Wedding Dress & Bridal Outfits
The Best High Street Wedding Dresses
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The Best Wedding Dresses for Your Body Type
Photography by
Megan Donati Photography
Photography by
Megan Donati Photography
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A guide to wedding dress silhouettes
As a soon-to-be bride, your proposal isn't the only time you'll be offering up a resounding "yes!" as choosing your dream wedding dress is a significant moment for every bride-to-be. As, arguably, one of the most memorable outfits you'll wear within your lifetime, getting it right is essential.
What's important to note is that finding the right wedding dress is a unique and personal experience. Beyond your sense of style and preference, choosing a silhouette that flatters your figure will make a world of difference to how a particular dress looks and feels on you.
Choosing a wedding dress based on body type isn't intended to limit what you can or can't wear on your wedding day. What's most important is feeling confident and comfortable in a gown you adore. No matter your shape or size, there's no such thing as should when selecting your wedding dress - anything goes as long as it makes you happy!
But for those who want to learn all the tips and tricks on wedding dress silhouettes, Rock My Wedding is here to help you find a dress that hugs your body in all the right places.
Whether you opt for a high-street wedding dress or have more cash to splash on high-end frocks, silhouette is everything! When a dress fits right, even budget wedding dresses can look expensive.
Types of wedding dresses for your body type
- Hourglass: You might resonate with this body type if you have a defined waist and your bust and hips are relatively balanced in size. Hourglass figures typically have a well-proportioned silhouette with curves in all the right places.
- Rectangle: If your body type is rectangular, you might have a straighter figure with minimal curves. Your bust, waist, and hips may be similar in width, creating a more athletic or streamlined silhouette.
- Round/Apple: This body type is characterised by a fuller midsection, with weight distributed around the abdomen. Round or apple-shaped figures often have a larger bust and broader shoulders, with less definition at the waist.
- Inverted Triangle: If you have broad shoulders and a narrower waist and hips, you might identify with the inverted triangle body type. This shape is characterised by a broader upper body and a more slender lower body.
- Triangle/Pear: Pear-shaped figures typically have narrower shoulders and bust, with fuller hips and thighs. The hips are wider than the shoulders, creating a more bottom-heavy silhouette.
The 10 best wedding dresses based on your body type
Hourglass
Embrace your curves with fitted styles that highlight your waist, such as mermaid or sheath silhouettes. Look for dresses with defined waistlines and structured bodices to accentuate your natural figure. These simple yet stunning gowns from Club L London and Monsoon are the perfect canvas to let your figure shine on your big day!
Rectangle
Achieve a flattering silhouette by choosing dresses that offer structure and definition. Consider sheath or A-line styles, which gracefully skim the body without overwhelming your frame. Look for designs with ruching, draping, or embellishments to add subtle volume and create a more shapely appearance. We love these dresses from Omnes and Monsoon for rectangle body types. The lace-up back of the Omnes dress allows you to draw your waist in, while the cowl neckline and A-line skirt of the Monsoon dress are perfect for adding shape and dimension.
Round/Apple
Choose dresses that accentuate your natural curves and create an elegant silhouette. Princess or A-line styles are ideal for elongating your torso and defining your waist to flatter your midsection. Opt for designs with empire waistlines and V-necklines to highlight your bust while creating a slimming effect that enhances your overall look. Run, don't walk to Chi Chi London for the dream full-skirt, v-neckline dress combo. Or, if you prefer something more structured and classic, this satin corseted gown from Coast provides a timeless look.
Inverted triangle
Balance your proportions by adding volume to your lower body while minimising the upper body. Look for dresses with full skirts or ball gown silhouettes to create a more balanced look. Avoid high necklines or embellishments on the bodice that may emphasise broad shoulders. These two dresses with gorgeous full skirts from House of CB and Whistles will give you a beautifully balanced silhouette!
Triangle/Pear
Showcase your slender upper body while accentuating your curves below the waist. A-line or princess silhouettes with fitted bodices can help highlight your waist while flattering your hips and thighs. Consider dresses with detailing or embellishments on the bodice to draw attention upward. The open back on this Reiss A-line number is perfect for drawing the eye upwards, while the beautiful lace, fitting bodice and flowing skirt are just what you need to show off your pear body type!
Choosing a wedding dress for your body type
No matter your body type, finding a wedding dress you love is key to feeling confident and comfortable on your big day. Whether you're choosing your wedding dress by body type, venue type, location, or any other factor - Rock My Wedding is here to help you find a style you adore.
For even more inspo, browse our ideas on registry office wedding dresses, high-street wedding dresses, wedding dresses for older brides or beach wedding dresses, and use this guide on wedding dresses for your body type to apply to all styles, occasions and locations!
Written by Shona Ezimogho-Moran
