As is well known, bridesmaids vary in sizes as not all girls have the same body shape and type. Therefore, the bridesmaid dress selection can be considered a challenging task if you do not plan properly. However, it is possible to look for the correct bridesmaid dresses for all the ladies in your entourage with careful thinking and bearing in mind that not all girls have the exact figure. And to help you, here are five common body types of women and what type of dresses suit each body type.
Understanding Different Body Types
First, before directly addressing the question of selecting bridesmaid dresses, knowing what body types exist and which styles are appropriate for each type is necessary. Here are some common body types and their defining features:
- Hourglass: Characterized by a well-defined waist and balanced proportions between the bust and hips.
- Apple: Generally has a fuller bust and midsection with narrower hips and legs.
- Pear: Features wider hips and thighs with a smaller bust and shoulders.
- Rectangle: Typically has balanced proportions but lacks a well-defined waist.
- Inverted Triangle: Broad shoulders and bust with narrower hips.
Hourglass Body Type
When choosing the outfits for the bridesmaid with an hourglass figure, the aim should be to enhance the curves but, at the same time, ensure that they do not overwhelm the rest of the bridal attire. Blouses that fit at the waist and dresses that can be brought in at the waist look best. A-line and wrap dresses are suitable since they can define the waist without needing a belt or extra volume around the hips. Sweetheart or V-necklines can also enhance the hourglass shape by focusing on the neckline and the shoulder area.
Apple Body Type
Women with an apple body type should wear dresses that make them look like they have a well-formed waist and enhance the size of the bust. Empire-style dresses, fitted beneath the bust and flared out from that point down, are especially beneficial as they minimize the stomach area. There also are A-line dresses that clothe the belly and hips just softly. Trapeze sleeves, V-necklines, and dresses with plunging necklines exemplify how the upper body can be balanced with an elongated torso.
Pear Body Type
In the case of pear-shaped bridesmaids, the upper part of the body should be proportioned with the lower part, and the waist should emphasize the figure. Blouses that are form-fitting on the upper part of the body but loose on the bottom, dresses with ruffles on the shoulders and bust, off-the-shoulder styles, or embellished bodices are recommended.
A-line and fit-and-flare dresses are perfect as they accentuate the waist and allow easy movement while offering space for the hips. Don’t wear tight-fitting dresses, particularly ones that hug the hips, as this will further emphasize the lower body.
Rectangle Body Type
According to the figure type, bridesmaids with rectangle-shaped bodies should consider those dresses that make them look curvy and have a defined waist. Husky dresses that fit at the waist and have a belt, ruching, or gathering can help. A-line and fit-and-flare styles are suitable as these styles enhance the hips, making the woman’s figure resemble that of an hourglass. Other styles, such as sweetheart and scoop necklines, can also improve the figure’s softness. Steer away from straight-cut or shapeless dresses, as these give the body a more boxy look.
Inverted Triangle Body Type
For bridesmaids with an inverted triangle body type, the focus should be equal widths of shoulders, busts, and narrow hips. By that, I do not mean that dresses that make you appear slimmer are the best but opt for designs that make people look downward, like full-skirted dresses and A-line dresses, among others, are ideal. Halter necklines, v-necks, and spaghetti straps are alternative styles that may also assist in diminishing the width of the shoulders. Do not wear dresses with sequences or any decorations on the upper part of the dress since this will make the area seem more expansive.
Bonus Tips for Choosing Bridesmaid Dresses
As much as bridesmaids need to consider their body shapes when selecting their dresses, there are specific guidelines that any bride should keep in mind. To begin with, it is crucial to think about the comfort of your bridesmaids and the level of confidence they will be able to inspire. Ensure that the selected dresses are comfortable enough to allow the bridesmaids to move comfortably, and ensure that every bridesmaid feels beautiful in her dress.
The color and theme of the wedding should also be considered, especially when choosing the fabrics. Choose dresses that are aligned with the theme of the wedding including the colors. If the color has not been finalized, choose a universal color that fits the skin tones of all your bridesmaids, so that the overall look is cohesive.
Do also focus on the fabric, which is also vital when choosing dresses for them. Satin, and chiffon fabrics are lightweight and thus close to the skin; they are excellent and comfortable for all figures but it can be quite costly as compared to other fabrics. However, if you decide to splurge a little, be sure to take as many photos as possible as these fabrics look awesome in photos.
Fit and Comfort is Key
Finding the right bridesmaid dress for every size is difficult, but it can be simple if planned well. Knowing the various body shapes is essential to knowing what style suits everybody, as this will make your bridal party look elegant and well-matched.
To remind you, the primary concern when selecting bridesmaids’ dresses is that everyone should feel comfortable and look beautiful in the chosen dresses. It is essential to consider the needs and preferences of each bridesmaid and groom attendant so that they can contribute to making your big day more glamorous and fulfilling.
