DRESS TO FLATTER YOUR FIGURE

Posted on 02. Feb, 2010 by Homes Etc in Advice, Articles, Fashion

Wedding dress designer, Natalie Gladman of www.madelineisaacjames.com offers some expert advice on what type of dresses and accessories flatter the following bodyshapes:

Great cleavage: For brides that have great cleavage and are not afraid to show it off, there are a number of options that will help create a spectacular silhouette. Gowns with a deep V-neckline work well, or a dress with a sweetheart neckline with a princess line skirt will help balance the figure and create curves in all the right places.

Toned arms/upper body: Brides with toned arms/upper body can wear so many different styles but I would suggest that if they have great arms they should definitely show them off! A strapless gown with a straight neckline works well, or alternatively if the bride is looking for a fuller skirt, a style with a ruched bodice and halterneck straps draws the eye up to the upper body.

Washboard tummy: Brides with washboard tummies really can choose from a huge selection of gown styles, however, to really show off that enviable washboard tummy, a gown finished in slinky silk charmeuse or silk satin that skims the body beautifully looks fabulous. A column dress works well with this shape – both with brides that are tall as well as petite brides as it gives the illusion of elongating the body.

Sexy back: It goes without saying that those brides blessed with a sexy back should definitely consider wearing a low-backed gown that shows it off! A gown with a sexy and glamorous low back works well for these brides and the detail of the bodice and buttons at the back add interest and texture to complement this look.

Amazing pins: Girls with amazing pins are well catered for in 2010 collections as shorter length gowns are bang on trend for 2010. Stunning legs with equally stunning shoes and a shorter length dress that shows off those legs are perfect for these brides. If brides are not comfortable wearing a dress above the knee, a 50’s style tea-length dress is a great choice.

Tall bride: Tall brides can wear a number of different styles dependant on body shape, but we believe the tall, slim bride looks fantastic in a column line gown with the wow factor! Gowns with simple lines and exquisite detailing create understated but elegant old Hollywood glamour.

Petite bride: An empire line dress is a great style for petite brides as the dress starts below the bust line and elongates the body to give the illusion of height. Combining this with pretty detailing in the fabric works well – lace is an ideal choice as it adds a pretty detail and texture to the look.

Gorgeous bum: Gorgeous bums work well in dresses that hug the figure and really show off those enviable curves. A glamorous long fishtail gown is perfect for these brides, with its curvaceous silhouette and cut that really creates an hourglass figure. The long fishtail shape is very fitted around the bodice, hips and bum, flowing out from mid-thigh length to balance the figure without detracting from those gorgeous curves.

Mother of the Bride Top Tips

1. Wear something you feel most comfortable in, i.e. a dress or a two-piece in floaty fabrics to keep you cool in hot weather.

2. All over beaded silk tops and soft floaty skirts will take you from the day reception to the evening.

3. Dresses with a bolero still look smart and also fashionable, alternatively, try a beaded dress with a shawl.

4. As mother of the bride you may be the only person to get away with wearing white, but not top to toe. A white or ivory jacket teamed with a black skirt and coordinating accessories will look great, but ensure you have a good balance of colours. Alternatively, a black and white print would be a softer option.

5. For the fuller figure choose more structured pieces than flimsy fabrics, and more conservative prints rather than bold garish prints. A feather fascinator will lift your outfit and bring focus to the face rather than drown you in a hat, as will pretty earrings and a necklace.

6. Don’t wear a black hat – ensure it has a good colour balance.

7. If you don’t want to wear a hat but want to look stylish, wear a fascinator in your hair.

8. Finish the outfit with matching bag and shoes to complete the look. It is a good idea to colour match accessories but if you don’t want to match your bag, opt for a pretty feminine beaded bag which you will use afterwards.

9. Keep handbag items to a minimum! Keep items as small as possible, i.e. a travel sewing kit and compact make up. Choose a structured clutch bag matching your outfit and ensure it has a detachable strap so it can go over your shoulder when taking those photos and holding your champagne.

10. For a Summer wedding, don’t forget you can choose a shorter bolero jacket which will keep you cool whilst maintaining a chic formal look. Jacques Vert, www.jacques-vert.co.uk.