Dress Styles: Ball Gown

The ball gown style is perfect for those brides envisioning a fairy tale wedding. This silhouette pairs a fitted bodice with a full skirt that can either be one piece or separates. The ball gown is most appropriate for large, traditional weddings where the dress will be consistent with the formality of the event.

Options: Much like the A-line dress, the ball gown can support many different necklines and sleeve lengths. Various combinations of these elements create many different looks for many different occasions. If you are having a very formal or traditional wedding where you are expected to be covered, choosing a ball gown with a portrait neck and long sleeves will keep you covered but also show your femininity. You can achieve a dramatic effect by choosing a strapless ball gown and pairing it with opera length gloves. If you want a simple yet elegant look, you can go with a sleeveless, scooped neck bodice that flows all the way to the ground.

Things to Consider: While this style can accommodate most body types, the ball gown is ideal for slender or pear-shaped figures as the full skirt helps to accentuate the waist and hide the lower body. If you have a large bust, this style will help to create the hourglass look since it emphasizes the waistline due to the fitted bodice and natural or dropped waist.

Beware: The volume of the ball gown can create false and unwanted illusions. Be careful if you are on the shorter side since you may not have the height to balance the size of the skirt. Also, instead of complimenting the figure of a full-breasted bride, the skirt could actually cause her to look larger. Keep these factors in mind when considering a ball gown, and remember that an A-line or princess cut dress can be more flattering while still providing the desired effect.

Dress Styles: Column

The column dress has a narrow shape that flows straight down from the neckline to the hem. This dress, also referred to as a sheath, tends to hug the body and show any and all of your curves The column is appropriate for all types of weddings, especially causal occasions on the beach, or intimate evening events at a banquet hall.

Options: Due to the simplicity of the column style, there are many ways to change the overall appearance of the dress. Mixing various necklines and sleeve lengths will create a range of different looks around the basic cut of the column dress. A strapless column dress will look sexy and elegant, while one with a bateau neck and long, bell sleeves will look more romantic and whimsical.

The column silhouette works well with many different skirt lengths. The classic look barely grazes the floor, but you can mix it up with a knee length skirt for a casual afternoon wedding, or add a bustle and train for winter church wedding. Because of the simplicity of this style, the length of your dress can add character and formality to your gown.

Things to Consider: Similar to the mermaid style, the column dress is best worn by lean figures, both short and tall. The elongating nature of this design will help petite brides appear taller. However, the column dress does not allow much room for hiding problem areas, such as a larger lower body. It can conceal minor flaws if you opt for a constructed column that will stay in place, but the slip style will be unforgiving. Also, boxy figures that do not have natural curves may consider accenting the waistline with a separate bodice or sash to create the illusion of a defined waist.

Beware: Body hugging designs such as the column dress can constrict your movement, including the ability to sit and dance as comfortably as you would wish on your big day.; If you want a highly-constructed column dress, you may consider one that has pleats or gathering in the back that will allow you to move more freely.