Wedding Dresses for your body type: A simplified guide

Apr 14

Finding the dress is one of the most exciting moments in your bridal journey—but with so many silhouettes and styles out there, it can also feel a little overwhelming. The good news? Understanding your body type can make the process so much easier (and more fun!). In this simplified guide, I’m breaking down the 6 main body types and pairing each with dress styles that highlight your natural shape and make you feel like your absolute best self. Whether you're an hourglass, pear, or somewhere in between, there’s a dress that was made for you—let’s find it.

1. Hourglass

Traits:

Bust and hips are roughly the same width
Well-defined waist

Style tip:
Emphasize the waist! Fitted styles like mermaid or trumpet gowns look amazing on this shape.

2. Pear (or Triangle)

Traits:

Hips are wider than the bust
Slim upper body and defined waist

Style tip:
Balance the silhouette with volume or detail on top — think off-the-shoulder or A-line dresses.

3. Apple (or Inverted Triangle)

Traits:

Broader shoulders or bust
Narrower hips and less defined waist

Style tip:
Go for gowns that elongate the torso and draw attention downward — basque waist or deep V necklines work well. Boning and corsets to create a smaller waist.

4. Rectangle (or Athletic)

Traits:

Bust, waist, and hips have similar measurements
Minimal curves

Style tip:
Create curves with styles that cinch the waist and add volume — ball gowns or ruffled skirts are great. High neck to show off shoulders, low backs.

5. Oval

Traits:

Fuller midsection
Bust and hips may be similar, but waist is less defined

Style tip:
Look for structure and support — Ballgowns and strapless.

6. Petite

Traits:

115lbs or less
5’1 and shorter

Style tip:

Look for dresses with shorter waistlines and simpler designs. Go with exact size and don’t order up. Seamstress should be VERY good to make those last minute alterations to have the dress extrememly tailored to you. The last thing you want is to look like you are wearing too big of a gown and getting lost in it.