Photo by Kimberly Harrell Photography
Here Comes The Bride, All dressed in…..a stunning, goosebump-inducing wedding dress!
You deserve to find a dress that you absolutely love. Sure, your hair, makeup, jewelry, and sparkly shoes (give me all the sparkly shoes) all play a role in your wedding but let’s be real, your dress will get a lot of attention on the wedding day.
So what’s the first step in looking and feeling like a bride? It is to find the dress of your dreams!
You know that dress, the dress that makes you feel like you are going to gracefully float down the aisle come wedding day, let’s find you that wedding dress.
Today we are sharing some gorgeous dresses worn by beautiful real brides.
So whether you are a modern, contemporary, casual alternative bride, trying to decide which dress to fall in love with, meet your potential match below!
Get The love note.
No spam, only notifications about new blog posts, updates you will love.
The Dress Timeline
Before you absolutely fall in love with one of the dresses below, let’s make sure we are on the same page about ordering your wedding dress.
If you, like most brides, are planning to order a dress from a bridal boutique, then you should begin shopping as soon as you get engaged. It may take 6-12 months for your dress to be aisle ready.
If you are having a short engagement, you can still rush-order your dress. However, there may be a rush charge applied to the order.
How soon should you go wedding dress shopping?
- 12 months ahead – Start shopping for your dress
- 6-9 months ahead – Order and buy your dress
- 3 months ahead – First fitting
- 1 month ahead – Second fitting
- 1 week ahead – Final fitting
What are the different wedding dress styles silhouettes?
There are 7 types of wedding dress styles: A-line dress, Ball gown dress, Mermaid-Trumpet dress, Empire dress, Sheath-Column dress, Jumpsuit, Separates.
The Wedding Dress Silhouettes You Need To Know
Photo by Jennifer Monaghan Photography
Photos by Elizabeth Couch Photography
Photos by Cortnie Dee Photography
Photos by Heirloom Rose Photography
A-Line
This classic ‘50s’ dress silhouette is flatteringly fitted through the smallest part of your natural waist and softly flared out gradually to an ‘A’ shape.
It’s great for camouflaging hips and balancing wide shoulders. It is a great style for any bride who wants a full skirt without the drama of a ball gown.
Photos by Elizabeth Couch Photography
Photos by Gaby Pineda Photography
Photo by Kimberly Harrell Photography
Photos by Nhan Nguyen Photography
Photos by Jesica Clay Photography
Ball Gown
A long time favorite fairy tale princess dress, this gown features a very full skirt and a fitted waist that seems to float down the aisle.
It is ideal for most body types as it is excellent for hiding problem areas in the hips and thighs. You will make a grand entrance in this dress.
Photos by Elizabeth Couch Photography
Photos by Sabel Moments Photography
Photos by Nhan Nguyen Photography
Photo by Jesica Clay Photography
Empire
Introduced after the french revolution, this gown’s silhouette is still popular today. With a high waistline that sits just below the bustline, this dress creates a long line that makes you look taller.
This makes it a great style for petite brides. The skirt of the dress can be A-line, slightly flared or just straight.
Photos by Jennifer Monaghan Photography
Photo by Jennifer Monaghan Photography
Photos by Michelle Lippert Photography
Mermaid/Trumpet
Got Curves? Show them off! The glamorous mermaid and trumpet silhouettes, also known as a fit-and-flare, hug the bust, waist, and hips.
The mermaid flares out into a fuller skirt at the knees or below the knee while the trumpet flares out at the fingertip in a trumpet shape.
Both the trumpet and mermaid dress should fit snugly in the hips and thighs while being comfortable enough to sit in, so please take a seat during your fittings.
Photos by Cortnie Dee Photography
Photos by Heirloom Rose Photography
Photos by Sarah Tribett Photography
Photo by Kimberly Harrell Photography
Photo by Jesica Clay Photography
Photos by Sabel Moments Photography
Photos by Sarah Tribett Photography
Sheath/Column
Made popular in the 1950’s by Marilyn Monroe, this slim close-fitting silhouette does not flare out. It hugs your body like the sheath of a sword (hence the name).
The dress has no voluminous skirt making it a great way to show off your figure.
It is a great style for brides who are larger on the top than on the bottom.
Photos by Heirloom Rose Photography
Photos by Monika Normand Photography
Jumpsuit
Put your party pants on! This one piece modern and fun silhouette is comfortable with the bottom consisting of either pants or shorts.
This style will not only impress during the ceremony with the same drama as a ballgown but also allow you to party on the dance floor in style.
It is a great style for brides of all shapes and sizes.
Photos by Iris van Nes Photography
Separates
A twist on the traditional wedding gown! This two-piece set allows you to mix and match a top and skirt to find a combination that fits your own personality.
This silhouette is versatile and can take you from the traditional look for your ceremony to the more fun ‘hit the dance floor’ look for your reception.
It’s a great style for brides who want to switch things up for a second or third look.
Photos by Sabel Moments Photography
Final Thoughts
Remember you should absolutely love your dress. Your wedding dress should reflect your personality and make your beauty beam.
Stay true to your personality and style and you will choose a dress that will make you the definition of a beautiful bride.
What style is your wedding dress? Are you showing off your shape in a mermaid or trumpet dress? Or do you love the drama of a ballgown? Are you into the simple sophistication of a sheath dress?
Share your style with me, I would love to know. Send me a DM on Instagram @tandlcoordination and don’t forget to follow our IG account as we share even more wedding pictures and tips from wonderful wedding vendors. I can’t wait to hear from you!
Photographers
