The Best Birdy Grey Bridesmaid Dress for Your Body Type
No matter your height, shape, or size, every body is a bridesmaid body. However, with online shopping, it can sometimes be tricky to visualize how a dress will look on your unique frame without trying it on. That’s where having an expert on hand makes all the difference—meet Mai, our lead designer and resident bridesmaid dress fit expert.
“I’ve always felt it was most important for people to know their body type in the first place — then, to be willing to experiment and try new things. One way to narrow down your options when picking dresses is to take notes on things you like and don’t like. Then it’s easier find something that fits that image,” she explains, “Also, people should consider their visual goals: Are they trying to elongate their legs? Create the illusion of curves? There are specific design details that can help them get there!”
Strong & Athletic Shoulders
Mai says, “A bridesmaid with this body type will want to deemphasize muscular arms and shoulders and accentuate her waistline.” One shouldered, asymmetrical necklines can be nice because they interrupt the horizontal line created by the shoulders and draw the eyes down to the waist. Similarly, Mai adds, our Cindy Wrap dress has a subtle asymmetry to her neckline—and a defined waistline—that creates a similar visual effect. For a feminine touch, try the Theresa dress, as her ruffle skirt creates visual interest down the gown, balancing out the impact of broad shoulders.
Long & lean
Bridesmaids whose shoulders, waist, and hips line up vertically will want to create the illusion of curves and will want to avoid silhouettes that double-down on the straight lines. Mai advises, “The sweetheart neckline of our Grace dress creates the illusion of curves, and you can tie her streamers at the waist to create a look that emphasizes your natural waistline and makes the skirt seem fuller.” The soft v-neck of the Spence convertible dress can also emphasize subtle curves in a very lovely way.
Apple shaped
This bridesmaid is more top-heavy and carries her weight around her mid-section. “It’s better to accentuate her natural waist, which usually sits a bit higher, at the empire level,” Mai explains. “I would recommend our Laurie and Hannah dresses in chiffon,” she added, explaining how the shirring in the skirt and lighter-than-air fabric will make this bridesmaid feel like a princess. "Our Cindy dress is another great option. With an adjustable waist, the romantic, flowing silhouette complements curves wonderfully."
Pear shaped
For the bridesmaid whose hips are fuller than her bust, Mai recommends cowl necks (think Lisa Long), halter necks (Monica or Kiko), and dresses with full, flowing skirts (like our August Convertible). All of these dresses draw attention upward, creating balance between the hips and booty and the bust and shoulders.
Petite
Tiny army, assemble! “I find that this person can generally pull off most looks,” Mai notes, “I would maybe avoid styles that are too shirred and flowy, in case she is swimming in it.” Mai recommends our satin slip dresses — like the Lisa Midi or the Ginny, noting that most of our gowns are constructed on the long side, so they will require alterations.
Hourglass
“She tends to be more busty, and can do well accentuating her natural curves,” Mai says. To show off a curvy hourglass frame, try our Gloria satin, Jay satin, and Devin chiffon dresses. “Square necks and open necklines like Alex and August can also be very flattering.”