When I’m designing my bridal collection, the first step is to decide what silhouette I am going to use for each piece. This should be every brides first step when she is choosing her wedding dress, or any dress, for that matter. When I design, I want to create exquisite pieces that will make every woman look and feel absolutely beautiful.

Part of achieving this is choosing the right dress for your body. In order to do that, you must first understand what the basic dress silhouettes are.

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A-Line

Fitted at the hip and flares at hem.

Empire

A high waist that begins right under the bust.

Sheath

Clean and straight style following the lines of the body.

Mermaid

Hugs the body and then flares at the knee.

Trumpet

An understated version of the mermaid, it flares mid thigh instead.

Ball Gown

The classic wedding gown, with a fitted bodice and full skirt beginning at the high waist or low hip.

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Dressing for your body is all about achieving balance and visually creating the appropriate proportions. Here are some suggestions to follow to make your body look fantastic in your gown (bonus: its a lot easier than having to diet or go to the gym!)

Bootylicious

If you have significant… assets, for your wedding gown, you might want to choose an A Line or Empire silhouette. This will emphasize the smallest part of your body and then fall loosely on the bottom. Create volume and draw attention upwards with embellishments.

Petite

Elongate your silhoutte with clean lines, and keep it as simple as possible. A sheath style will help to give the illusion of length and extends the silhouette of your shape. Avoid being swallowed up in a ball-gown or one with too much volume and details. You don’t want Prince Charming having a hard time finding you under too many lacy ruffles.

Athletic

Soften your athletic body for a more romantic look by visually adding dimension.  Create the illusion of a narrow waistline by using belted styles, or play with proportions using with a low V-Neck or scoop neck to enhance your goddess figure.

Curvy

Emphasize your womanly proportions with a body-hugging mermaid or trumpet style that cinches the waist and  then flares towards the bottom.This feminine silhouette does what every woman dreams of: hugs and caresses your curves in all the right places.