A Quick Guide to Shapes & Styles

You’ve found the love of your life! Now it’s time to pick the dress of your dreams!

With so many different wedding gown styles, types and shapes, we’re giving you a quick guide to dress styles. From flowy to fitted, which style fits you?

Ball Gown. Ball Gown dresses are classic. Sometimes called the “princess” dress, ball gowns can come in different shapes and colors, but they are best categorized by having a full skirt and fitted bodice. This style is universally loved on most body types, and lets you dance and move about more freely than other styles. 

A Line. A line dresses resemble the letter “A”. Similar to a ball gown, they have a fitted bodice, but the skirt tends to be more flowy or long. A line dresses are popular because they look good on almost every body type. 

Fit-and-Flare. Fit-and-flare is in between the A line and Mermaid styles. With a fitted bodice and flowy skirt, the difference lies in the length at which the “flare”starts. This style flares out about mid-thigh. This style accentuates a small waist and highlights natural curves.

Mermaid. Mermaid gowns got the name because they resemble mermaids - fitted up top and flowy on the bottom. This style is chic and sexy. It is usually fitted from the bust to the knee, then flares out closer to your feet. 

Sheath/Column. A sheath or column dress is fitted all the way down. Contrary to how it may sound, this style doesn’t have to be tight or restricting. The dress is narrow and falls down your body naturally, so it accentuates your beautiful body. There is enough room at the bottom to walk about freely, but if you’re a big reception dancer, you might prefer a dress that lets you move a little more. 

Photo from NM Wedding Expos and Matt Blasing Photography.