Choosing your wedding dress can be a pretty emotionally charged and potentially stressful ordeal. 

With so many other things to think about - the seating plan, the cake, the favors - it’s a lot to organize!

But it's your special day, and you deserve to look and feel your absolute best. 

So, dear brides-to-be, let us take away some of your stress and help you find your dream dress for your dream wedding. 

Not only will we guide you through various dress silhouettes and body types, but we'll also equip you with pro tips to ensure that when you say 'I do,' you'll be doing it in a dress that's an absolute 'I do' too!

Understanding Different Dress Silhouettes

Their spellbinding allure often starts with the dress, but there’s so much more to it than just ‘long’ and ‘white’. 

Whether you're a classicist leaning towards a Ballgown or a free spirit contemplating an Empire Line, understanding the language of dress silhouettes is your passport to a 'Yes' moment. 

Get ready to find the dress that will rock your special day!

The Ballgown

Characterized by a voluminous skirt and a fitted top, the ballgown is the epitome of fairytale elegance. 

Swirling layers of tulle or satin cascade from a cinched waist, transforming you into a royal vision.

Best for: Brides with a romantic spirit who are looking for that Cinderella moment. Ideal for slim-hipped brides with a fuller bust.

Tip:While the ballgown is dramatic, avoid going overboard with embellishments. Too many frills could distract from your natural beauty, and you don't want to be swallowed by fabric.

The A-Line

The A-Line features a fitted bodice that gradually flares out from the waist, forming a gentle A-shape. 

It’s a versatile beauty, suitable for a garden soirée or a grand cathedral ceremony. 

Best for:Quite literally everyone! The A-line is universally flattering, making it a perfect choice for pear-shaped or curvy brides.

Tip:This style is great for creating a slimmer waistline, and it can also give petite brides the appearance of added height.

The Empire Line

This unique silhouette features a high waistline that sits just under the bust, and a skirt that flows gracefully to the ground. 

It offers a bohemian flair that’s light, airy, and supremely elegant.

Best for: Brides looking to accentuate their bust while gracefully concealing the 

waist and hips.

Tip:This style is wonderful for pregnant brides or anyone looking for a relaxed, comfortable fit.

The Column or Sheath

Ah, the Column or Sheath dress—imagine gliding down the aisle as if you’re walking on air. This silhouette is pure, unadulterated elegance.

Best for: Statuesque beauties of all heights who adore the allure of a blank canvas.

Tip: Want to add some curves to this sleek masterpiece? Cinch that waist with a glitzy sash or an embellished belt. 

It's like adding an exclamation mark to a well-crafted sentence!

The Mermaid

The Mermaid silhouette, ladies and gents, is the epitome of sultry sophistication, hugging you from the décolletage all the way to your knees before flaring into a magnificent fishtail.

Best for: The curvaceous goddesses out there, aiming to spotlight their hourglass magic.

Life Hack: Planning to bust a move? Remember, the Mermaid isn't as dance-floor-friendly as some other options. It's all sultry and no salsa!

The Trumpet 

If you think of the Trumpet as the Mermaid’s slightly less flamboyant sister, you're on the right track. It's still a showstopper but with just a touch less drama.

Best for: If you’ve got an hourglass figure or a slender frame and want the world to know it, this one’s for you.

Wardrobe Wisdom: Since the eye is inevitably drawn to the midriff with this style, some strategic shapewear can elevate your look from lovely to jaw-dropping.

The Slip Dress 

Minimalists meet your match—the Slip Dress. Picture clean lines framing your body in a manner that whispers, "Less is more."

Best for: The chic, modern bride who wants a look as timeless as her love story.

Tailoring Tip: With a silhouette, this snug, custom measurements aren't just advisable; they’re essential.

The Tea-Length Dress

Last but absolutely not least, let’s talk Tea-Length. 

Imagine an ankle-grazing hem adorned in delicate lace or ethereal tulle, a nod to vintage aesthetics.

Best for: Non-conformists who have killer shoes they can't wait to flaunt, and a playlist that demands to be danced to.

Footloose Factor: If your wedding involves cutting a rug or two, this hemline gives you ample freedom for twirls and leaps.

Choosing A Dress Based on Your Body Shape

You're an individual, a one-of-a-kind - and you deserve a dress as unique as you are.

You want a dress that accentuates your figure and makes you feel fabulous, right? 

Right! 

And that’s where we come in. 

We’ve put together this comprehensive guide, so you can find the perfect dress for your body shape. 

Ready to discover the silhouette that's just as exceptional as you are? Let’s go…

Hourglass

Best Choices: Mermaid or silhouette styles are your go-to. These designs will beautifully accentuate your naturally defined waist and balanced bust and hips. The curve-hugging fabric will help you flaunt what you've got.

Pear Shape

Best Choices:Think A-line or fishtail dresses. These styles are perfect for balancing out wider hips with a fitted top. The flare that starts at or below the hip will create an elegant, proportional look.

Triangle Shape

Best Choices:Opt for symmetrical or V-neck styles. These necklines work wonders in drawing the eyes upwards, balancing out broader shoulders. The overall effect will be a more proportional upper body.

Oval Shape (Apple)

Best Choices:Consider A-line or empire dresses. These styles naturally draw attention away from the midsection, helping to create a balanced silhouette. They're excellent at highlighting your bust and elongating your shape.

Rectangle Shape

Best Choices:Go for A-line, empire, or ball gowns. These styles will add definition to your waistline, breaking up the straight line of your figure and creating the illusion of curves. 

Need a Quick Lowdown on Wedding Dresses? Here’s Our Pro Tips

1. Comfort First: Ensure the dress is comfortable for prolonged wear.
2. Shapewear is Queen: A must-have for a perfectly seamless look. 
3. Be Open-Minded:Don't hesitate to try something new; you might surprise yourself!
4. Highlight Your Best Features:Pick a dress that accentuates the areas of your body you love the most. If you’ve got it, flaunt it!

Here ends our tour through the magical realm of wedding dresses! We hope this guide has made your wedding dress journey less stressful andmuch more fun.

Now go ahead, take that well-researched plunge and say "yes" to your dream dress! 

Cheers to your fabulous future!

In need of some dazzling bridal accessories? We got you! 

Check out our gorgeous collection of bracelets, necklaces and earrings for the icing on top of your wedding ensemble.

Peter Manka Jr. - Owner at Ben Garelick

Peter Manka Jr. is a passionate member of the family business who joined Ben Garelick in the early 2000s after working in product licensing for Sesame Workshop & The Jim Henson Company for many years. He obtained a degree in diamonds and jewelry from the prestigious Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in order to sharpen his jewelry skills. He takes great pride in providing exceptional customer service and helping clients find the perfect piece of jewelry.