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Your Guide to Wedding Dress Silhouettes



A bride's gown is arguably one of the most important components of her wedding day. It highlights the beauty and elegance of the bride while complementing the overall theme and style of the wedding. With so many different bridal gown silhouettes to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here's a breakdown of the most popular bridal gown silhouettes to help you determine which one is right for you!


A-Line Bridal Gown: This classic silhouette features a fitted bodice that gradually flares out from the waist to the hem, creating an A-shape. A-line dresses look great on all body types and are perfect for brides who want a timeless and elegant look.



Ball Gown Wedding Dress: The ball gown silhouette features a fitted bodice and a full skirt that flares out from the waist. This style is perfect for brides who want a dramatic and glamorous look.



Sheath Wedding Dress: The sheath silhouette is form-fitting from the bodice to the hem and hugs the curves of the body. This style is perfect for brides who want a sleek and modern look.



Mermaid Bridal Gown: The mermaid silhouette is fitted through the bodice and hips, then flares out at the knee. This style is perfect for brides who want to show off their curves and make a bold statement.



Trumpet Wedding Dress: Often confused with the mermaid silhouette, there are subtle differences between the mermaid and trumpet silhouettes. While the mermaid shape has more volume and is more fitted though the hips, the trumpet silhouette is a more toned-down version. The trumpet wedding dress silhouette is straight from the bodice to the hips then gives way to a gradual flare starting at mid-thigh. Create or enhance your curves while still enjoying the freedom to dance the night away.


Fit-and-Flare: 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.




Empire Wedding Dress:The empire silhouette features a high waistline that sits just below the bust and a skirt that flares out from there. This style is perfect for brides who want a romantic and flowy look. No matter which bridal gown silhouette you choose, it's important to try on a variety of styles to find the perfect one for your body type and personal style. Remember, the most important thing is to feel confident and beautiful on your wedding day.


With so many Orlando wedding dress options, how do you choose?


There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing your Orlando bridal gown, like the neckline, sleeve style, style, and material. However, the silhouette is also a great starting point to choosing your dress. It’s also important to consider how a wedding dress fits your body, what it accentuates, and the style and statement it makes.



Here are a few additional tips to consider when choosing your bridal gown silhouette from an Orlando bridal shop:

  • Reflect on your overall wedding gown fashion vibe: boho, elegant, trendy, timeless, princess-like, flowy, form-fitting, high fashion, sleek, what is your dream wedding look?

  • Consider what features you want to accentuate.

  • Understand the basics about wedding dress silhouettes but be open-minded to trying on different styles of bridal gowns!

  • Get the insight, help, and support of an expert Orlando bridal stylist. This goes beyond just choosing your dream wedding dress — our stylists can help you down to every last accessory, from veil to headpiece, earrings to shoes, and everything in between!

Ready to find your dream wedding dress? Shop the world of bridal couture 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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