“Every woman has a beauty that is her own and unique to her, and that’s what you should highlight,” says Kobus Dippenaar, stellar SA fashion designer who specialises in couture evening and bridal gowns. “It starts with how you feel about your body – how you feel in your own skin – because that translates into confidence.”
But there are also ways to boost your confidence on your big day, starting with a wedding gown that truly suits your sexy shape. “Take trustworthy friends or family with you when go gown shopping – it’s good to have their honest opinion about what suits you and what doesn’t. And try on as many dresses as you can – you’ll find there are styles you never thought of that flatter your figure,” adds Kobus. Here, his tips for styles to suit your body type.
If you’re…
… Curvy, like Kim Kardashian
Kobus Dippenaar at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Cape Town 2014; photo by Simon Deiner/SDR
“A mermaid-style dress that’s figure-hugging around the bust area, cinches in at your waist and then flares out below the thighs or knees is incredibly flattering,” says Kobus. “It keeps your curves in proportion by accentuating your small waist, and it looks wonderfully elegant.”
… Long and lean, like Charlize Theron
Kobus Dippenaar at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Cape Town 2014; photo by Simon Deiner/SDR
“This body shape can wear several different styles,” says Kobus. “Sleek, simple shapes with deep backs make for a striking silhouette. Gowns that have corseted bodices and layered skirts are a fairy tale alternative and help to add curves to lean figures. If you need a bust boost, don’t be afraid to ask your couturier or tailor to sew in bust pads for you.”
… Petite, like Eva Longoria
Kobus Dippenaar at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Cape Town 2014; photo by Simon Deiner/SDR
“Don’t be tempted to swamp your smaller frame in swathes of fabric and layers and layers of tulle,” says Kobus. “Gowns that create the illusion of length, like empire waistlines, beautiful trains and V-necklines help with this. And don’t shy away from fitted dresses, especially if you have a small waist.”
… Pear-shaped, like Alicia Keys
Kobus Dippenaar at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Cape Town 2014; photo by Simon Deiner/SDR
“An A-line gown with a full skirt and detailing will look beautiful on you, skimming over your lower half gently without making you feel shapeless,” explains Kobus. “Embellished sleeves or bare shoulders draw the eye upwards towards your face.”
Kobus’ one, universal figure-fixing tip:
“I personally love a shoe with a heel – I’m not a fan of flats with a wedding dress. Why? It adds glamour and it elongates your legs, which is extremely flattering. Your dress will hang better with heels.”
On a budget?
“As far as sample-sale dresses, a good boutique to watch is Calegra, which has several branches around the country,” shares Kobus.
And about that veil…
“Always pair your veil with your dress,” advises Kobus. “When you go veil shopping, see what each veil looks like with your dress – it should pick up on details of your gown, like the colour or type of fabric. For me, it’s about the whole picture and how it all fits together.”
Already bought your dress? Tweet us your wedding-dress pics at @GLAMOUR_sa with #GLAMWedding to share!
Sarah Browning, 24, is the managing editor of GLAMOUR. She moved to SA from London three years ago and lives in Cape Town. In this #GLAMWedding Wedding Blog, Sarah’s sharing her wedding-planning journey with you. Join the conversation! Tweet your thoughts to Sarah via @GLAMOUR_sa using #GLAMWedding. For more about Kobus Dippenaar and his designs, click here.
