Monday, May 2, 2011

"But this is my DREAM gown!" vs. "This is my body type?!?!"

You've always known what type of gown you want and that it's going to look just perfect on you right? You say to yourself "It's going to be BIG and POOFY!" or "It absolutely HAS to have a sweetheart neckline with a cathedral train!"  You go the bridal salon to try on your dream dress and you are astonished...it looks horrendous on you.  Well, there is a reason for that.  Sorry to say it but, just because the dress looks FAB on a model or a mannequin doesn't mean it will on you and it all has to do with your body type.  
Below are examples of different body types.  Now, go look in the mirror and seriously analyze your body (don't worry, ill be here when you get back)  Did you notice something?  You're beautiful! I said analyze, not scrutinize okay?  You're perfect just the way you are, and now is not the time to become self conscious..he did propose to you didn't he?
(Image courtesy of fashionfairpdx.com)
The models and mannequins that we see wearing those dresses that we love mostly have the body type of the inverted triangle image.  However, the average woman has the Triangle Shape: also known as the Pear Shaped Body.  If the images aren't working well with you, basically this means that the Triangle Shape is a woman with curvy hips and a round derrière!   Women with this body type should be looking to try on a dress with these features:  strapless, v-neck, embroidered bodice, gathered waist, and an  empress or an A line skirt.   All of theses don't have to be bundled up in one gown but it helps to have at least one.  Simply because it tends to draw attention away from the hips and makes you appear slimmer.
Inverted Triangle (most runway models have a shape like this):  You are described as having wide or broad shoulders.  Short tea party gowns, A line, and ball gowns look best on you.  
Rectangle Shape:  Your shoulders and waist have pretty much have the same width and there isn't much definition between the two.  Ball gown dresses with detailed skirts and accents at the waist will give you definition and shape .  A-line gowns with a corseted bodice and asymmetrical ruching will give you a waist, in addition to empire line dresses.

Hourglass Shape:  This one is pretty self explanatory.  You were blessed with boobs, butt and a small waist.  Basically, you have a pretty curvy figure.  An A-line gown will show off your figure well.  However,  if you REALLY want to show off your girlish figure go for a mermaid gown and if your daring...get a sweetheart neckline!

Diamond Shape: This one is opposite of the hourglass shape and your waist is wider that your shoulders and hips.  Empire gowns, A-line dresses with a sash around the waist, and accents like ruching, or perhaps a jeweled bodice will flatter you best.

Rounded Shape:  You have a beautiful full figure and v-necklines will make your curves like pretty.  A-line gowns or empire waist gowns, with an embroidered bust line will look best for your shape.

I hope this was helpful and saves you some grief and aggravation...Happy shopping!