When it comes to your wedding dress you want it to be just right.  It is important that the overall shape of the dress is flattering for your body type as well as reflect your personality. 

The black line drawing below can assist you in getting a feel for what you want your wedding dress to look like.  Start by choosing a dress shape and go from there.  By changing the neckline, sleeves, and seam options you can begin to envision the numerous possibilities for your dress. 

I have drawn some of the more simple design elements.  It can be helpful to look at bridal magazines to get ideas for other elements that you might like.  Details like lace, extra seaming, beading and embroidery can make all the difference.  Why have a dress that looks like all the others?  You are unique and your dress should be also.

Use your imagination and have fun designing the dress of your dreams.

Ball Gown

Straight

Mermaid





 

Neckline options

Square

Scoop

Sweetheart

V shape

The necklines can all be lowered, raised, widened or made narrower to suit your taste.

Sleeve options

Cap

Mid Arm

Elbow

¾

Wrist

Puffed cap sleeves

The sleeves can be made slim, full, with gathers at the shoulder seam or at the wrist.

Waistline options

Straight 

Scoop

Pointed

Angled

Inverted point

 The waistline seams can all be placed anywhere from under your bust to low on your hips.  The Mermaid style dress often gets a seam around the knees. 

 Or you can choose to have no waistline seam at all.

Other details

You can combine two waist line styles to create wonderful details.  The seam lines that are used to create a nice fit can also enhance a design.  In most gown styles you will find princess seam lines.  Princess seams run parallel along the torso and angle towards your bust and end in the front of your armhole seam.  Occasionally darts will be used as well.  Darts are two seams that run parallel along the torso and end just under your bust.  Another very popular seam detail is a wrap front.