The Only Guide for Wedding Dress Silhouettes

For every bride, one of the most special moments is when you walk down the aisle. It’s the part in the wedding when everything stops as the music plays and all eyes are on you. As this happens, you must feel confident about yourself and ensure that you are cherishing every moment. Picture this: you holding a bouquet of flowers and walking in a glacial and magical way.

When you walk, it’s as if time stops. When your escort lifts the veil, your elegant look will be unveiled. One factor that makes this moment even more special is the wedding dress you wear.

Selecting your wedding dress on your special day can be daunting, anxiety-inducing and overwhelming. However, we’re here to help and provide you with a guide on where to start.

To start, let’s find out which silhouettes and styles you should pick for your wedding dress. There are a lot of options to choose from but we’re here to guide you on which is the best for you!

What are the different kinds of wedding dress silhouettes?

Here are about 4 most common silhouettes of wedding dresses that suit various body types. Discover which silhouette matches your body type, personality and taste:

1. A-line

If you’re in a hurry and want something flattering on your wedding day, an A-line is the way to go.  It is named A-line because the wedding dress looks like the shape of a capital letter “A.” This wedding dress style is universal, flexible and timeless because it can fit well for any body type. A-line, also known as princess style, is the most popular silhouette for wedding dresses.

The style features a cinched-in waist and adds volume in the skirt, which is why it is universally flattering. This design boosts the waistline and adds volume with the skirt. It has a triangular shape that suits from the shoulders to the hips.

Despite its versatility, A-line gowns are best for pear, curvy, or petite body shapes as it helps create a slim waist and flatter the bust.

2. Mermaid

For brides who want to switch things up and create a sexy and sleek look, the mermaid silhouette can contour the body and show off the wearer’s curves. It is made to be fitted and hugged at the bodice, waist, and hips. Then, at the knee, the skirt will be flared out, which makes an iconic mermaid tail look.  

If you have an apple-shaped body, this is the look for you. It flatters the waist and hips instead of narrowing them. Unfortunately, this dress could be tricky if you are planning to dance at your wedding because it might be hard to move freely when your knees are too close together. You may want to change your attire during reception or when you need to perform a complicated or lively dance.

3. Fit and flare

Commonly mistaken as mermaid and trumpet style, fit-and-flare gowns are also fitted and body-hugging from bust and waist to hips, but it gently flares the skirt out above the knee. It’s more of the relaxed version of the mermaid gown because they look alike but the wearer of the gown can still move freely compared to the mermaid style dress.

For this style, women with hourglass figures are perfect since it accentuates curves and the waist. The details of structured bodices with waist unveil your silhouette, making you a confident bride.

4. Ball gown

Ball gown wedding dresses look similar to A-line dresses but they typically are more luxurious because it starts with a fitted bodice and flares out into a large and voluminous skirt. It usually has elegant fabrics like tulle, satin, and lace. Some designers would even add embellishments to create a more sophisticated dress.

Much like the A-line wedding silhouette, it can fit any body type because the style helps emphasize the waist and hides the lower body. 

How to prepare for my wedding dress appointment?

Now that you have a vision of the silhouettes, you must also know how to prepare for your wedding dress appointment.

It’s important to ask the right questions like:

1. What is your process for making the wedding dress?

2. Can you create a wedding dress according to my tradition and culture?

3. Can you customize designs according to my vision?

It is also good to have digital inspirations like Pinterest boards or moodboards that show the dress you like. You can show the tailor or designer up to five photo inspirations.

Some bridal salons already have tools where you can view silhouettes and samples on their website. For example, at Salva Atelier, the website previews all the designs you may need and it even has an AI tool that helps search for your design. The sketch of your wedding dress can also be prepared digitally.

It is also advisable to bring appropriate undergarments for health reasons as you fit your dress. Soon, Salva Atelier will sell undergarments for the client to wear along with the customized wedding dress.

Where to get wedding gowns made?

If you’re near Philadelphia, the best bridal parlor to go to is Salva Atelier. Its newest showroom opens soon but we are currently accepting orders.

At Salva Atelier, they collaborate directly with clients to bring their vision to life, with prices starting at $1,500 for customized prom gowns and evening wear and starting at $4,500 for bridal gowns.

Check here to view appointment pricing and costs of each bespoke gown that you would like to buy.