bodice that is cut close to the ribcage and flared skirt in an A-shape, it is a more understated and modern take on the ball gown. There are many variations available in this style including the fullness of the skirt, the length of train and necklines. The style is elongating and the emphasised waist helps define a shapelier figure.
Empire line
Think Jane Austin's Pride and Prejudice-- raised waistline cut beneath the bust, with the skirt extending from the bust line. This style works well for most body shapes. The raised waistline elongates the body; great for hiding a pear shaped figure, short legs, long body and small busts.
Mermaid/Trumpet
Reminiscent of what Hollywood's 1930s movie sirens wore on the Red Carpet, this figure-hugging style is for those who are confident and want to show off their curves. The gown is fitted all the way to the knees where it flares out. To wear this style well, you should have a curvy figure but also be relatively slim and toned.
Fit and flare
This is a modification of the Mermaid style. The gown is fitted until it either flares out at the hip or just below the hips, which is higher than in a Mermaid, giving the bride more freedom in moving around. Typically featuring a more dramatic skirt in length and volume than the Mermaid, this style is great on medium height to tall women.
The Short/Cocktail Dress
For the bold and sassy bride, the Cocktail Dress is ideal for destination and informal weddings or as a second dress, worn during the reception. The length of the dress allows the bride to move around more freely than any floor length gown. Many of our dresses are designed to allow the bride to change from a full length, which is usually preferred for the ceremony, to a cocktail length, for the reception and party.
The Sheath/Column Dress
The Sheath is a figure-hugging and slim-fitting silhouette that is most flattering on tall and toned brides, although if you are slim and petite, it can help elongate your silhouette. It is a popular style for intimate and casual weddings as well as destination weddings such as beach weddings.
