Just got engaged and feeling a little overwhelmed about wedding dress shopping? You’re not alone—and we’re here to help make things easier and more fun. One great place to start? Learning about dress silhouettes!
If you’re not sure what styles you like (or what might work best for your body), don’t worry. That’s what we’re here for. At Smart Brides, we believe every bride deserves to feel confident, beautiful, and totally themselves. Understanding silhouettes can give you a better sense of what feels good and looks amazing—because you deserve both.
Different silhouettes can give off different vibes. A fitted gown can feel sleek or sexy, while an A-line dress brings that effortless romantic energy. Ballgowns offer full-on drama and princess vibes, while simpler styles with clean lines feel fresh and modern. You don’t need to know exactly what you want yet—just getting familiar with these shapes can help you see what resonates. And here’s something really important: the best silhouette is the one that makes you feel the most comfortable and confident.
Some brides love a little structure and support, while others prefer something looser and easier to move in. There’s no “perfect” body type for any dress—just the right fit for you. Taking time to learn what you like helps take the stress out of shopping and brings you closer to that amazing moment where you look in the mirror and just know. Trust your instincts—you’ve got this.
Ballgown
A ballgown wedding dress is the ultimate in classic, fairytale bridal style. Ballgown wedding dresses are all about contrast—a snug, structured bodice paired with a dramatically full skirt. What sets them apart from A-line styles is the bold silhouette: while A-lines flow gently from the waist, ballgowns make a striking statement with a sharp distinction between the fitted top and the voluminous bottom. This style is ideal for brides who love a touch of vintage elegance or want a classic, regal vibe. If you’re looking to make an entrance, the ballgown silhouette definitely brings the wow factor.
Serena – Opal
Phoenix Bridal- Parker
Magarett- Taida & Monica Loretti- Cordelia
Magarett- Taida & Monica Loretti- Cordelia
A-Line
An A-line wedding dress is one of the most timeless and universally flattering silhouettes, known for its elegant simplicity and easy-to-wear shape. A-line dresses are known for their easy, flowy shape that subtly flares out from the waist—think of the shape of an ‘A’ (that’s where the name comes from). Loved for their comfort and effortless vibe, A-lines are a go-to for good reason: they flatter just about every body type and feel great to wear all day long.
Herms- Hubbo
Herms- Heroica
Herms- Frazer
Herms- Frazer
Fitted
A fitted wedding dress is all about highlighting your natural shape with a sleek, body-contouring silhouette. Fit and flare wedding dresses do exactly what their name says—hug your curves through the top and hips, then flare out for a little drama and flow. They’re the perfect pick for brides who love the look of a fitted gown but still want to move, dance, and breathe comfortably. Chic, flattering, and totally wearable? Yes, please.
Herms- Gloria
Herms- GrazianoPhoenix- Ivy & Herms- Harbor
Herms- GrazianoPhoenix- Ivy & Herms- Harbor
Corseted
A corset bridal gown is all about structure, support, and a touch of vintage romance. Looking for structure, support, and a little bit of drama? Corset wedding gowns are designed to sculpt and flatter, blending timeless elegance with modern edge. These gowns feature a structured bodice—often with visible boning, lace-up backs, or hook-and-eye details—that shapes the waist and enhances your natural curves.
Margarett- Troja
Herms- Girona
Herms- Hampton & Herms- Harlem
Gowns with Sleeves
A sleeved bridal gown combines elegance, versatility, and a touch of timeless charm, offering a sophisticated option for brides who want a bit more coverage or a unique twist on traditional bridal style. Sleeves offer a perfect blend of elegance, coverage, and timeless style. Whether you prefer long, dramatic sleeves or delicate cap sleeves, this silhouette provides beautiful coverage while maintaining sophistication. Sleeves can showcase intricate details like lace, embroidery, or beading, adding a unique touch to your gown. Ideal for cooler weather, sleeved dresses keep you comfortable without compromising on style. With their classic appeal, sleeved gowns are versatile enough to complement any wedding theme, from romantic and vintage to modern and chic.
Herms- Ferentillo
True Bride- Leonora
True Bride- Leonora
Herms- Fullerton & Margarett- Tradizia
Column/ Sheath gown
The column bridal gown is a stunningly sleek and minimalist choice for the modern bride. Its straight, narrow silhouette skims the body from top to bottom, offering a fitted yet graceful look. The design is simple yet sophisticated, with smooth lines that create a beautifully elongated appearance. This gown is perfect for brides who want an understated, chic style without the dramatic volume of other silhouettes.
Margarett- Tsairne
Herms- Ferrera
Herms- Ferrera
Herms -Daphne
Which one is your favourite? Book your appointment to try it on!