Whether you’re the bride-to-be or a guest, picking out a bridal shower outfit can be tricky. But with our tips, you’ll find a dress that flatters your shape and suits the occasion.
For instance, a flowy floral maxi might work for bridal shower dresses for bride, while an ivory jumpsuit or chic pantsuit would look great at a winter event.
Hourglass
People with this body type are usually well-endowed in the hips and bust, but their waistline is significantly smaller than their shoulder and hip measurements. This gives them a curvy figure that is beautifully proportioned.
To skilfully accentuate your hourglass shape, choose dresses that hug your curves. Avoid loose fabrics or boxy skirts, which can create an unbalanced look. Instead, opt for skirts with a slight flare and a high-waisted silhouette. A skirt hem that ends at or just below the knee (at the narrowest point of your leg) is also a great choice, as it will elongate your legs.
For tops, a blouse with a deep sweetheart neckline will accentuate your alluring shoulders and jawline. A fitted sleeve is also ideal, but you should avoid wide sleeves like bell or flutter sleeve designs. Bishop sleeves and a fit-and-flare style will also flatter if they have fitted cuffs and a visual ending point close to your bust line.
Hourglasses with a narrow waist can show off their figure by choosing a trumpet, mermaid, or bias-cut bridal gown. A ruching detail at the waist will highlight your well-defined waist even more.
Triangle
The triangle silhouette is great for women with a smaller upper body who want to add volume and accentuate their neckline and shoulders. Look for dresses with a deep neckline and pleated material to make your shoulders appear more pronounced. Avoid tops with padded shoulders, big lapels, and epaulets that draw attention to your broad shoulders.
You’ll also want to look for tops with bell or puffier sleeves to elongate your torso and create balance. A peplum dress is another good option as it accentuates your natural waistline and will help to slim down the sides of your body. If you choose a button-up shirt, leave the first few buttons undone to expose some skin and add visual interest.
Inverted triangle bodies typically have wider hips and thighs than their shoulders and bust area, so it’s important to find outfits that visually balance your lower half. A dress with a full skirt and details on the hips is a great choice for this body type, as are shirts with pleats or ruching that can add curves to the midsection.
Choosing a bridal shower dress is an exciting time for every bride-to-be. While you should always consider the specific dress code and venue, there are endless options to suit your style. With a little planning and preparation, you can be sure to find a flattering bridal shower dress that will ensure you’re looking your best on this special day!
Athletic
Whether you’re the bride-to-be or just attending, looking at your silhouette when shopping for bridal shower outfits is important. The right silhouette can highlight your figure, accentuate your best features, and flatter any body.
A simple and chic dress is the way to go if you have an athletic silhouette. You can opt for a sheath or wrap dress to cinch your waist and play up your curves. Look for dresses with lace, embroidery, and ruffles for extra femininity. A plunging neckline will also elongate your neck and face, while a high collar can define your face.
As for sleeves, a narrow style like a turtleneck, mandarin, crew, or funnel neck will make your shoulders appear slimmer. On the other hand, wide sleeve lengths like flared, princess, or puff sleeves will add volume and create balance in your frame.
Although it’s usually the maid of honor or a close friend who throws a bridal shower, any loved one can join the fun and festivities. If you’re a guest, the key is to keep the event’s tone in mind and choose an outfit that fits the theme. If the bridal shower is a casual backyard brunch, you can opt for a maxi dress or a cute romper. For a more formal bridal shower, consider a sheath dress with a beautiful floral print and elegant details like lace.
Pear-Shaped
Women with a pear-shaped body have larger hips and thighs, but their shoulders and busts are narrower in comparison. This makes their torso longer than their legs, making it difficult to find flattering clothing. Women with this shape often fit well into a smaller size for the bottom half of their bodies, but if they get a larger dress, it will leave an unattractive gap at the waistline.
The best style for brides with a pear-shaped silhouette is a dress that accentuates their curves. A sheath or trumpet dress will highlight their curves and draw attention to the upper part of their body, while a full skirt will help them look proportionate. A sleeveless dress with a boat or deep neckline works for this body type.
The pear-shaped body has a defined waistline, so outfits that cinch the waist will work wonders for this figure. Belted dresses, peplum tops, and high-waisted jeans will all help to create a leaner appearance and flatter their curves. Choosing a floral print or lace details will add to the feminine appeal of a pear-shaped bridal shower dress. Adding an accent piece like a chunky necklace or eye-catching earrings can also draw attention to the body’s upper portion. Lastly, choosing shoes that complement the look will complete the bridal shower attire.
