Finding A Dress-Pear Body Type

Finding the perfect wedding dress can be a bit overwhelming if you haven't been planning your wedding since you were a kid. I  was one of those brides. Once I finally got engaged, I knew what I wanted my dress to look like, but then as it got closer to me trying dresses on, I started to question what style of dress might look good on my body type. That's when I started to think about the actual shape of my potential wedding dress....and that's how I found the perfect style for me. Now, it's my turn to help you find yours. :-)

There are 5 basic body types. Apple-more of a round shape; Pear-more of a rounded bottom and narrower top; Triangle-more of a wider top, and a narrower bottom; Rectangle-more of a boxy shape, more athletic build (labeled "ruler" in the picture); and Hourglass-a wider top and matching bottom coming in near the midsection to a narrower point.

This post is just for those with a pear body type. It is part of a 5 part series showcasing the different body types and how to find a wedding dress that complements your body perfectly. Go with the one closest to your body shape and hopefully you'll have luck. :-)

Source: SOS Swim

In actual people, this is what the shapes look like:

From left to right: Pear shape, Triangle shape, Rectangle/Ruler shape, Apple shape, Hourglass shape
Source: She Knows

The posts about the other body types can be found here:
Finding a Dress-Apple Body Type
Finding a Dress-Pear Body Type (This post)
Finding a Dress-Triangle Body Type
Finding a Dress-Rectangle Body Type
Finding a Dress Hourglass Type

When you are a pear body type, your hips are wider than your shoulders. You have a well defined waist, and your bottom is rounded.You look best when accentuating your waist and arms, and selecting styles that add volume to your upper body and minimize your hips.

Source: David's Bridal

So, a cartoon drawing is all well and good, but what does that mean in a real dress? Here are some images to help you get an idea of what each of these look like on an actual person.

Empire Gowns

Source: JD Bridal

A-Line Gowns

Source: JD Bridal

Ball Gowns

Source: JenJen House

So, there you have it. The best types of silhouettes for a pear body shape. I want to mention here that it's not just the shape the matters when picking out a dress. The waist height makes a difference in how the dress looks, as well as straps, accents, sashes, and train length. As you can see in the pictures, the waist is shifted on many of the dresses, and it gives the dress a completely different look. Don't assume that just because you have a pear shaped body, you are limited to one specific style of dress. There are so many options out there, don't lose hope! :-D I personally really love JD Bridal's site, as well as JenJenHouse for looking at pictures of dresses. And they're so reasonably priced, if you can find a tailor to measure you properly, you've got yourself a steal of a dress, and you'll know it's the dress of your dreams!

Best of luck Blushing Brides!