Choosing a wedding dress can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure which style will work best for your body shape. However, bridal gowns are available in a seemingly endless array of styles and cuts these days, and you can have most dresses altered to a perfect fit. Plus, each type of dress can completely transform your look. We've compiled a simple guide of common wedding dress styles to help you find the most flattering wedding dress for your body type. However, don't let the "rules" hold you back – if you feel confident in a dress and love the way you look, go for it!

A vector of four brides in different wedding dress styles with different body types. | Normans Bridal

How to Pick a Flattering Wedding Dress for Your Body Type

The best wedding dress for your body type is the gown that you love, adore, and feel comfortable in. If you're having trouble deciding, however, you may wish to explore the following recommendations that will help you accentuate your best features:

1. For the Hourglass Figure: The Mermaid Gown

If you’re searching for wedding dresses for an hourglass figure, a mermaid gown may be the best choice. Choosing a mermaid gown is a perfect way to celebrate your curves. If you have an hourglass figure, this type of dress follows the natural and feminine contour of your chest, waist, hips, and thighs before flaring out below your knees. Some brides feel like they should hide their curves with a less form-fitting dress, but the extra volume may hide their beautiful figures. We also recommend trying on a mermaid dress when you go shopping even if you don't have defined curves because this dress can accentuate your waist and give the illusion of an hourglass figure.

2.  For the Pear Shape: A High or Wide Neckline

Women with a pear-shaped body have a smaller chest and shoulders and wider hips and thighs. To balance out this type of figure, draw attention to your shoulders. One easy way to pull eyes upward is with a high neckline. An illusion neckline with a sheer fabric overlay extending from the bust to the collar looks elegant, while a halter top can be trendy. For a romantic and classic look, you can't go wrong with an off-the-shoulder wedding dress for pear-shaped body shapes.

3. For the Petite Bride: A-Frame with a V-Neck

If you're in the 5'4"-and-under club, the letters A and V are your best friends. A-line dresses cinch at the waist and flare out, but not quite as much as a ball gown. While A-line dresses are flattering on nearly every body type, they especially compliment smaller frames by giving definition to your waist and bust. If you're on the shorter side (curves or not) a V-neck can add height to your figure by creating the illusion of a longer torso. Don't worry if you have a smaller bust; silicone cups, which are stitched into many dresses, will help your chest look full and natural.

4. For the Tall Bride: The Ballgown

It's easy to feel like Cinderella in the perfect ballgown. If you're a tall bride, why not embrace your height and feel like you're in a fairytale with this dramatic style of wedding dress? A ballgown may overwhelm shorter frames, but taller women can wear ballgowns with confidence. Throw a pair of heels on or go with flats – you make the rules on your wedding day!
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Are you looking for the best wedding dress for your body type? If you live near Springfield, Missouri, stop by Normans Bridal, a full-service bridal salon. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations regarding style, fabric, and color, and we will assist you with zippers, laces, and buttons to ensure that the appointment runs smoothly. In addition, we would be happy to offer honest feedback to help you narrow down your choices. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please give us a call at 417-866-9800. With our wide selection of gowns, affordable prices, and helpful consultants, you’re sure to enjoy shopping for your wedding dress at Normans Bridal.