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Your Guide to Bridal Gown Silhouettes

Bridal dress silhouettes are one of the most important aspects of a wedding dress. They play an essential role in the overall appearance and look of your wedding gown, as well as how it fits on your body.


There are several different types of bridal silhouettes to choose from, including ball gowns, mermaid, a-line dresses, sheaths, trumpet styles, and fit-and-flare designs. Each silhouette style has its own unique characteristics that can work well for certain body shapes and certain tastes.


The ball gown is perhaps the most widely recognized silhouette type, featuring a fitted bodice with a full skirt. It is commonly seen at more traditional weddings and looks best on pear-shaped or hourglass-shaped bodies.



The mermaid silhouette is a close fit through the hips and thighs, which flares out at the knees into a full skirt. This silhouette looks good on women with hourglass figures or those who are apple-shaped. It can also be flattering for curvier brides, as it helps to subtly minimize areas that they may not want highlighted, such as their waist or hips.


An a-line dress has been traditionally regarded as being a flattering style for most body types. The bodice of an a-line dress flows seamlessly over the hips down into a gradually flared skirt. This silhouette is ideal for petite women, as it can create the illusion of height and elongate the body. It is also a good choice for apple-shaped women, as it will help flatter the appearance of their midsection.


The sheath dress is another popular silhouette that can look great on many different body types. This form-fitting style hugs the curves of your body and then flows down into a straight or slightly flared skirt. It's a flattering choice for those with hourglass figures or pear-shaped bodies, as it helps to highlight their natural curves. It can also be a good option for petite women, as it won't overwhelm their smaller frame.


The trumpet silhouette is similar to the mermaid in that it is form-fitting throughout the hips and thighs, but does not flare out at the knees. Instead, this look narrows at the knees into a flared skirt. Women with pear-shaped or hourglass figures will usually be able to carry off this silhouette well.


Finally, fit-and-flare styles are also worth considering if you're looking for a fun and flirty design. This silhouette features a fitted bodice that flows into an a-line skirt with a flared hemline—often through ruffles or layers of fabric—that adds interesting dimensions to your overall appearance. It's often seen on petite brides as well as those who are apple-shaped or hourglass shaped since it can help to minimize the appearance of their midsection.

So, there you have it! These are just some of the most popular bridal dress silhouettes that you may come across when shopping for your wedding gown. Ultimately, the best silhouette for you is the one that makes you feel most confident, beautiful, and comfortable on your big day!


Are you ready to find your #dreamdress? Shop the world of bridal courture right here in Orlando, Florida at The Collection Bridal! Book your appointment now or stop by our shop on Park Avenue in Winter Park, Florida!

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