In modern times, there are so many possibilities available to brides when it comes to wedding dresses. The wedding dress has come a long way from the "only available in white frills" era and there is really a type and design available which will satisfy any bride. All these choices can however lead to a lot of confusion; therefore there are certain things that any bride-to-be should keep in mind before she goes hunting for a wedding dress.

In this article we explore how different types of wedding dresses compliment different body types.

Unfortunately not all women have the bridal-catalogue-model-look, therefore it's best to know your body type so that you can highlight your best features and take the focus off your not-so-perfect features. There are tons of very talented wedding dress designers out there, who can assist you in making the correct choice. However, some brides-to-be choose to design their own dresses, and should be very careful that their dream dress does not end up being their worst nightmare.

Before your wedding dress search starts, decide which of the following body types describe you best and choose your type of wedding dress accordingly.

The hourglass figure: If you have an hourglass figure, it is important to emphasize your curves and waist. Ideal wedding dresses would be bodices with corsets or two-piece items such as ball gowns.

The pear shape figure: The perfect wedding dress for a pear shape figure is a wedding dress with an A-line cut. This style will help hide the full hips and will put more emphasis on the torso and bust areas of the bride.

The petite shape: Petite women should choose dresses with simple cuts and fabric types to make them look taller and slender. Big ball gowns and mermaid cut wedding dresses (wedding dresses that are designed to fit from the waist area until the knees before it comes with stylish flair down to the feet) should be avoided as these two types would only overwhelm the natural shape of the petite body.

The taller woman: The majority of dress styles work well on tall women. The only style that should be avoided is the empire line dress because this design will overemphasize the already tall frame and can be too overwhelming, especially when combined with small wedding accessories.

The full waist: Drop waist and princess line dresses flatter the curves of the waist and are therefore good choices for women with a full waist.

Broad shoulders: Women with broad shoulders should not wear off-the-shoulder and halter type wedding dresses, as this will overemphasize the already broad shoulders. A better choice would be a strapless wedding dress enhanced by accessories and jewelry with intricate designs.

By keeping the above advice in mind, you should have no problem finding your perfect wedding dress. If you are unsure about your choice of dress, grab your mom and your best friend and get second and third opinions. It is important that you feel comfortable in your dress!

Happy hunting and may you look like a princess on your special day!

Article courtesy of For Ever After Bridal Directory (www.foreverafter.co.za) - where you will find everything from the day you get engaged, right through to your honeymoon!