One of the first things you'll notice when wedding dress shopping is the huge variety of silhouettes available. A dress silhouette refers to the overall shape of the gown, and it plays a big role in how the dress will look, feel and move.
While it's helpful to understand the different styles before your bridal appointment, don't feel limited by traditional advice about what you "should" wear. The best wedding dress is the one that makes you feel confident, comfortable and completely yourself. Here are the most popular wedding dress silhouettes you'll come across.
Featured image: The One I Love
A-Line
A timeless favourite, the A-line silhouette is fitted through the bodice before gently flaring from the waist. It's elegant, easy to wear and suits all celebrations. If you're looking for a classic bridal look with plenty of freedom to move, this is a great place to start.
Ballgown
Dreaming of a fairytale wedding? The ballgown features a fitted bodice and a full, dramatic skirt that creates plenty of volume. It's perfect for formal venues and anyone who loves a princess-inspired look.
Mermaid
The mermaid silhouette hugs the body through the bodice, waist and hips before flaring dramatically around the knees. This glamorous style creates a striking silhouette and is ideal if you're looking for a fashion-forward statement gown.
Fit and Flare
A softer alternative to the mermaid, fit and flare dresses skim the body before gently widening below the hips. This silhouette offers shape without feeling overly restrictive, making it a popular choice for modern brides.
Trumpet
Often confused with the mermaid, the trumpet dress begins to flare higher on the thigh, giving you a similar fitted look with a little more freedom of movement. It's a beautiful balance between elegance and comfort.
Sheath
Simple and effortlessly chic, a sheath dress falls straight from the hips with minimal volume. Lightweight fabrics make this silhouette especially suited to destination weddings, beach ceremonies and contemporary celebrations.
Column
Column dresses have a sleek, structured shape that falls straight from the shoulders to the hem. The clean lines create a sophisticated, minimalist look that's perfect for brides who love understated elegance.
Empire
An empire silhouette features a high waistline just below the bust, with the skirt flowing softly to the floor. Romantic and relaxed, it's a lovely option for boho weddings, outdoor ceremonies or brides looking for an effortlessly graceful style.
Every silhouette looks different depending on the fabric, neckline and design details, so keep an open mind when trying dresses on. A style you never considered could end up being the perfect on for you! Find your dream dress with the help of weddingsonline.
