We come in many shapes and sizes, but when it comes to shopping for a wedding dress, dresses are usually directed towards thinner brides.  How does a curvier bride find a flattering dress that enhances her figure?  Use these tips for a happier shopping experience.

Choose the Right Style
There are flattering styles for all body styles.  If you’re a curvy woman with a pear-shaped body, stay away from this:

1. Empire Waist wedding gowns: These gowns head straight down — straight down to your hips, that is.  Stay away from A-line gowns.  They don’t flatter your curvy physique and emphasize your thighs.
2. Mermaid wedding gowns: These are a bit too snug on pear-shaped bodies.  It makes curvy bodies look bloated and out of shape.

For pear-shaped bodies, try a loose, simple gown.  It should have a nice, wide flair.  If you wear a sash, make sure it’s on your waistline so it flatters your unique curves.  Best wedding gown styles: Ball Gown, Princess or A-Line.

If you’re an apple-shaped woman, finding a flattering gown that doesn’t emphasize your midsection is tough.  Here’s what you should stay away from:

1. Mermaid wedding gowns: This draws attention to your midsection.  Avoid it if possible.
2. Sheath wedding gowns: Sheath gowns are a straight, long gown which flatter thinner, longer body types.  This is a bad choice for apple-shaped women – avoid it if you can.

An apple-shaped woman should try gowns that flare out significantly.  It minimizes the midsection and gives the illusion of pear-shaped curves, flattering the body.  Best wedding gown styles: Empire Waist, Ball Gown, A-Line or Princess.

Choose the Right Texture
Believe it or not, a gown’s texture makes the different between a beautiful, curvaceous bride and a frumpy, heavy bride.  For both body types choose lightly textured fabric.  Avoid beading if you can.  You want to keep the design minimalistic so that it adds depth, not distraction.

For ball wedding gowns, make sure the design isn’t a dark color.  Keep away from flowery textures and avoid top-heavy textures.

For A-Line or Princess wedding gowns, make sure the design is emphasized in the middle to flatter your figure.

Empire wedding gowns should have a light texture.  Make sure it’s simple but elegant.

Choose the Right Neckline
Choosing a bad neckline is very unflattering for your chest.  If you have a large chest, choose these necklines:

• Queen Anne
• Strapless
• Scoop
• Square
• Sweetheart

If you have a medium-sized chest, choose these necklines:

• V-Neck
• Spaghetti Straps
• Scoop
• Square
• Sabrina

If you have a small chest, choose these necklines:

• Jewel
• Bateau
• Sabrina
• Spaghetti Straps
• Strapless

Bring these tips with you when you shop for your gown to ensure a happy, easier experience.