Determine the purpose of the dress. Is it for a formal event, casual outing, work, or a special occasion like a wedding or party? The dress you choose should match the formality of the event.

Understand your body type to choose a dress that flatters your figure. Different dress styles suit different body shapes. Common body types include hourglass, pear, apple, and rectangle. Research which dress styles work well for your body shape.

Choose a color that complements your skin tone and reflects the mood of the event. If you're unsure, classic colors like black, navy, and neutral tones are versatile options. Bold colors and patterns can be great for adding a pop of personality.

Consider your personal style preferences. Do you prefer classic, elegant, trendy, bohemian, or minimalistic styles? The dress you choose should resonate with your individual taste and make you feel confident.

Always prioritize comfort. The dress should fit well, allowing you to move and sit comfortably. Avoid dresses that are too tight or too loose. Pay attention to the fabric and how it feels against your skin.

Choose a dress length that suits the occasion and your comfort level. Options include mini, knee-length, midi, and maxi dresses. The length should be appropriate for the event and make you feel at ease.

Consider any specific details you like, such as sleeve length (short, long, or sleeveless), neckline (V-neck, scoop, boat, etc.), and embellishments (lace, sequins, embroidery). These details can significantly impact the overall look of the dress.

Think about the accessories you'd like to pair with the dress. Shoes, jewelry, a handbag, and other accessories can elevate your outfit and tie the look together.

Take into account the current season and weather conditions. Choose appropriate fabrics and styles for the climate. Lighter fabrics and shorter sleeves are great for summer, while heavier fabrics and longer sleeves are more suitable for colder months.

Set a budget for the dress and stick to it. There are dresses available at various price points, so finding a stylish option within your budget is achievable.

If the dress doesn't fit perfectly, consider whether it can be altered to suit your body better. Many dresses can be tailored to achieve a more customized fit.

Remember that the most important aspect of choosing a dress is how it makes you feel. Confidence and comfort should be your top priorities. Trust your instincts and select a dress that resonates with your personal style and makes you excited to wear it.

Universally flattering, the A-line silhouette really is a girl's best friend. By gently flaring from the shoulders down, it skims curves rather than clinging to them, to create an elegant silhouette.

Is This Style for You? If you're petite A-Line adds the illusion of length; if you're tall it can add fullness, and if you've got curves you'd rather cover, the A-line does that too.

The most traditional of all dress silhouettes, the ball gown adds curves by accentuating the waist and flowing gracefully into a full skirt. The skirt is great at hiding full hips and creating a gorgeous hourglass figure.

Is This Style for You? A perfect choice for formal or “fairy-tale” inspired events, the ball gown style makes a wonderfully classic wedding dress. Look great on most body types.

Figure-hugging column dresses come in a variety of strapless and backless styles. This modern style has become popular among brides who want a chic or beach wedding.

Is This Style for You? An elegant choice for anyone with broad shoulders or slender, athletic builds, it can also elongate a petite figure. However, if there are certain areas you'd rather not accentuate, its clingy design might not be the style for you.

Also known as the trumpet or “fit and flare”, mermaid dresses are fitted at the top and flair dramatically around the knee.

Is This Style for You? Mermaid silhouettes accentuate the bust, waist and hips giving an hourglass figure, so it is perfect for showing off your curves.

This empire silhouette features a bodice with a high waistline directly below the bust. The look can be either soft or flowing or more structured and classic, depending on the fabric and cut used.

Is This Style for You? The empire silhouette draws attention up, enhancing the waist while softening the hips, making it a great look for most body types.

For the super sassy bride, the increasingly popular bridal mini ends well above the knees and is perfect for showing off a pair of sexy pins.

Is This Style For You? It is best suited for informal or outdoor weddings and is especially appropriate for summer beach weddings. Equally flattering for taller brides with long legs or shorter brides who want to appear taller on their special day.

Another great look for a casual bride, this gown’s hem ends just below the knee.

Is This Style For You? Many petite or curvy brides choose this style for both elegance and comfort. Best for cocktail wedding receptions or weddings during warmer months.

Tea-length dresses feature a hem that falls anywhere between the bottom of the knee and the bottom of the calf, creating an elegant yet casual style. Popular in the 1950s, this style is a good choice for those who want to add a vintage touch to their wedding ensemble.

Is This Style For You? Tea-length dresses are ideal for showing off your legs and drawing attention to a beautiful pair of shoes! A popular choice as a “second” dress to change into for your reception.

The ankle-length gown is hemmed right at the ankles, thereby showing off your feet and shoes. The skirt can be either full or fitting.

Is This Style For You? Great for brides who want to present themselves as smart, stylish and modern. Because this skirt’s hem does not touch the ground, it is also highly sought after for outdoor weddings or for the bride who just doesn’t want guests stepping on petallush!

Just slightly longer than the ankle-length wedding dress, this style’s skirt is not meant to drag on the floor but rather float just inches above it. Some floor-length dresses come with detailing along the hem to accentuate the style.

Is This Style For You? Rather than having your shoes and feet covered by your gown, having them visible can often ‘balance out’ your wedding ensemble. Why not add another color to your wedding ensemble, for example red, and wear a pair of shoes in that color? Guests will be pleasantly surprised when they see a striking pair of shoes peeping out as you walk down the aisle!