#2 Your Ultimate Guide to Wedding Dress Silhouettes
(Because yes, there’s more than just “pretty” and “prettier”!)
Ready to dive into the world of wedding dress styles?
Whether you dream of floating down the aisle in a sleek gown or making a grand entrance in a princess-worthy gown, understanding different dress silhouettes is the first step to finding “The One.”
Different Styles of Silhouettes
Ball Gown
Picture yourself having your central character moment. A ball gown is your match made in heaven.
This iconic silhouette features a fitted bodice that explodes into a complete, dramatic skirt (think Cinderella vibes, but make it bridal).
The structured top creates a fantastic hourglass shape, while the voluminous skirt hides everything below the waist, perfect for you planning to sneak some comfy shoes under there!
A-Line
A-line dresses are the Swiss Army knife of wedding gowns – they suit every body type and venue.
Starting with a fitted top, these dresses flow gently outward in (you guessed it) an A shape.
They’re less dramatic than ball gowns but give you that bridal feel. Plus, you can move around without needing a team to help you navigate doorways!
Mermaid
Mermaid dresses hug every contour from chest to knee before flaring out dramatically. They’re giving red carpet glamour meets bridal beauty; trust me, heads will turn!
Remember that you might need to practice your dance moves – these stunners can be tricky to move in (but worth it for the photos).
Trumpet
Think of this style as the mermaid’s more laid-back cousin. The dress hugs your curves to about mid-thigh before gracefully flaring out (perfect for our gorgeous beach weddings here in Australia!).
You’ll achieve that stunning silhouette without feeling restricted, which is ideal if you plan to hit the dance floor hard at your reception.
Most fit and flare gowns in Australian boutiques range from $1,500 to $4,500, and they’re stunning in lightweight crepe or mikado silk that won’t weigh you down in our summer heat.
Sheath
Calling all modern minimalists! These stunners without extra volume are perfect for our warm climate and shine at coastal ceremonies. Look for breathable fabrics like silk chiffon or crepe—they’ll keep you cool during sunny outdoor photos!
Price-wise, you’re typically looking at $1,800 to $3,500, making them one of the more budget-friendly options (especially for alterations).
Column
Similar to the sheath but with a bit more structure, column dresses are straight up and down (hence the name!).
They’re perfect if you’re after that effortlessly elegant look, and they pack like a dream for destination weddings. For our climate, go for lightweight charmeuse or georgette – these fabrics give you that gorgeous drape without the weight.
Column dresses usually cost between $2,000 and $3,800 in most Australian boutiques, though designer versions can be more expensive.
Before you hit the boutiques, remember that these styles might look completely different on your body than on Pinterest (and that’s okay!).
The best approach?
Try on at least one of each silhouette, even if you think it’s not your style. I can’t tell you how many brides have walked into my boutique dead-set on a ball gown and walked out head over heels for a sleek sheath!
Finding Your Perfect Style Match
(Because your dress should feel as impressive as it looks!)
Body Shape and Comfort
Your dream dress must satisfy two primary criteria: gorgeous looks and all-day comfort. Structured fabrics like Mikado or Duchess satin will provide beautiful support if you have curves.
Petite?
Avoid overwhelming your frame with too much fabric – a fitted style can make you look taller (especially with those killer heels!).
Venue Vibes
Your venue plays a massive role in choosing your style and getting hitched at a stunning beach location.
Light, flowing fabrics are your friend – think silk chiffon or crepe that’ll catch those magical sea breezes.
Planning a formal ballroom affair? This is where those structured fabrics and dramatic silhouettes shine.
Weather Watch
Let’s talk about our unique Aussie weather (because nobody wants to melt at their wedding!):
- Summer brides: Keep it light and breezy with natural silk blends
- Spring/Autumn: You’ve got more flexibility – play with layers and textures
- Winter: Add some sleeve options or consider a gorgeous cape (perfect for those chilly evening photos!)
Style Tip: Not sure about a style? Walk around in it, sit down, and try a little dance move or two. Your dress should work with you, not against you—and yes, that includes being able to hug your guests without fear of a wardrobe malfunction!
There’s no such thing as a “wrong” body for any dress style – it’s all about finding what makes YOU feel incredible. Trust your gut (and maybe your bestie’s honest opinion) over any “rules” you’ve read online.
Ready to Start Shopping? Here’s Your Game Plan!
Alright, bestie. You’ve scrolled through Pinterest, saved about a million inspirational pictures, and now you’re ready to try on some gorgeous gowns!
But before you dive into the world of tulle and lace, let’s chat about how to make your dress-shopping experience unforgettable.
Our bridal boutique in Sydney typically order from international designers, so factor in that shipping time, bestie!
Most dresses take 6-8 months to arrive (add another month if you’re eyeing a European designer). Shopping between June and August? You’ll catch the new season collections arriving in stores – perfect timing for next year’s wedding!
Let’s talk dollars and sense:
- Entry-level designer gowns: $1,800 – $3,000
- Mid-range designers: $3,000 – $5,000
- Luxury designers: $5,000+
Keep 10-15% off your dress budget for alterations and accessories. Those little extras add up!
Most Sydney boutiques are appointment-only.
Book weekend slots at least two to three weeks in advance. They’re super popular, especially during the engagement season (hello, Christmas proposals!).
What to Bring
- Nude underwear (no bright prints showing through those sample dresses!)
- A strapless bra if you have one
- Photos of styles you love
- Your most honest friend or family member (but not your entire bridal party – too many opinions can be overwhelming)
Go in with an open mind,d but know your deal-breakers. You may be dead-set against strapless or want something with pockets (yes, they exist, and they’re fantastic!).
Share these must-haves with your stylist – they’re there to make your dreams come true!
This should be one of the most fun parts of wedding planning! Don’t get too caught up in trends or what others expect. The right dress will make you feel like the absolute best version of yourself.
Do you need to visit five different boutiques to find it? That’s normal. (eg, more champagne opportunities, right?).