If You’re Pear-Shaped

Look For: A skirt that gradually flares out in an A formation from the natural waist to the floor, highlighting the narrowness of the midsection and floating away from the hips and thighs. (Sturdier fabrics, such as duchesse satin and taffeta, are especially effective, since they won’t cling.) A spaghetti-strap bodice or a V neckline will also showcase a more slender upper body.

Keep in Mind: A classic A-line silhouette lends itself to formal weddings, but it can also be dressed down when made from a more casual fabric, like eyelet lace or raw-silk shantung.

Stress-Saving Tip: Use a digital camera to snap photos of yourself in serious-contender dresses, then review them again later. And don’t hyperventilate: There’s a perfectly good reason why you aren’t fitting into your usual size at the bridal salon. In a cruel twist of fate, wedding gowns tend to run one or two sizes smaller than regular clothing lines. So if you’re an 8, gear up to try on 10s and 12s — not to go on a crazy crash diet.