How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Dress for Your Body Type

Your wedding dress is one of the most personal and important decisions you’ll make during your wedding planning journey. At The Barn at Green Valley, we witness brides radiating confidence in an array of styles—from rustic lace gowns to sleek modern silhouettes. But how do you choose a dress that flatters your figure?

Here's a comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect dress for your body type:

Hourglass Shape

Defined waist, balanced bust, and hips.

For hourglass brides, the key is to emphasize your natural curves. The mermaid or trumpet-style gown is your best friend, hugging your body from the bust down to the hips and flaring out at the knees. This style showcases your figure and exudes a glamorous vibe, perfect for the romantic and refined aesthetic of The Barn at Green Valley.

Pro Tip: Add a lace overlay to your dress for a vintage, romantic touch that blends seamlessly with the rustic elegance of our venue. Lace adds texture, creating a timeless and elegant look that suits the backdrop of our barn.

Here are some mermaid wedding dresses for inspiration:

Pear Shape

Narrower shoulders, wider hips.

Pear-shaped brides often feel more confident in styles that balance their proportions. A-line or ball gowns are ideal for you, as they draw attention to your upper body while softly flowing over your hips. This silhouette creates a fairytale-like effect, perfectly suited for our outdoor ceremonies and wide-open landscapes.

Pro Tip: Look for sweetheart necklines to accentuate your shoulders and décolletage while balancing out your frame. The natural beauty of our venue complements the voluminous elegance of these gowns.

For more inspiration on A-line wedding dresses:

Apple Shape

Fuller bust, broader midsection.

Apple-shaped brides often look stunning in empire waist or flowy dresses, which elongate the torso and create a soft, flattering silhouette. An empire waist cinches right under the bust and flows outward, which is perfect for minimizing the midsection and drawing attention upward.

Pro Tip: Choose dresses with delicate chiffon or tulle skirts to create a romantic, ethereal look. The rolling vineyards and rustic charm of The Barn at Green Valley offer the perfect backdrop for this flowing and graceful style.

Explore more empire waist wedding dresses:

Athletic Build

Straight figure, fewer curves.

For brides with an athletic build, your goal is to add some softness and curves to your silhouette. Sheath and fit-and-flare gowns work beautifully, hugging the body in all the right places to create a subtle hourglass shape.

Pro Tip: Consider dresses with draping or ruffles to add dimension and curves. Paired with our picturesque fields and rustic barn interiors, these gowns provide the perfect blend of simplicity and elegance, ensuring you stand out while maintaining a natural and effortless look.

Check out these sheath wedding dresses:

Petite Brides

Smaller frame and shorter stature.

Petite brides should aim to elongate their figure with empire waist or fit-and-flare gowns that don’t overwhelm their small frame. A gown that has vertical lines or subtle embellishments can make you appear taller.

Pro Tip: Opt for dresses without heavy or excessive fabric, as these can overwhelm your frame. The light, open-air feel of The Barn at Green Valley pairs perfectly with a simple, well-fitted gown.

Explore petite wedding dresses here:

Conclusion:

Your wedding day at The Barn at Green Valley deserves a dress that not only flatters your body type but also aligns with the style and atmosphere of the venue. Whether you're drawn to flowing fabrics, delicate lace, or structured silhouettes, the rustic yet elegant setting of our barn will enhance your bridal look, helping you feel confident and beautiful on your special day.

To explore more tips on bridal fashion and body types, visit:

Bonus Tip: Consider booking a bridal photoshoot at The Barn at Green Valley during golden hour—the warm, glowing light through the vineyards pairs beautifully with wedding gowns, creating stunning, timeless images you'll cherish forever.

Contact us for a Tour of The Barn at Green Valley to discuss how our venue can bring your wedding dreams to life!