G&G Bridal Dress Styles: A Guide to Every Type of Wedding Silhouette

So, you’ve said “yes” to the proposal — now it’s time to say “yes” to the dress! Finding the perfect bridal gown is no small feat. But as with so many other checklist items on your wedding-planning journey, the first step comes in discovering your personal aesthetic. Once you determine what you truly want in a wedding dress — from comfort to the desired aesthetic — you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect match that aligns with your vision. That said, it doesn’t hurt to do a little homework before venturing out to your first bridal appointment.

If you’re just starting your shopping journey, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the myriad of styles out there. You might be wondering: What’s the difference between a mermaid and a fit-and-flare gown? What about sheath and A-line? Luckily, our experts at G&G Bridal are here to help. With a diverse selection of wedding-day gowns, G&G Bridal’s luxury bridal boutique is now open at The Olana Design Center. Before you go, here are some of the most important wedding-dress terminology to know — plus some examples from our exquisite bridalwear collection.

Ball Gown

If you’ve always dreamed of a princess moment, a ball gown might be the dress for you. The silhouette is characterized by a fitted bodice and a full, voluminous skirt made of layers upon layers of frilly tulle. For a romantically ethereal look, The Sable dress boasts a semi-sheer bodice with deep-plunge neckline and exposed boning that emphasizes the waist. Delicate leafy lace applique trails down the dress, adding a touch of fairytale-esque whimsy — ideal for if you’re planning to walk down the aisle in the great outdoors. For something a little more restrained, The Leona offers a sleek, contemporary alternative with a billowy full skirt.

A-Line

Looking for something a little less dramatic than a ball gown but with enough volume to make a statement? An A-line dress style is fitted at the bodice and gradually flares out toward the hem — just like the shape of the letter “A.” It’s universally flattering — which makes it one of the most popular styles for brides-to-be. Bring on the romance with The Cordelia gown, which features a sumptuous skirt with heavy lining and tulle, and a six-foot-long train. Adorned with floral applique, the dress’s back bodice also flaunts a lace-up corset design. If you’re leaning toward something modern, The Atlas embraces a pared-back aesthetic with an elegant, square neckline that feels equal parts timeless and of-the-moment.

Mermaid

A mermaid gown is perfect for showing off a fluid, hourglass silhouette. This form-fitting style hugs the body closely from the bodice down to the knees before flaring out dramatically at the hem — just like a mermaid’s tail. If your taste skews sleek and modern, you will find plenty to love in The Milan. The shoulder-baring look takes a modest dip with its neckline, while the intricate beading along the off-the-shoulder straps adds a touch of understated sparkle. If you’re a bohemian bride who’s drawn to elaborate embellishments, The Eve might just be for you. Made from botanical-inspired lace layered over stretch lining and tulle, this off-the-shoulder number stuns with its intricate detailing and an elegant, six-foot train.

Fit and Flare

Similarly to a mermaid dress, fit-and-flare gowns boast a fitted, body-hugging top with a skirt that flares out from the waist or hips. This type of silhouette is also designed for accentuating an hourglass shape and creating the illusion of curves. Striking the perfect balance between traditional and modern, The Sierra Imperial features a strapless sweetheart neckline, a waist-cinching corset bodice, and a detachable long-sleeve bolero. But the drama lies in the softly cascading tulle skirt, which is adorned with delicate lace appliques — perfect for a bride looking to bring a touch of fairy-tale magic to an enchanting wedding.

Drop-Waist

This silhouette is one of the most sought-after trends that’s emerged over the last couple of years — and for good reason. A drop-waist dress is marked by a “dropped” waistline that sits lower than the natural waist, which gives it a distinctly princess-like appearance. It’s chic and ultra feminine, with an ever-so effortless, vintage-inspired appeal — something The Ramona gown has in spades. Designed with a flattering sweetheart neckline and detachable off-the-shoulder straps, The Ramona’s dropped waistline elongates the silhouette while evoking 1920s-era sophistication.

Strapless

Is there anything more classic than a strapless gown? A sleeve-free bodice draws attention to the shoulders and decolletage — as well as your face and meticulously styled hair! Stick to minimal lines with The Anastasia, which flatters the female form with a sultry, thigh-high slit and elegant draping. That’s not to mention the stunning corsetry. With a soft cowl neckline and a form-fitting bodice, this style is a well-loved hit with modern-day brides. The Solana, on the other hand, leans into a more-is-more approach with two-tone, floral lace appliques crafted from matte sequins.

Off-the-Shoulder

Those looking for a shoulder-baring bridal gown will be spoiled for choice at G&G Bridal, as many designs feature off-the-shoulder necklines. One of the most dramatic styles? The Monica Imperial — made for hyper-romantic brides-to-be who want to recreate a storybook wedding. Detachable tulle sleeves infuse the look with a dose of ethereal drama — as do the intricate floral appliques and delicate beadwork throughout. Another gown that dials up the glamour: The Winona. With its billowing sleeves, sheer corseted bodice, and light-as-air tulle skirt, The Winona brings an abundance of theater and movement with its design.

Slip

Seeking clean-lined elegance with as little effort as possible? Look to easy-breezy slips that toe the line between sophistication and comfort. With a loosely fitted silhouette and lightweight fabric, a slip is a timeless and sleek alternative to a traditional voluminous silhouette. If a slip-style bridal gown is on your wedding-day moodboard, look no further than The Davina. Cut close to the body, the gown just about skims the body without clinging to it. An asymmetrical neckline brings an element of playfulness, adding visual interest to an otherwise understated design. The back is draped into a low cowl, flowing into a five-foot train.

Sheath

A timeless classic, a sheath dress is typically fitted through the bodice and falls straight down without a waistline seam. Wrapping the body like a “sheath,” this style traces curves, making it an ultra-flattering option for many brides-to-be. If you’re looking for a clean and structured sheath gown (with a statement-making twist), The Harper offers a dreamy take on the silhouette. Complete with a plunging V-neckline, this figure-hugging gown drives attention to the shoulders with beautifully draped sleeve details. Another stunningly constructed sheath dress: The Oliver. Boasting a strapless sweetheart neckline and crossover pleats, The Oliver is quietly chic in a way that will undoubtedly stand the test of time.