Wedding Attire- Finding the Perfect Gown

Before you begin you search, think about the following three things:

Consider your personal style, because you want to look like you, and choose a gown that will actually look good on you. If you are a minimalist, don't go overboard with an extravagant dress and lots of makeup. If you are a lot bigger on top, you might not want to go with a strapless dress.

Consider where you are getting married. If its on the beach, in a church, at city hall, or in a barn, each location has a different atmosphere and you will need to change your dress accordingly.

Last, remember your budget and how much you are willing to spend on a dress you wear this one day. Don't waste your time trying on dresses that are way out of your price range.

Gowns by Body Type:

For the Petite Bride: You want to keep it simple with the details, or else it may seem like your drowning. If you are petite and short, keep the waist high in order to appear longer.

For the Pear Shaped Bride: Pick a dress that flows out and away from your hips. Details above the waist will attract eyes upward to where you want them.

For the Apple Shaped Bride: Choose a dress that has an empire waist. This will accentuate the smallest part of you, and then flow outward and away from you middle, disguising it.

For the Plus-size Bride: You should look for silhouettes that are flowing. Dresses that flow over the hips and do not gather too much around the waist will be the most flattering on you.

For the Full Busted Bride: You want to show your decolletage without showing too much and busting out. You need you gown to have good support.

For the Small Chested Bride: Interesting details like beading and ruching help create the illusion of curves.
For the Straight Line Bride: Mermaid style dresses and gowns with lots of ruffles will make you appear more curvy than you actually are. Also, dresses with a very defined waist can give you a more hourglass shape.
(All images can be found on Real Simple Weddings)