Bridal dress shopping can be quite the dilemma; the abundance of options to choose from makes it a rather exhaustive experience. The most confusing part can actually be deciding what type of dress to wear. Of course dresses range in design and shape but there are actually specific names for the different dress styles. These names help classify them for bridal boutiques and designers but can sound like hodgepodge to the average buyer. Fear not! This is where OH BRIDES comes in to school you on all the different silhouettes and what could work best for you.
Silhouettes
Fit and Flare/Trumpet– this silhouette is fitted throughout the bodice and flares out at mid-thigh.
Ballroom/Princess– this dress is fits snug throughout the chest/tummy area but flares out into a full skirt at the waistline. Think Cinderella
Tea-length– Normal bodice with hemline that falls between the knee and ankle. Think 1950s poodle skirt.
Mini– Hemline falls above the knee.
Modified A-line– this style fits snug throughout the bodice and hip area yet flares toward the hemline forming an “A” shape; providing a much narrower fit than the traditional A line.
A-Line-tailor made bodice with a skirt that flows to the ground a little bit after the waistline forming an “A” shape.
Mermaid– fitted from chest to thigh area with a skirt that flows outward after the knee.
Sheath– tapered from chest area to the hemline providing a narrow silhouette.
Empire-waist-high waist design with fabric overlay under the breast area that hugs midsection.
Necklines
Sweetheart– heart shaped neckline that emphasizes cleavage
Halter/high-neck– single strap that wraps around the nape of the neck either creating a v neck shape revealing cleavage or covers up the chest area entirely