A bridal gown is supposed to so perfectly mingle in it fashion sensibilities, sentiments, and splendor, that it is a challenge for a woman to choose the best one. The gowns generally come in five basic patterns known as Empire, Princess, Ball Gown, Mermaid, and Column.

In the pattern named Empire, there is a tight top portion supported with prominent necklines and sleeves. The bust portion can be kept highlighted or not, to suit the flow of the remainder of the dress. The flowing bottom portion starts just after the bust line, covering the body in waves of fabric. Not a single negativity of the figure is likely to get revealed if one goes in for this style.

The Princess style, known also as A-line, has a tight top but does not have a marked waistline. The top slowly widens in both directions to flow down and make the letter A. The pattern has a constricting and lengthening effect, giving the wearer the effect of a good height. The way the fabric flows, it can enhance the curves of a slimmer body, while its flares can cover up the unwelcome thicknesses of a not-so-perfect figure.

For those who want a fairy tale wedding, the Ball Gown would be the best choice, because the skirt portion puffs up like that of Snow White or Cinderella. The tight top portion can be modified in a variety of ways. However, the style suits only tall brides.

With the Mermaid style, the skirt portion starts only from knee onwards. Above knee the dress is skin tight, though there are options in neckline and sleeves. Since every ebb and tide of the body gets etched out on the dress, the wearer must have good curves to benefit from the dress.

The style that goes by the name Column turns the body into a beautiful caryatid. This body-hugger style, even with the movement restriction it entails, sits exquisitely well on those who have a shapely figure, even if they are short.

There is so much variety within these five basic patterns that there is sure to be something that suits every body type.