The Most Popular Wedding Dress Styles
From figure-hugging mermaid gowns to romantic ballgowns to modern sheath dresses, there are a variety of wedding dress styles to choose from. Statistics show that 40% of brides choose a classic A-line dress, and 25% don mermaid style gowns, so it's important to understand the differences between the silhouettes and what accentuates your figure the best when going into your local wedding gown boutique.Below, we are sharing all about the most popular wedding dress silhouettes alongside images of brides of all beautiful shapes so you can match the concept with how it looks in real life. Which shape do you love most: A-Line, Ball Gown, Sheath, Trumpet, or Mermaid?
A-Line
One of the most popular and versatile wedding dress silhouettes is the A-line. This silhouette is named after the shape it creates, resembling the letter "A." It is fitted at the bodice and waist and gradually widens towards the hemline, creating a subtle and elegant flow.A-line wedding dresses are flattering on almost all body types, as it cinches at the smallest part of the waist and skims over the hips and thighs. It gives a feminine and classic look that is perfect for brides looking for a timeless wedding style.
This silhouette can come with various details, such as strapless, V-neck, or with sleeves. It can be made with different fabrics like satin, lace, tulle, or organza.
One of the great things about A-line dresses is its versatility. You can dress it up or down depending on the theme and vibe of your wedding. It can be accessorized with a unique wedding veil, sparkly belt, a statement necklace, or a flower crown to make it uniquely yours.
Overall, if you want a dress that is classic, timeless, and universally flattering, an A-line silhouette may be the perfect choice for you.
Ball Gown
The ball gown silhouette is a classic wedding dress shape that has enchanted us for centuries! This style features a fitted bodice that cinches at the waist then flares out into a full skirt. The skirt is typically made up of layers of tulle or organza to create a voluminous look.The ball gown is perfect for brides who want to feel like a true princess on their wedding day. The full skirt adds drama and glamour to a bridal look while the fitted bodice accentuates the waist and creates a feminine silhouette. This style is also great for brides who want to draw attention away from their hips or legs, as the full skirt focuses on a bride's bust and waist area instead.
When it comes to accessories, a ball gown looks beautiful with a long cathedral veil, shimmery jewelry, or even bridal gloves. However, because the dress is already so dramatic, keep the accessories simple and understated. Or if you are one of those extra brides, then YOLO and bring on the glam! We are just here bringing some suggestions, but at the end of the day, be you!
Overall, the ball gown silhouette is a perfect choice for brides who want to feel like royalty on their wedding day (Bridgerton wedding, anyone?). It's a timeless look that will never go out of style, and it's sure to make any bride feel like a fairy tale.
Sheath
The sheath silhouette is sleek, elegant, and perfect for brides who want to show off their curves. This style is also known as a column or straight dress and is form-fitting from the neckline to the hem. Sheath dresses are perfect for a more modern and sophisticated look and can be styled with simple, minimalist accessories. The sheath style can also take form in the alternative bridal pantsuit or jumpsuit!This silhouette especially works well for tall brides who want to elongate their silhouette. It's also a great option for those who want to show off their figure as the dress will hug your curves in all the right places. However, it's important to note that this style may not be the best choice for brides who want to minimize certain areas or those who are looking for a more traditional look.
When it comes to choosing the right fabric for a sheath dress, look for something lightweight and flowy, like silk or chiffon. This will help to create a beautiful, soft draping effect that flatters the body. If you want to add some texture or embellishments to the dress, be careful not to overdo it. The simple, streamlined nature of the sheath silhouette is what makes it so appealing, so don't distract from that with too many frills or details. You can let your wedding rings take a spotlight instead!
Overall, the sheath silhouette is a stunning choice for brides who want to showcase their figure in a modern, sophisticated way. If you're looking for a dress that's elegant, timeless, and shows off your curves, then a sheath wedding dress might just be the perfect choice for you.
Trumpet
The trumpet silhouette is a popular choice for brides who want to highlight their curves and add a touch of drama to their wedding dress. This style features a fitted bodice that flares out at the mid-thigh, resembling the shape of a trumpet or a fluted musical instrument.One of the advantages of the trumpet silhouette is that it accentuates the waistline and the hips, creating a feminine and elegant silhouette. It's a great option for brides who have an hourglass figure or want to create the illusion of curves. Additionally, the flared hemline allows for easy movement and dancing, making it a practical choice for brides who want to be comfortable and stylish all day long.
When it comes to fabrics and embellishments, the trumpet silhouette works well with a variety of options. For a classic and timeless look, you can opt for a satin or lace trumpet dress. If you prefer a more modern and daring look, you can choose a dress with illusion or sheer panels, beading, or feathers. The trumpet silhouette is versatile enough to suit different styles and tastes, so you can personalize it to your liking. Consider a wedding hair piece as well for a beautiful accessory if you're not into traditional veils!
However, it's worth noting that the trumpet silhouette is not for everyone. Brides who are self-conscious about their midsection or thighs may feel uncomfortable in a dress that highlights those areas. Also, if you have a pear-shaped figure, you may want to ensure your sleeves or straps draw balance to your bust area with the trumpet's flare (like in the photo above!).
Overall, the trumpet silhouette is a stunning choice for brides who want to make a statement with their wedding dress. It's bold, feminine, and elegant, and it's sure to turn heads on your special day. Just make sure to try on different styles and fabrics to find the perfect fit for you.
Mermaid
The mermaid silhouette is one of the sexiest and most popular styles in wedding dresses. The style is characterized by a tight-fitting bodice that hugs the waist and hips, before flaring out at the knee or calf in a dramatic skirt reminiscent of a mermaid tail. It is a perfect option for brides who want to show off their curves on their special day.Mermaid wedding dresses come in different styles, from simple and elegant to heavily embellished designs. Some have straps or sleeves while others are strapless. This style is also versatile when it comes to fabrics. From delicate lace to flowing tulle, the mermaid silhouette can be created with various materials. The mermaid gown also would shine with a statement bridal veil!
While mermaid dresses look stunning on every body types, they really flatter women with hourglass or pear-shaped figures. It emphasizes the waist, hips, and curves, providing an incredibly feminine silhouette. However, if you are looking to draw attention to your whole body, this style may not be the best option for you.
One thing to keep in mind with the mermaid silhouette is its restrictive nature. It can be challenging to move or sit comfortably, so make sure to practice sitting, standing, and dancing in your dress before your wedding day. This style also requires special attention to your undergarment choices to create a seamless look.
Be Inspired By Our Other Wedding Fashion Ideas on Tidewater and Tulle
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