How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Dress for Your Body Type: Expert Tips for Brides

Suzanne Novak
Jul 1
3 min read

Choosing your wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning — but it can also feel overwhelming. With so many wedding dress styles by body shape, how do you find the best wedding dress that flatters you and makes you feel confident?

Understanding how to choose a wedding dress based on your body type is key to finding the perfect wedding gown. This guide will help you discover the best wedding dress styles for brides of all shapes and sizes — whether you’re looking for a wedding dress for your hourglass figure, a plus size bridal gown, or petite wedding dresses that elongate your frame.

Why Choosing a Wedding Dress for Your Body Type Matters

Every bride deserves a bridal gown that fits beautifully and highlights her best features. Knowing your body shape helps you narrow down styles and find a wedding dress silhouette that balances and flatters your figure. Whether you have a pear shape, apple shape, rectangle shape, or a plus size figure, there are wedding dresses that will enhance your natural curves and make you feel stunning.

Best Wedding Dress Styles by Body Shape

Hourglass Shape

If you have a well-defined waist with balanced bust and hips, you’re an hourglass figure. The best wedding dress styles for hourglass shapes include fit-and-flare, mermaid, and trumpet gowns. These styles hug your curves and highlight your waist beautifully. Structured bodices with waist detailing are perfect to show off your silhouette.

Pear Shape

For brides with narrow shoulders and wider hips, A-line and ballgown wedding dresses are flattering. These styles flow away from the hips to create a balanced look. Off-the-shoulder and strapless dresses are great to draw attention to your upper body.

Apple Shape

If you carry more weight in your midsection with slimmer hips, empire waist and A-line wedding dresses work wonderfully. V-necklines elongate the neckline and create a flattering vertical line. Avoid clingy fabrics around your tummy and look for gowns with supportive bodices.

Rectangle Shape

Brides with balanced bust and hips but little waist definition can enhance their curves with ballgown or A-line dresses. Dresses with belts or sashes help define the waist, while ruffles and layers add volume.

Petite Brides

Petite brides often look amazing in sheath and column dresses, which elongate the frame. Simple A-line gowns avoid overwhelming a smaller figure. Necklines like V-neck or scoop neck create the illusion of height.

Plus Size Brides

Plus size bridal gowns in A-line, ballgown, and wrap styles provide both comfort and a flattering shape. Dresses with supportive bodices and stretch fabrics offer structure and confidence.

Tips for Wedding Dress Shopping by Body Type

Trust your instincts: The perfect dress will feel right and comfortable.
Bring trusted opinions: Limit to 1–2 people whose style advice you value.
Consider your venue: Match your gown style to your wedding setting and formality.
Set a budget: Knowing your price range helps narrow your options.
Be open-minded: Try different wedding dress silhouettes — the perfect gown may surprise you!

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Perfect Wedding Dress

Understanding your body type is one of the best ways to find a wedding dress that highlights your natural beauty. Whether you’re searching for the perfect plus size bridal gown or petite wedding dresses that flatter your frame, there’s a wedding dress out there made just for you.

If you’re ready to start wedding dress shopping with expert guidance, Ohana Bridal is here to help you find the dress that will make your wedding day unforgettable. Book an appointment today to discover the bridal gown that perfectly fits your style and shape!