Unpicking the bridal mumbo jumbo - we start with the shape of the skirt
BALL GOWN
BALLGOWN AND FULL A-LINE
A ballgown silhouette means the skirt of the gown is tight at the waist and then flares out wide. The skirt fabric is gathered or pleated in to the waist to create a voluminous skirt. If it is a full a-line it won't have the pleating or gathering, but it will be a very large circle of fabric.
It can be layers of tulle which creates a big floaty skirt that is very twirl worthy. Or it can be satin or mikado which creates a full but sleek line.
For famous ball gown brides look no further than Princess Eugenie or Serena Williams.
The ballgown and full a-line are universal shapes that will flatter many brides. Some ultra petite brides can feel overwhelmed by the volumne of skirt, but as with many things bridal it is personal preference.
The ballgown is the iconic bridal shape, so even if it isn't your dream you should try one on when you are in store with us. Even if it is just to have a twirl!
MEDIUM A-LINE
This gown will have a natural waist (a seam that sits on your waist) and then flare out to create an A shape.
An a-line can be any fabric from plain to lace, from soft tulle to satin. Below the waistline the fabric will sit flat or have minimal gathers.
A medium a-line is great for many body shapes and it a very easy to wear dress. It allows for easy movement and is perfect for dancing. An a-line hem is great for balancing out your body shape and giving an hourglass look.
For famous a-line brides look no further than Amal Clooney and Paris Hilton.
SMALL A-LINE
The smaller aline is usually a bit more fitted over the hip. It is awesome for that bride wanting a slim skirt but not to be restricted for dancing or movement. A shape that isn't too fitted but also doesn't have the bulk of a ballgown.
It's a great shape if you want to have an interesting bodice, but not detract from that. You can also easily pair it with an overskirt or a dramatic veil if you want to add to the look
For a famous bride that chose a small a-line take a look at Chanel Iman and Meghan Markle.
Slim a-line's are great for an outdoor wedding; beach or garden, because it is easy to move around. The small train is easy to bustle at the back.
FIT AND FLARE
The fit and flare skirt comes in at the lower thigh or knee and then angles out to the hem.
There is a version that is fitted much further down which is called a mermaid. This is a popular style at the moment as it is quite restrictive.
This fit and flare is just perfect for anyone with an hourglass figure who want to show it off. A great thigh high split is a popular addition this season for those that really want to bring the sexy.
For well known brides that embraced this sexy shape look for Kim Kardashian and Britney Spears (her latest wedding!).
SHEATH
The sheath skirt - ah, so minimalist and so chic. The simplicity of this skirt is its beauty as it tends to fit the body inspiring us to say your gown "fits like a glove."
Kate Moss and Becca Tobin really embraced this simple elegant style.
Relaxed over the hips and then falling straight down to the hem. They often get described by the brides that wear them as effortless. This is a great style for a shorter person as the shape elongates the body.