Choosing the best wedding dress for your figure

Shopping for a wedding dress is an exciting part of wedding planning, but it can also be daunting. Learn how to select a beautiful wedding dress to fit your body type and style.

Get insight into the types of dresses that’ll flatter you from head to toe:

Big bust: The key is to show off your décolletage without revealing too much cleavage. Scooped necklines do a great job, but if you prefer strapless wedding gowns, find one with a sweetheart neckline rather than something straight.

Petite: To lengthen your body, consider an A-line, trumpet or sheath dress. Petite wedding dresses should cinch in above your natural waist. Any fabric works, but if you’re adding detail keep it on the bodice rather than the skirt. Avoid short wedding dresses, especially at calf length.

Plus size: The best plus size wedding dresses are empire dresses, which begin under the bust and flow out gradually in an A-line. Opt for a plain, structured fabric rather than something too flowing. Make sure it is not too baggy.

Pear-shaped: Highlight your midsection and draw attention away from your hips by opting for an A-line skirt. Spaghetti straps or a V-neck will highlight your upper body. Many pear-shaped figures can pull off mermaid wedding dresses well. Avoid clingy fabrics and choose something sturdy like satin.

Tall: Simple wedding dresses work best for tall women. Look for a beautiful, silhouette dress that flaunts your natural shape and height. Avoid adding too many details to your dress – the simpler the better.

Small chested: If you don’t have curves, you can be sure that there’s a wedding dress out there that will create curves for you. Accentuate your slender body by using full-length, flowing ball gowns that cinch at your waist, or a sheath dress with wispy fabric and ruching to create shape. A ruched bodice or a padded halter-neck will work wonders.

• Decide what type of dress is most appropriate based on the style of your wedding. Should you be looking for beach wedding dresses, lace wedding dresses, vintage wedding dress or something else?
• Most women choose a white wedding dress or a similar colour, but there are many more options to consider.
• It can take six months for a dress to be made so leave plenty of time. Styles change each year so don’t buy it too far in advance either.

The key to shopping for bridal gowns is to understand what styles complement your body type. Look for a dress that flaunts your assets as opposed to what might be the latest trend, so you'll look and feel your best on your special day.