Best Designer Clothing

It can be difficult to find a great bridal gown that looks good on you. Even if you're tall and thin, the model was probably made for someone just a little different. If you have a less stylish figure, getting the right gown can be a serious trial.

If you're plus sized, an unusual shape, or just can't find anything that fits, there's still hope. Specialty boutiques and other stores, plus a good knowledge of what suits you and what doesn't will help you find the perfect bridal gown for your wedding. Here are the shape categories that most women fall into, and information about the styles that flatter each.

Classic hourglass - When your bust and hip measurements are similar and your waistline is strongly defined, you're an hourglass. Statistically, you're also probably over a size fourteen, making shopping for bridal dresses tricky. The good news is that many styles work well for this shape, including well supported strapless gowns.

Pear - Pear shaped women have a smaller bust and larger hips. This is also called the spoon shape. Add interest to your bridal gown's bodice with bead work, embroidery, and other detailing. This will help you balance your smaller top half against your bottom half.

Apple shapes - If you tend to have similarly sized hips and bust, but have a poorly defined waist, your shape is called an apple. Empire waists, when used with long full skirts, can help you de-emphasize your waist and hips. Don't choose a short bridal gown in this style, however - you could look pregnant!

Petite - If you're under 165 cm (5'4") tall, you're considered petite. That means you have your own set of challenges - trying to find a gown that's not too straight and slim and still doesn't overwhelm you with ruffles and detailing can be tough. If you do prefer a simple gown, try a more elaborate headdress to set it off.

Plus size - Women who wear plus sizes may also have trouble when it comes to finding bridal gowns - there are few designs made just for them. Most dresses are just sized up from those made for smaller women, and thus have fitting issues. Fortunately, there are a number of bridal boutiques online that specialize in plus size dresses, as well as in larger cities.

The most important think to keep in mind when choosing your bridal gown is that you should know what looks good on you. However, you should also keep track of the brands and how they fit when you try on dresses. There may be similarities throughout a line.

Of course, if you're having lots of problems, you can always have a wedding dress customized or made specially to fit you. This is a lot less costly than you might think, and you'll be sure to look great. However, give your seamstress or tailor plenty of time - up to a year - so you'll get the perfect bridal gown for your big day.