Most woman fall into one of four categories when determining body type. When it comes to things like this, I generally say forget the rules and go with what you love... In the case of finding your wedding gown, you want to wear the most perfect shape for your body... most likely these “ideal” gowns will be close to the shape you should be looking for in your own gown. I mean, if you have Kristen Stewart’s straight boy or rectangle shape you aren’t going to fill out the same styles as Scarlett Johansson and her super curvy hourglass figure. Each shape has it’s advantages and disadvantages, but it’s all about feeling and looking your best. Here are my ideal gowns for your body type.

Apple. (or inverted triangle) For bust/shoulder heavy girls we want to do our best to elongate the top of you and help balance out your smaller bottom half. Think inch wide straps that fall into a v-neck. This shape elongates your torso and will also de-emphasize your shoulders. Stay away from halters/strapless which can both draw attention to your broadness. To balance the bottom steer clear of slim skirts and opt for something with at least an A-line shape. And as I will say for every body type any detail to show off your natural waist is a must. It’s the universal truth for all body types. Show off your smallest part. (Gown shown is Reem Acra)

Pear. (or triangle) For girls with a booty(that’s me) we are basically doing the exact opposite of the apple shaped ladies. We are looking to take the emphasis off of the big hips and balance the smaller bust and narrow shoulders. Adding a nice off of the shoulder strap gives the illusion of broader shoulders, while the detailing around the bust helps the ladies look more full. The skirt should also be at least an A-line if not fuller... Now this is not necessary if you are a fan of showing off your... assets then you can do a slimmer skirt, just remember to balance the top with a detailed neckline or a sleeve of sorts. Now this also works if you are a fan of strapless wearing a fuller skirt will hide your badonkadonk while showing off your slim upper body. And once again, draw attention to that waist!!! It’s is ALWAYS going to be the most flattering detail for any body type. (Dress shown is BHLDN)

Boy. (or rectangle) Boo hoo. You’re super model shaped. Darn you Cameron Diaz. The biggest thing to remember about boy shapes is to ADD VOLUME. We want to give you the curves the good Lord did not. So frilly details, ruching, etc near the bust line is a must! And since we are creating curves emphasizing your little waist is absolutely the most important thing, if you want to fake an hour glass you must have some detail showing off your natural waist. A sash is a great way to do that... if you are really bold, doing it in a dark color... say an olive green or navy velvet will really help cinch your waist. Now, I debated on what type of skirt I would do... the safe bet is to use a skirt with volume, but with boy types the right fabric will take you a long way. A nice thick silk faille will help outline your shape without clinging to you. (Dress shown is Reverie)

Hourglass. Once again, I don’t feel sorry for woman with giant boobs, a tiny waist, and perfectly proportioned hips... there is a word that I am thinking of... definitely not appropriate for this classy wedding blog. These ladies can pretty much wear any shapes... you have to be careful when you have an ample bosom because there are some necklines that can end up looking trashy on a fuller bust. So full coverage is definitely a good thing. But I am all about showing off that bombshell figure. So I love a fit -n- flare for this shape. A strapless gown with delicate ruching details will help slim and balance your bottom and de-emphasize your large ladies while the sparkly detailed belt shows off your lil’ waist. The detailing at the bottom gives a touch of fun.

(Dress shown is Rivini)

The 411

*apple. full skirt to balance and deep v necklines to elongate

*pear. full skirt is a must and off the shoulder sleeves will add balance.

*boy. add curves, volume at the bust and in the skirt.

*hourglass. use details like ruching to de-emphasize bust while smoothing shape.

*for ALL. cinching your waist is a must for ALL body types. JUST DO IT.

Lauren