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FeedDress to Impress
When choosing a dress for your big day, it is tempting to focus on the hot styles or what looks great on the models in the magazines. But the savvy bride will pick a dress that fits her own body, one that accentuates her best features and minimizes any figure flaws. Whether your figure is pear-shaped, apple-centered or linear as a banana, here are some useful guidelines as you begin the search:
The bride who is thicker in the middle should look for rich, heavy fabrics that allow for structured underpinnings in A-line gowns. With this base, those sheer overlays and drapes will compliment you, as long as they do not add bulk. Avoid sheath or column-styles, mermaid or trumpet gowns, or any drapey or clingy materials.
If your top is smaller than your bottom, the advice above also applies. But lucky you! Yours is the figure for which the classic ball-gown was conceived. Tops that fit closely—especially corset styles— accentuated by a full skirt, make you appear slender top to bottom.
If you are a plus-sized lady with an hourglass figure, you have more options than your fruit-shaped sisters. You can wear those A-line and ball gown dresses mentioned above, as well as those lovely flared mermaid skirts. Strapless styles, V-shaped necklines and halters will focus attention on your shoulders, and from there, of course, to your lovely face.
And then there is the bride with the opposite problem: no curves. She should reject any dress with a sweetheart neckline, and be cautious about strapless styles. But the sheath or column dress is your friend. To add softness and curve, choose lightweight floaty fabrics, or drapey folds that cling and flow as you move. You can pull off the classic Empire waist gown. A ball gown will work on you as well.
A problem for many brides is thick upper arms. Don’t pick tiny little sleeves that will draw attention to them! Full-length flared or draping sleeves are best for you; elbow-length sleeves will look well, too. But if the dress that has captured your heart doesn’t have these features, don’t despair—add a sheer or lace jacket to conceal the flaw while giving beauty to the whole. Or try a coordinating stole, wrap, or a short cape.
Most brides are determined to lose some pounds before the great day. But remember: No matter how much weight you lose or gain, your body type stays the same. Pick a dress because it suits your body, not because it looks good on some model who isn’t shaped like you. You gain confidence when you know you look good—and your man is going to love it!
For illustrations of these principles, I invite you to go to my web site, www.fairygodmothergownrentals.com and type East Bay Bridal in the search box.
