The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Which Wedding Dress Suits You
Your wedding day is one of the most important and memorable events in your life. Finding the perfect wedding dress can be a daunting task, but with this ultimate guide, our P.S. Bridal Stylists will determine what dress suits you best!
Top stylist tips on finding a dress that suits you best:
1) Determine your body shape
2) Research popular wedding dress styles
3) Consider your wedding venue and theme
4) Try on’s and expert advice
5) Hire a wedding dress to save money and the planet
6) Alterations
Step by step guide to knowing what wedding dress suits you
1. Determining your body shape
When shopping for a wedding dress, knowing your shape can help you narrow down the styles that will flatter you the most. There are five body shapes: pear, hourglass, apple, rectangle, and inverted triangle. Understanding your shape can help you find a dress that flatters your figure and accentuates your best features. Here are the five most common body shapes and the styles that work best for each one:
- Pear shape: This shape has a smaller upper body and wider hips and thighs. A-line dresses work well for pear-shaped women, as they balance out the hips and create a flattering silhouette.
- Hourglass shape: This shape has a defined waist, with hips and bust that are roughly the same size. Mermaid and trumpet dresses flatter hourglass figures by hugging the curves in all the right places.
- Apple shape: This shape has a larger midsection and narrower hips and thighs. Empire waist dresses are a great option for apple-shaped women, as they highlight the smallest part of the body and create an elongated silhouette.
- Rectangle shape: This shape has a straight figure, with little to no definition at the waist. Sheath and column dresses work well for rectangle-shaped women, as they create the illusion of curves and add some definition to the waist.
- Inverted triangle shape: This shape has broader shoulders and a narrower waist and hips. Ballgown dresses are perfect for inverted triangle figures, as they balance out the proportions and create an hourglass shape.
- Research different styles - look at bridal magazines, wedding blogs, and Pinterest to find inspiration. Some styles include ballgown, A-line, mermaid, sheath, and tea-length.
2. Research popular Wedding dress styles
Once you have an idea of your body shape, you can start researching different dress styles that will flatter your figure. There are many different styles to choose from, ranging from classic and traditional to modern and trendy.
Here are some of the most popular styles:
- Ballgown: This style has a fitted bodice and a full skirt that flares out at the waist, creating a dramatic and elegant look. Ballgowns are perfect for formal weddings and create a fairytale-like feel.
The Alan Hannah Alev bridal ballgown with a dramatic train and romantic style is for you, if you're looking for that dramatic, elegant look.
- A-line: This style has a fitted bodice that flares out gradually from the waist, creating an "A" shape. A-line dresses are versatile and work well for many different body shapes. They can be formal or casual, depending on the fabric and embellishments. Browse our best A Line Wedding Dresses to rent here.
The Safin, Charlie Brear X Brides Do Good is the perfect A line wedding dress that has low back detailing and is made of a structured satin fabric; that'll give you a chic look on your wedding day.
- Mermaid/Fishtail: This style is fitted through the bodice and hips, then flares out at the knees or lower. Mermaid dresses are perfect for hourglass figures and create a stunning silhouette. They are typically more formal and are often embellished with lace or beading. Browse our best Mermaid / Fishtail wedding dresses to rent here.
The Sanyukta Shrestha Rillian is the perfect cowl neck bridal attire for those looking for a 90's theme outfit.
- Sheath or column: This style is fitted through the entire body, with a straight skirt that falls from the hips. Sheath dresses are perfect for rectangle-shaped women and create the illusion of curves. They are typically less formal and are ideal for beach weddings or outdoor weddings. Browse our best Column wedding dresses to rent here.
The Jan Si Studio, Kokku Maxi - Golden column wedding dress is the dress for you, it's great for those looking for a wedding attire that creates the illusion of curves.
- Tea-length or midi: This style has a skirt that falls between the knee and ankle and is perfect for more casual or outdoor weddings. Tea-length dresses are typically less formal and can be worn with simple accessories for a minimalist look. Browse our best Midi Wedding Dresses to rent here.
The Jessica Bennett Alexa Midi Dress is great for those looking for a casual outfit.
3. Consider your wedding venue and theme
Your wedding theme and venue will also play a role in choosing the perfect dress. Opt for a lightweight and flowy dress for a beach wedding, while a formal ballgown may be more appropriate for a grand ballroom wedding. Take into consideration the season and location of your wedding as well.
4. Try ons and expert advice
Once you have narrowed down your options, it's time to try on some dresses. Remember to keep an open mind and try on different styles that you may not have considered before. Your P.S Bridal stylist can help you for FREE through our WhatsApp chat or the in store bridal consultants can also offer helpful advice and recommendations based on your body shape and preferences.
Choose a dress that makes you feel confident - ultimately, the most important thing is choosing a dress that makes you feel beautiful and confident on your special day. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and choose a dress that reflects your personality and style.
Browse our full collection of wedding dresses to rent here and book your try on today!
5. Hire a wedding dress to save money and the planet
If buying a wedding dress is not in your budget or you simply don't want to keep it after the wedding, renting a dress is a great option. P.S. Rental offer online rental with a wide range of dresses and designers to choose from. with at home wedding dress try ons and accessories!
6. Alterations
Whether you buy or rent your wedding dress, it's important to try it on well in advance of the wedding day. This allows plenty of time for alterations to ensure the perfect fit. Alterations can include hemming the length, adjusting the waistline, and adding or removing sleeves. Be sure to work with a reputable tailor or alterations specialist who has experience with wedding dresses. At P.S. Rental we have recommended seamstresses that work with all our dresses. Click here to enquire about our wedding dress alterations service.
Finding the perfect wedding dress can be overwhelming, but by determining your body shape, researching different styles, considering your wedding theme and venue, trying on different dresses, and choosing a dress that makes you feel confident, you can find a dress that will make you feel beautiful and special on your wedding day. And if buying a dress is not feasible, remember that renting is a great option, and that alterations can make any dress fit like a dream. With this ultimate guide, you're one step closer to finding the perfect wedding dress that suits you best.