Finding The One: Choosing the Right Wedding Dress for Your Body Type—and When to Start Shopping
The moment you step into a bridal boutique is one of the most exhilarating milestones of wedding planning. But for many brides, it's also one of the most overwhelming. With endless silhouettes, fabrics, and designers to choose from, how do you know what will flatter you most? And when should you begin the search?
At ARC Events, we believe that confidence is the best thing you can wear—and that begins with understanding your body and giving yourself the time to enjoy the process. Here’s our guide to finding the perfect dress for you, with expert insight on when to begin shopping.
What Wedding Dress Style Suits My Body Type?
While every bride is unique, and rules are made to be broken, understanding your body shape can help you hone in on silhouettes that enhance your natural proportions.
Hourglass
Characteristics: Defined waist, balanced bust and hips
Best styles:
Mermaid or trumpet gowns highlight curves beautifully
Wrap dresses and corseted bodices show off the waistline
Look for structure: fabrics like satin and mikado hold shape well
Pear-Shaped
Characteristics: Hips wider than shoulders
Best styles:
A-line dresses skim over the hips and draw the eye upward
Off-the-shoulder or embellished necklines balance proportions
Avoid heavy detailing on the lower half; keep it clean and elegant
Apple-Shaped
Characteristics: Full bust and midsection, slimmer legs
Best styles:
Empire waist gowns that gather just under the bust are flattering
Soft chiffon or tulle skirts add movement and grace
V-necks elongate the torso and create balance
Athletic/Rectangle
Characteristics: Straight silhouette, minimal waist definition
Best styles:
Ball gowns add volume and create a waistline
Sheath or bias-cut dresses enhance natural curves
Consider dramatic sleeves or capes to add dimension
Petite
Characteristics: Under 5'4", smaller frame
Best styles:
Column and sheath dresses elongate the figure
Keep embellishments proportionate and avoid overwhelming skirts
High waists and vertical seams are your best friends
Tall
Characteristics: Long limbs, statuesque frame
Best styles:
Simple, structured designs emphasize elegance
Dropped waists and dramatic trains work well
Don't shy away from bold features like bows, sleeves, or volume
ARC Top Tip: Always try on a variety of styles, even ones you wouldn’t normally consider. The mirror may surprise you.
When Should I Start Shopping for My Wedding Dress?
Bridalwear isn’t fast fashion, it’s bespoke, often hand-crafted, and made-to-order. To avoid stress and costly rush fees, we recommend this timeline:
9–12 Months Before the Wedding
Begin browsing styles, booking appointments, and trying on dresses
Ideal time to place your order, especially if alterations or customizations are needed
6–8 Months Before
Your dress should be ordered by now; fittings may begin depending on the designer
Schedule your first fitting if your dress has arrived
2–3 Months Before
Second and third fittings will fine-tune the fit
Bring your wedding shoes and undergarments to fittings for accuracy
1 Month Before
Final fitting and pick-up
Try on the full look (dress, veil, accessories) to ensure perfection
Planning a shorter engagement? Sample sales and ready-to-wear options can be a lifesaver—but be decisive and book appointments early.
Choosing your wedding dress is about celebrating your body and your story, not chasing trends. Whether you're dreaming of a minimalist gown, a dramatic train, or vintage lace, the key is finding something that makes you feel authentically yourself.
At ARC Events, we work closely with trusted bridal ateliers and stylists to ensure your dress journey is joyful, stress-free, and entirely bespoke. Need help aligning your dress with your venue, styling, or timeline? Just ask—we’d love to assist.