Growing up, almost every little girl dreams of her wedding day. She envisions herself floating down the aisle in a beautiful gown of white with a veil so sheer that it has wafts behind her. Often she thinks of herself in terms of the beautiful women she sees in magazines or on TV. As she grows up she carries and nurtures the mental image of how she will appear on her special day. When she accepts the proposal from the love of her life, she is certain that her years of imagining are about to come true.

The first step in finding the perfect wedding gown is to realistically assess your self. Are you thin? Are you short? What is your body type? It is at this point that the bride may realize that most women do not look like celebrities; that she does not look like the cover girl on the magazine. No need for panic. Concentrate on looking at your self the way you really are, be realistic in your assessment. Remember, beauty is not only a size 4; beauty comes in all sizes and shapes.

Think about where and when the wedding will be, what the weather will be and what sort of tone you intend to set such as traditional, avant-garde or laid back. Try on many dresses before making your final choice. Even try dresses you think you would not like. Many times a dress will look marvellous on you even thought it may look frumpy on a hanger. Don’t choose a dress just for the style; choose your dress because you like the way it flatters your figure and makes you feel beautiful.

If there is an area of your dress that you feel is plain, have beadwork done to draw attention to that area and perhaps away from an area you would rather not accentuate. Details draw the eye so if you wish to downplay certain areas, choose a dress that is simpler in those areas. For example, if you are huge busted with a tiny waist, it is preferable to have a plainer bodice with a belted or pleated waist.

When it comes to deciding on whether to have sleeves or sleeveless the most important factor is the appearance of the arms. Are they flabby or toned? Do you have short arms or extremely long arms? Flabby arms in a sleeveless dress would only call attention to the loose skinned arms. Wear sleeves that do not fit too tight. If you have short arms wear ¾ sleeves to give the illusion of length; do not go sleeveless. If you have wide hips, do not wear a form fitting gown. Instead, opt for a ball gown style skirt that directs attention away from the hip area.

When you are choosing your wedding dress you want to choose what looks good on you and suits your figure. By choosing the dress you know makes you look beautiful you will be confident and glowing on the walk down the aisle.