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Wedding Gown Styles

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When selecting your wedding gown there are several choices to be made. You must determine which style of gown, or silhouettes, look best on you along with the type of train and accessories you prefer. Try on gowns of all styles to see which is most flattering with your size, skin color, and hair color. Try on gowns made of different colors and fabrics. Different fabrics and styles work better on certain body types. If you have a fuller figure you may not want a clingy fabric with a high neckline. A V-neck style will minimize your bust and emphasize your waistline. A petite bride should opt for a more delicate pattern and trim above the waist of the gown. A lot of detail in the skirt of the gown draws the eye downward which makes you appear shorter.

Keep in mind that wedding gowns are sized differently than normal street clothing. Most gowns average two sizes larger, but each designer has their own sizing charts.

The following are just a few wedding gown and train styles from which you will be choosing:

• Princess/A line – A form fitting bodice that flares out from the waist to a full skirt. This style is flattering to most figures. It helps to hide fuller hips and adds curves to a straighter figure.
• Ball gown – A very full skirt that begins at the waist and continues to a formal length skirt. This is a flattering look for an average to tall bride. This look is often overwhelming on a petite person.
• Sheath – A form fitting bodice with a straight or close fitting skirt. The skirt is normally ankle length with a slit in either the front or back. Often, a detachable train can be added to the sheath to form a ball gown style. This style is best for a slim bride.
• Basque waist – A dropped waist that starts out at or just below the waistline and dips to a V-shape in the center. Flattering to a taller bride or one who wants to hide the hip area.
• Bias cut – Clings slightly to your body and then flares away gently. This style is best for a slim figure.
• Box pleated – A natural waistline with deep pleats in the fabric.
• Empire – A narrow bodice with a waist that is gathered just below the bust flowing to a slender skirt. This style is good for a bride who wants to focus attention upward. This is a good style for a petite bride and one with a thicker waist.
• Cathedral/Monarch train – A train that cascades six to eight feet behind the wedding gown.
• Chapel train – A train flowing three to four feet behind the wedding gown. This is the most commonly used train.

Next Page: Dressing for a Second Wedding

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