Wedding dresses come in hundreds of styles, shapes and sizes and, even if you have your heart set on a certain style, it can still be quite a lengthy and overwhelming process to find the perfect one. From strapless to sweetheart necklines, the one vital thing a bride-to-be must consider when shopping for a dress is their body shape. At Merrimu, we are proud to have a longstanding reputation as one of the best wedding reception venues in Melbourne. We have over 60 years’ experience in hosting wedding celebrations and we have seen an endless number of wedding gowns over the years. Read on for our guide to finding a figure-flattering gown that will ensure you feel comfortable, classy and confident on your big day.
For Pear-Shaped Brides
The most common body shape amongst women, anyone can be pear-shaped regardless of whether they are short or tall, petite or a little heavier. Pear-shaped is where the widest part of your body sits around your hips, so the aim of the dress should be to balance out your top half and emphasise your womanly shape. A gown with a fuller base that comes out at the hips, emphasising your waistline is the key. A strapless gown is also a great option, making more of a feature of your top half.
For Those Who Are Short or Petite
For smaller brides, the simpler the better. Anything with a simple, structured lining will enhance and flatter your frame, without overwhelming it. A dress that is narrow at the base, such as a fishtail, is also a great choice as it pulls in at the bottom and appears to extend your height. Sleek pencil cuts also give the effect of lengthening a slight frame. An empire waistline would also be perfect, it draws the eye to just below the bust, making legs appear longer.
For Hourglass and Curvy Figures
Often considered the ideal feminine shape, a naturally curvy physique should be celebrated with a figure-hugging gown that enhances the hourglass shape – asymmetrical dresses are the key. For bigger hips, a classic, full-length pencil skirt will elongate the body but also hug your gorgeous figure. A mermaid or trumpet skirt gown are the go-to gowns when it comes to showing off curves, they flatter and accentuate the bust while their main focus is on the hips, with the end of the skirt erupting out in ruffles of tulle.
For Apple-Shaped Ladies
Women who fit under the apple shape category will usually have most of their weight up top, usually with a larger bust. The perfect wedding dress styles for apple beauties are those with accentuated waistlines and the ever-reliable A-line gown. The emphasis placed on the lower half of the silhouette with an A-line flowing skirt will create a balance on top, giving an overall flattering and even silhouette.
For the Tall and Slim
With long, slender limbs, brides with this statuesque body shape can choose pretty much any style dress they like. While a standard A-line or pencil-type dress will be sure to suit, try something bigger and fuller with flowing skirts and lots of detail. For those lacking curves around the hips or bust, a classic yet subtle A-line style will give the illusion of curves, with a flowing skirt and enhanced waistline. So too will an accentuated neckline, such as a cowl neck or a sweetheart strapless bust.
Choosing the perfect dress doesn’t have to be stressful. Just remember, don’t be tempted to hide your shape or be afraid to show off what you have. Choose something that will both flatter your shape and have you feeling relaxed, comfortable and confident on your special day.
If you have said yes to the dress, but have yet to find the venue, make an appointment to visit Merrimu today. With charming, heritage inspired buildings and sprawling, picturesque gardens we are one of the original wedding reception venues Melbourne brides have trusted for over 60 years. Give us a call today on (03) 9568 1811 or contact us online.