Wedding dress shopping can seem overwhelming but once you understand the styles and terminology you will be a bridal pro and this will be a breeze for you.
Here’s a quick and easy guide to a variety of silhouettes and necklines you may like to consider.
Silhouettes:
Ballgown
The true princess dress! If you are looking for a fairytale gown, straight from a Disney movie then this may be the style for you. The ballgown has a fitted bodice and a full skirt. Ideal for most body types but bear in mind that they can be overwhelming on petite brides with very small frames.
Check out our Andrews, Blair and Wallis gowns.
A Line
This style is a popular choice for brides, offering a softer shape than a ballgown. A Lines have fitted bodices through the waist and cascade out towards the ground, resembling the outline of an uppercase "A." Ideal for all body types.
Check out our Knight, Mirren and Dunaway gowns.
Fit and Flare
This style is thankfully quite self explanatory, it is literally "fit and flare:" Fitted through the body and flaring out mid thigh, this silhouette is between an a line and a mermaid style. Ideal for brides looking to accentuate a small waist and wanting to show off their figure in a subtle way. Perfect for hourglass figures and petite brides.
Check out our Milford, Garland and Kelly gowns.
Mermaid
Sleek and sexy. Fitted on the body from the chest to the knee, then flares out close to the knee. Ideal for brides looking to show off their curves.
Check out our Crawford, Astor and Jolie gowns.
Sheath / Column
A narrow shape that flows straight down from the neckline to the hem. Ideal for lean frames and athletic body types. Often the perfect choice for a destination wedding.
Check out our Kidman and Sarandon gowns.
Popular Necklines:
I am sure that most necklines are very familiar to you, like plunge, v neckline or off the shoulder but you may not be aware of a sweetheart, illusion or bateau neckline. Find out more about these styles below.
Sweetheart
The sweetheart neckline resembles the top of a heart, accentuating the décolletage and giving you a longer and leaner appearance. This is a classic and romantic neckline choice, popular with many brides. If you love the style but have a larger bust or are looking for a bit more modesty, opt for the semi-sweetheart, which falls a bit higher up on the chest.
Check out our Kelly, Fonda and Wallis gowns.
Illusion
Soft sheer fabric (such as tulle or lace) extends from the top of the bodice to the base of the neck or over the shoulders to give the illusion of a strapless, deep plunge or a delicately strapped gown. Usually paired with lace appliqués sewn on top, that appear to be floating over the skin, this dreamy neckline is the ideal mixture of modern elegance and timeless romance.
Check out our Coleman, Taylor and Bancroft gowns.
Bateau
Made famous by Audrey Hepburn and more recently Meghan Markle, this vintage neckline has officially made a comeback. The wide, high shape grazes the collarbones to show a bit of skin and is often accompanied by sleeves that offer plenty of support and coverage.
Check out our Dunaway, Cher and Sarandon gowns.
If you need any help choosing the right dress, please feel free to contact our support team they will be more than happy to help you.
Love,
Rose & Taylor – Making fantasy a reality.
Xx