Style – Finding the Frock to Suit Your Shape
Skirt Shapes
There are two classic skirt shapes that you will find in wedding frocks.
- Straighter shapes
- Waisted shapes will fuller skirts
- Straighter shapes work best for straighter body shapes and those who don’t have a defined waist such as H shape and O shape, and I shape (who can go both ways) and 8 shapes that need a straighter skirt style. Empire waistlines can work for many – though read my tips here.
- Fuller skirts are great for those with defined waists and fuller hips/bottoms or have saddlebags such as X shapes and A shapes, and 8 shapes can look for styles with peplums which flatter.
Necklines
Then choosing a neckline on your dress there are commonly:
- Strapless
- Asymmetrical
- Scoop and V neck
- Sweetheart
- Halterneck
Strapless shapes create a horizontal across your upper body, so are good to balance wider hips/thighs
Asymmetrical shapes are great if you have any asymmetry in your face or body, or if you love them!
Scoop and V necklines should replicate the shape of your jaw. If you have a more pointed V shaped chin/jaw area, then a V neckline will be flattering. If you have an oval or softer jawline, then a scoop neckline is lovely.
Sweetheart – these are better for a more angled jaw than one that is too soft or curved.
Halterneck – there are two types of halterneck, one that is a narrow V, the other that is high and curved. Work the style that relates to your jawline and they are ideal for those with a naturally squarer shoulder line.
Not sure of your body shape? Then why not do my body shape calculator quiz here or get my professional opinion as part of 7 Steps to Style.
Your dress is lovely, the fabric I would have bought too, even without a clue what I was going to do with it. May I borrow it for my wedding? 😉
On the color of white, why don’t you use the color of your teeth?
Teeth colour isn’t related to natural skin pigments whilst eye colour is related to our natural undertones.
Hi Imogen, I’m more a reader than a poster BUT I just had to pop in and say congratulations. You look lovely and happy (both of you). Best wishes for you. Donna
Your wedding dress was just so beautiful.
Thanks Lisa!
Your dress is beautiful. Congratulations on your wedding!
Your dress is beautiful, you have inspired me to sew a dress with butterflies for my little daughter. I hope you do not mind, it will look different, your fabric is uncomparable! Sincere congratulations!
Wow that really is beautiful material. What a beautiful dress, you look stunning
Laurie x
Thanks – when I saw the fabric I had to buy it – even though I had no idea what I was going to do with it! Lucky I had to get married.
I just don’t know how I’ll ever be able to pick a wedding dress, there are so many amazing options out there I feel like I really would just want to try everything on! These are some really great tips to stay on top of the purpose! Thanks so much for sharing!
Under the photo of the dress styles 8 shape is under straighter styles but in the description it’s under fuller styles so I’m slightly confused as to which one would be the better choice.
Sorry Gillian – poorly worded – 8 Shapes need straighter skirts, but can wear curvy details like peplums – I’ve just updated the blog post – so hopefully it makes more sense.