For me, of all the elements, factors and necessities involved in the planning of my wedding, I only had one main challenge to meet. And it didn’t include finding and booking the venue or selecting the flowers, cake, food, music, bridal party, invitations, decorations, guests or gift registries. Those things were taken care of with very little problem. No, my challenge was finding “the perfect dress.” Don’t get me wrong. I had absolutely no problem whatsoever finding gorgeous gowns. Many could have, at first glance, very easily been “the one.” The challenge for me was the process of narrowing it down. Initially, it was easy to narrow my choices simply by checking the price tag, but my dilemma continued as I began to try on each of the dresses that I could afford.

For the most part, I know my body and I know the garment silhouettes that fit my shape best, so I was able to choose gowns to compliment my figure. However, the hardest part for me was choosing which of the shapes I liked best, which of them would be “the one” — the one that I was meant to wear as a bride. As a side note, I
highly suggest you bring mom, the best friend and, if you have one, bring an aunt who does seamstress work (fortunately, I have one and she was very helpful as she was the most familiar with garment construction). Reliable members of your entourage will be the ones to offer you honest opinions and will help keep you on track, constantly moving onto the next dress so you don’t get stuck on one and end up missing out on an even better option later.  

After this experience, I was inspired to offer any of you “brides-to-be” a bit of information on wedding gowns that may give you a leg up before you even hit the boutiques. Knowing what you want and what you can afford can save a lot of time. Remember that couture dresses will cost you, so if you are on a tight budget, don’t even bother to try them on. Fashionistas like myself will have a hard time staying away from the uniquely designed beauties of couture, but you must invoke your willpower.  Not only will it take up your time, but, from my own personal experience, you may start the once-in-a-lifetime shopping experience off on a somber note.  For instance, I found four gorgeous “the one” dresses on my first day, but each was out of my price range. So trust me, this can be a bit of a bummer.

In addition to the price, have an idea of the silhouette you are looking for. As always, know what shapes fit your figure best. For instance, ball gowns have a fitted waist and bodice with a full skirt. This shape is good on most all figures. An Empire dress is gathered high, under the bust and is best for an undefined or inverted pear shape figure and is not best suited for an hourglass figure as the fabric will not accentuate your curves and will actually widen you a bit.

Next, A-Line/Princess dresses have no waist seam but still hug the upper waist and flairs from there. This dress is not the best choice for an undefined waistline but works well with most other body shapes. A Sheath dress softly contours the body and drapes straight to the floor. It is best for an hourglass shape as it does not flair at the skirt. Lastly, the Mermaid/Trumpet skirt dress, which is meant for a shapely, show-it-off figure. This shape has clinging lines and hugs the entire body from top to knee, where it flares (much like a mermaid’s tail).

When choosing your silhouette, be sure to consider what waistline you need. A natural waist, which sits above the hipbones at the most narrow part of your upper torso, is good for most body types, but best for petite women. The drop-waist, which sits at the start of the swell of the hips, is good for large busts, hourglass or slim figures, but not for boxy figures. The Basque waistline, which makes a pointed V-shape, has a great slimming effect so it is a strong choice for fuller figures.

Once you have decided on the shapes and waistlines you are looking for, think about the neckline that suits your bust size best.  I will admit, bustier women have less options; it is the unfortunate nature of being so naturally blessed when it comes to clothing. The basic necklines to look for if you have a larger bust are strapless, sweetheart, off-the-shoulder or a scoop. Women with smaller chests should go for a jewel, scoop, bateau or Sabrina neckline. Also, for broad shoulders, halter styles work best.

Now these are the basics, there will be, of course, other variations outside, but you will surely be able to “narrow it down” from here. The main thing to remember is have fun! Enjoy the experience and do NOT let yourself become overwhelmed. You WILL find the dress, “the one” you were meant to wear as a bride. From one bride to another, I wish you the best of luck in your search and much happiness in your marriages. 

Xoxo,

Rhonie

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