Wedding Dress Styles: Part III

The Column Dress

The column dress has a narrow shape that flows straight down from the neckline to the hem. This dress, also referred to as a sheath, tends to hug the body and show any and all curves you may have. The column is appropriate for all types of weddings, especially causal occasions on the beach, or intimate evening events at a banquet hall.

Structure: 

The column style is simplistic, but there are many ways to customize the overall appearance of the dress. Mixing various necklines and sleeve lengths will create a range of different looks around the gown's basic cut. A strapless column dress will look sexy and elegant, while one with a bateau neck and long, bell sleeves will look more romantic and whimsical. The column silhouette works well with many different skirt lengths. Basically, the options are pretty much limitless!

Fabrics:

The other major factor in the construction of the column dress is the fabric. Simply changing the material choice for this style can take the same dress from a slinky slip dress to highly constructed dramatic statement. If you prefer a slip dress, you should look for fabrics that can flow easily over the contours of your body, like light silks and satin. Heavier fabrics that can maintain shape, like damask or peau de soie silk, will give the dress a defined contour that will withstand movement.

Gown Enhancers: 

Beading and lace sheaths are gorgeous additions to this style of dress. Because the style is so form fitting, the addition of design work gives it a little extra "umph".  Women with more boxy figures that do not have natural curves may consider accenting the waistline with a separate bodice or sash to create the illusion of a defined waist.

Body Types: 

Similar to the mermaid style, the column dress is best worn by lean figures, both short and tall. The elongating nature of this design will help petite brides appear taller. However, the column dress does not allow much room for hiding problem areas, such as a larger lower body. It can conceal minor flaws if you opt for a constructed column that will stay in place, but the slip style will be unforgiving.

Be Warned: Body hugging designs such as the column dress can constrict your movement, including the ability to sit and dance as comfortably as you would wish on your big day.  If you want a highly-constructed column dress, you may consider one that has pleats or gathering in the back that will allow you to move more freely.



Happy dress hunting!

xoxo

Katherine