So much to choose from …

Did you know that there are a number of different dress styles available to choose from that will flatter different body shapes but there are no hard and fast rules.

Unless you are a frequent wearer of extravagant outfits and therefore know what suits you, you should aim to try on an example of each shape to get an idea of what you like. Have a think about what you consider to be your best and worst features, the perfect dress will disguise or draw attention from your least favourite parts and highlight all the best bits.

Like any other type of clothing, wedding dresses are subject to fashion, but you need to ensure that the dress you choose is the right one for you. Remember, choosing a dress that is the height of fashion now may quickly look dated in your wedding photos. You can choose dresses or two piece outfits and both have advantages, but for both you will need to think about a number of aspects of your outfit.

Use this quick and easy guide to help you decide.

Please select a dress shape below to find out more.

› PRINCESS/A- LINE
› BALL GOWN
› COLUMN
› FISHTAIL
› EMPIRE

Princess/A Line

The Princess/A- line cut is narrow at the top, cut close to the ribcage, and extends out along the body in the shape of a triangle in a smooth elongated line.

Princess/A- line dresses provide an extremely versatile shape that can suit most brides, short or tall, slim or curvy. As it isn't figure hugging it can disguise any 'lumps and bumps' and will give a very flattering silhouette. Often a hoop is worn underneath the skirt to hold the shape out. Without a hoop, a slightly slimmer silhouette can be achieved, but you need to be careful that this doesn't spoil the overall shape of the gown.

This is the perfect dress to draw attention to your shoulders and bust area.

Famous brides: Audrey Hepburn, Jennifer Lopez

Ball Gown

The ball gown is a classic shape with a fitted bodice and very full skirt that brushes the floor. The pick-up skirt is a modern interpretation of this style.

The full skirt of this style suits a range of figures, from those who are tall and slim to the more curvaceous types. If you are conscious of your hips or are the classic pear-shaped lady, this will help disguise larger hips and bottoms.

Small or petite brides need to select gowns in this style very carefully or they might end up feeling swamped by it.

Famous brides: Victoria Beckham, Grace Kelly, Jordan

Column

A modern, glamorous take on the traditional wedding gown, the sheath dress is characterized by an understated profile that closely follows the curves of the body. Slim and sophisticated, this shape looks great with shoulder interest or dramatic jewellery.

This dress is perfect on slim women, of most heights, and is great for showing off good shoulders and arms

Famous brides: Marilyn Monroe (in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes)

Fishtail

Similar to the Column dress but even more figure-hugging, the Fishtail gown is characterized by a narrow, body-hugging bodice that flares dramatically at or below the knee. It is designed to show off a woman's curves and can be combined with boleros, jackets and stoles if you want to keep your arms hidden.

This is also ideal for petite brides as it will not overwhelm their size.

Famous brides: Sophie Wessex, Anne Heche

Empire

Typified by a high waisted seam just below the bust line, and a straight skirt this is a very elegant shape without being overly figure-hugging. It is generally a leaner silhouette than the Princess or A-line styles, so if you don't want a full skirt this could be for you.

This shape flatters most heights and body shapes, and is ideal for brides with smaller busts as it creates an illusion of cleavage. Shorter brides can be given an impression of height, as the waist is concealed.

Famous brides: Liv Tyler, Kate Winslett