Have you realized that your wedding day will be the most concentrated day of photos and memories in your entire life? Hopefully so, and you are taking the proper steps to insure that everything is perfect.

Especially the dress that you will wear for that most important celebration, and all those photos... it should be the ideal shape, color, and style that is most flattering to you. So where do we begin? How about let's analyze your specific body and height. For instance, if you are 5'5 or shorter, a big, voluminous skirt is probably going to be overwhelming for your stature. Something in a moderate to slimmer silhouette is going to elongate your shape, and make you appear taller, and slimmer. If you are heavy in the hips and thighs, you want a dress that skims over the area, rather than clinging to emphasize them. A princess shape that fits at the waist and then flares out away from the hips and thighs. The same with a fuller bust line... the empire silhouette with stitching under the bust draws attention to that part of the body, and would be the wrong choice for a bride who is bigger on top than bottom. And, a wise choice for someone who is smaller in the top... Are your upper arms pretty and toned, or a little thick and chunky? If the latter is true, stay away from strapless and bare arm looks... A lace sleeve or bolero jacket would conceal those little flaws, and be the most flattering. The same is true if you are prone to blemishes on your back, shoulders, or upper chest. A sheer panel of illusion or lace will minimize those little trouble areas.

And what color would be best? There are many shades of bridal gowns from stark white, to vintage ivory, with many shades in between. Again, analyzing your specific skin tones and hair color is the answer. Dark brunettes, true blondes, and black haired brides generally look best in white, while medium blondes, light brunettes, and redheads look best in shades of ivory... It has to do with the contrast or compatibility of the hair, and complexion with the shade of the dress. And by now, you are probably ready to panic... because you have never thought this much about your hair, skin, body, etc. That's why it's best to go to an expert that does this for a living. You don't try and repair your car or plumbing, do you? Same concept... get an expert that knows what works with different proportion, coloring, etc.

And, be sure you get advice and continued assistance from a bridal consultant that will not only analyze what's best for you (including your budget), but that will be with you through the entire process, until you walk down that aisle. Yes, there are experts that come to the church, bring the gowns, steam them, adjust straps, whatever is needed to have the most beautiful You possible! They are there the moment you start down the aisle, to be certain everything is just so. We asked Amy of Patrecia for Brides to answer these questions "What is the best silhouette for most figures?"

"what colors work for blondes, brunettes, etc..." What do you see in fashion trends?
Amy Fletcher, Bridal Specialist for Patrecia for Brides told us, "Today's hottest and most flattering gown silhouette has a draped bodice that enhances many body types." Swarovski crystals are adding more glamour to the traditional white and ivory colors; however shades of candlelight and rum pink are climbing the charts with today's contemporary bride.