Pear-shaped brides, fitted dresses?

Firstly let me say you have a great figure ! Totally get how you feel about empire line dresses ! I'm a lot bigger than you and look like I'm about to drop triplets in that style haha x have you considered a fishtail shape dress, I've found this shape to be very flattering especially when you've got hips &a bum. Budget was important to me so a trad bridal shop was out the question. Have you thought about a bridal outlet store ? Lots of choice. Also there is a designer in aflecks palace in Manchester who makes fab dresses price is under £200. I was tempted to buy on lone but got put off as I was on such a budget if it wasn't right I'd be stuck with no dress. I think you will defo find something beautiful !! Good luck xx

I am a similar shape to you and fitted dresses looked much better on me than I expected. I tried one on to rule it out and ended up feeling more confused! I went for a ballgown in the end but I'm sure there'll be something out there for you in the style you want.

I was going to suggest A-line until I read where you said you don't want that. I would suggest looking at fishtail dresses.

I would also not give up yet on the bridal shops. I found my dress at one, it was a (A-line, heh) sample in my size and only cost £250 (new £750). I also tried another dress which was also a sample at £250 which was lovely too, just not as nice as my dress, so there are definitely options out there. Maybe phone around to find out if any are having sample sales.

I also was really impressed with the bridal shop I went to by how many dresses they had under £1000 - I expected most to be over, but almost all of the ones they had were under £1000. Probably because it wasn't a super posh shop and they cater to the budget of people shopping there... But I really preferred that to a really posh boutique.

I'm an hour glass verging on pear shaped. OH feels the same way about me wearing fitted dresses! My mum HATES the idea though. Doesn't want "people looking at me like that" which makes little sense since it's my wedding, but it's fine to go out to a nightclub in a formfitting dress?

I'd say try it anyway. I did, and I think they're lovely on! You can get some beautiful fitted dresses that have a more see through layer going out in an a-line so it's a bit more subtle.

Have you tried looking at prom dresses instead? As soon as you put the word bridal on anything it goes through the roof!

Wow you have an amazing figure! I think a fitted dress would definitely suit you, especially a fishtail/mermaid as it will highlight your tiny waist x

I am pretty much the same shape as you - hourglass verging on pear shaped (but shorter probably). I agree with other posters that if you want to go for a fitted style, a fishtail or mermaid dress looks best. I did a bit of extra padding with a strapless wonderbra and a belt to emphasise the waist too.

You've a gorgeous figure. Don't blame you for wanting to show it off!

Looking at your body shape, I definitely think you can pull off a mermaid wedding dress. We have designed mermaid wedding dresses for ladies with pear shapes quite a number of times. It may be an idea to have more of the detail around the bodice so it has the illusion of balancing you out more. Do you see what I mean?

I have a similar shape i would say, i love mermaid dresses i will show you mine to put your mind at rest i have quite large hips, small waist and small top half, the dress needs altering on my chest and lower leg but you get the picture

Oops it's on its side!

I.am a 10 top and 14 bottom and this is me the shop sample of my dress. The one in the pic is a 10. I ordered a 14 to ensure it went over my hips and that I could sit down and the seamstress just altered.the bodice to fit my smaller top half.

H2b loves my curves.... Just as well because they ain't going nowhere haha!

Don't shy away from a fitted dress....the right style and fit will be amazing on you.