The truth of the matter is that we all have different style preferences, and we all have different body types. First, we must highlight that there are 4 main body shapes which are apple (round), pear (bottom hourglass), full hourglass, and rectangle (athletic). Often times we see a dress in a magazine, in a show, on someone else walking down the street, and we tell ourselves that we want that dress simply because we believe that it will look the same on us. Sometimes, the dress is a hit! It fits us like a glove. Other times, we are left disappointed because it does not fit quite right with our body shape. If you have ever felt this way, you are not alone. We are here to help.
If you are planning a wedding or hope to one day be married, chances are that you are thinking about a wedding outfit. Some brides opt for something more unconventional, but in this feature, we will be discussing wedding dresses. We will focus on; style history, body shape, and statement. There are many styles of wedding dresses, but we will be exploring five as these are the most popular styles of wedding dresses.
Ball Gown
Style History:
The ball gown style gained popularity in the 19th century adapted by the French after the French revolution. Many believe that the French expanded on Greecian styles worn by women. The English finally adopted this style, which was made “poofier” due to the layers of undergarment and petticoat that were worn underneath. In the 1950s, the waistlines of ball gowns were streamlined while keeping the full skirt, which gives us the look we have today.
Body shape:
This style of dress is best suited for those with an hourglass, pear (bottom hourglass), or athletic body shape. This dress accentuates the torso and draws attention to the build of the body from the neck to the waist. The full skirt allows the bride to choose a lavish or simple style to showcase their unique personality.
Statement:
The ball gown style allows for a sleek traditional look, with a bit of drama and romance. It makes guests reminisce about romance stories read and is often said that it leaves brides looking like a princess.
A-Line
Style History:
The A-line style came into roaring popularity in the 2000s, but prior to that, it was designed as a cost-saving measure in the 1950s after the second world war. Brides had been using furnishing fabrics (think couch covers) to create their wedding dresses during the 1940s, and as the world readjusted after the war, it was costly to buy the quantity of fabric needed to create wedding ball gowns, thus other wedding dress styles were born with the A-line being one of them.
Body shape:
This style of dress is best suited for all body types. It accentuates the torso and draws attention to the build of the body from the neck to the waist. This style also allows for a wispy (soft, wind-like) look with the right fabrics used.
Statement:
The A-line style allows for a dramatic look to be created. It is versatile and is often said to make the bride look as though she glides as she walks.
Mermaid
Style History:
Around the 1930s, a French designer by the name of Marcel Rochas introduced mermaid-style gowns to the mainstream market. It gained popularity in the 1950s, especially among Hollywood actresses, and became a staple in wedding dress fashion. Many brides love this style because it is a mix of sexy and feminine with a shape that is created to fit the ‘female form’.
Body shape:
This style is best suited for hourglass and athletic body types. It accentuates all parts of the body and is often form-fitting (skin tight). Dramatic elements are often added to the top or base of the dress, with detailing included throughout the dress that can be as simple or as elaborate as the bride desires.
Statement:
The Mermaid style allows for a sexy yet sophisticated look. It leaves little to the imagination in regards to the body shape of the bride wearing the dress, and it creates an air of intimate mystery for the bride and groom.
Fit and Flare
Style History:
Also in the 1940s and 50s, with the popularity of A-Line dresses came fit & flare dresses. This dress style was popularized by Christian Dior who in his early forties wanted to create a look that celebrated femininity though there was a lack of textile resources after WW2. Although many thought that the style was a waste of fabric (especially considering how much fabric was needed to create a full skirt), there was no denying that this style stood out in unique ways. Today, it is a very popular style among many brides.
Body shape:
This style is best suited for hourglass and pear-shaped body types. This dress accentuated the bust and waist while allowing for a looser fit below the waist. The Fit-and-Flare style, with its fitted waist and full skirt, creates the allure of an hourglass effect for any bride who desires this on her wedding day.
Statement:
The Fit-and-Flare can be crafted in three unique ways; a vintage style, a modern style, or a customized design. These various styles allow for each bride to customize her look to fit her vision for her wedding day.
Short
Style History:
Short wedding dress styles are not a new style though they did not gain popularity until 2010. Throughout history and in various traditions, wedding garments are made in varying lengths, however, in 2010, modern short wedding dress styles gained popularity for their unique statement at weddings.
Body shape:
Short wedding dresses are best suited for brides with pear or athletic body shapes. Usually crafted in a Fit-and-Flare style, these dresses accentuate the bosom while adding a bit of flare from the waist down. They are also a great way for the bride to show off her legs as she walks down the aisle.
Statement:
Short wedding dresses are a bold statement choice. Though they have gained popularity since 2010, many brides still opt for longer floor-length wedding dresses. However, for brides who want that modern-day look with a splash of their own; be it a focus on their shoes, their headpiece, or accessories; short dresses provide a one-of-a-kind statement for your wedding in their own unique way.
