Ball Gowns are probably the most popular style of wedding gowns. At some point in her childhood every little girl has fantasies of a magnificent ball gown with a sweeping train. Princess Diana ring a bell? This style of gown was first made popular in 1840 at Queen Victoria’s royal wedding.  Need we say more?

A ball gown is the most formal of all female fashions. It has a small waist with a voluminous skirt and layers of fabric underneath. Every ball gown has a form of a tulle petticoat to help give it the volume it needs. Decollete necklines and long sweeping skirts are common. but choices abound. A sweetheart neckline plays up an ample bust line while a simple scoop neck works well for many figures. Cap sleeves or strapless are also popular.  This gown works well for a winter wedding, but the layers of fabric may not be ideal for a summer event. How chic would this style be with a faux fur wrap?

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Named for Napoleon’s wife, Empress Josephine, the Empire Waist is eye-catching and a good choice for a variety of body types. The silhouette is defined by a gathered waist under the bust line which then falls into a slightly A-line, long and flowing shape. This style cuts horizontally across the body and creates a long, slender look.

It is extremely comfortable, flattering on tall and lean figures as well as pear or apple shaped body types that are looking to de-emphasize certain areas. It is a perfect style for an outdoor soiree or a warm weather wedding. The loose shape is usually constructed of lighter fabrics such as chiffon, silk, satin, and tulle, and is quite flexible - perfect for an evening of dancing. Embellished bust lines are a wonderful feature of some gowns. Lela Rose, Monique Lhuillier, and Vera Wang have lovely styles that feature this shape. For a black tie affair, crystals and heavy bead work or appliques on the skirt can make an impressive statement.  Most designs are loose fitting below the bust line, reminiscent of the flowing and draped gowns of the classical Greek and Roman goddesses. Obviously the style has passed the test of time. No worries that it will ever look dated.

Whether you are empress or goddess, the empire waist is worth a look……

Check out Monique Lhuillier and Vera Wang or browse Lela Rose’s site.

There is no single more universally flattering silhouette than the A-line.  This delightful quality makes it the “go to” place to begin dress shopping.  This shape is narrow at the shoulders, has a form-fitting bodice that skims the hips gracefully and then fans out to create a skirt with a touch of volume. With the right fabric it can work on many body types. Lace is especially fetching in this style. Many types of necklines can work with this silhouette, strapless is particularly stunning.

We owe this versatile silhouette to the fashion icon Christian Dior, for he was the first designer to popularize this style. His 1955 Spring-Summer “New Look” collection featured gowns with straight lines that were literally shaped to resemble the letter A. Rather than reminiscent of a Nathanial Hawthorn novel, the look is extremely feminine, accentuating waist and emphasizing hips, sleek on top and fanning out to a full skirt.  But don’t just think of wedding gowns……..coats, dresses, and skirts are also found in the flattering A-line silhouette.

Look for straight lines and narrow features. Think Jacqueline Kennedy, for she helped to bring this style into the forefront of the American woman’s wardrobe. A-line represents a truly sophisticated and chic sensibility, a true shape for every woman.

Thank you…..
Take a peek at the 1955 A-line and then at a Vera Wang gown.