Summary
- A-line wedding dresses are the most traditionally worn shape
- The A-line shape is universally flattering on all body shapes
- The A-line bridal gown can be found in any fabric and neckline
- A-line shape works for any season, venue, and aesthetic
A-line wedding dresses are a must to try when you are wedding dress shopping.
This traditional and classic silhouette works for every bride and every body shape. If you love all things romantic and want your dream gown to be one of timeless elegance, this is the style you’ll want for your wedding day.
What Are A-Line Wedding Gowns?
Always figure-flattering, an A-line gown simply refers to the shape of the skirt being shaped like the letter A. The A-line wedding dress silhouette comes in a variety of styles but will always have:
– a defined waist: either natural waistline, drop waist, or basque waist. Drop and basque waists simply have the A-line shape starting down a bit farther on the hip. They are very flattering for plus size brides and will highlight just the right places for apple and pear shape figures
– a structured and tight fitting bodice, supportive of curvy brides with a fuller bust; provides a lovely illusion of curves on smaller sizes
– a subtle flare (slim A-line) which is a great choice for a petite bride to not overwhelm; or a full skirt (slim ball gown silhouette) for a more formal look or a touch of glamour
Why An A-Line
They are perfect bridal gowns for any venue, any theme, and in any season. The ideal choice for brides of all sizes and different body types.
A-Line Wedding Dress Fabrics
You will find A-line dresses in all fabrics such as:
- satin
- chiffon
- organza
- tulle
- crepe
- lace
Satin can be plain, beaded, or trending jaquard and lends beautifully to the bride who desires a formal, timeless wedding. Satin is one of the heavier fabrics and has a stiffness to it that will hold the shape perfectly over crinoline while you twirl the night away. Perfect for formal weddings and the Old Money aesthetic; or look at a satin a-line with a dramatic basque waist for a Castle Core aesthetic!
Chiffon is a beautiful lightweight fabric, clean and very flattering. A perfect choice for a summer wedding or a tropical destination location because of its light weight layers. Chiffon falls beautifully over the hips, can be adorned with lace applique or beading, and is the perfect twirling fabric.
Crepe is a fabric for the modern bride who wants softness, comfort, and clean lines. Similar to chiffon but heavier and more luxurious. Crepe A-line gowns are very popular wedding dress styles because of their stretch comfort, as well as the ease in accessorizing. Because it is so clean, you can easily customize into your dream dress by adding exquisite details such as lace, pearls, bows or jacket/topper accessories. Or keep it simple and just add your beautiful flower bouquet.
Layers of soft organza or tulle will lend to a more effervescent and youthful feel. These are more simple fabrics and may include elements like colorful lace appliqués and ruffles on a flowy skirt creating a whimsy effect. This style works well for a country, wildflower garden, or barn wedding theme. Because organza and tulle make for such pretty, lightweight wedding dresses, these are ideal for effortless elegance and youthful excitement of brides-to-be.
An elegant lace A-line dress with unique design details such as layering or 3D floral lace motifs will look perfect anywhere whether on the beach, in the vineyard, or even a museum. Lace is also the perfect dress fabric to add a matching cathedral veil for an unforgettable look.
Back in style now are a number of beautiful A-line lace dresses in the vintage wedding gown style and they are perfect for unique themes like Art-Deco or Hollywood glam! Like Charlotte by Wtoo – a Chantilly A-line with it’s basque waist lace bodice making the lower half look the trending bridal separates, but is not!
Are There Options?
Yes!! If these ideas weren’t enough to persuade you that A-line is the right style, consider this. What if you had two dresses in one? What if your personal style is a sheath gown, but are thinking it might not be ‘bridal’ enough?
Enter the detachable skirts!
This accessory is the perfect choice to get two different wedding dress styles in one. These can be worn over column, trumpet, or even mermaid wedding dresses! Have the fuller, a-line skirt for the ceremony and formal photographs, and then remove it for the reception.
These detachable skirts were such a good idea that they are now made to match with almost any dress – even short wedding dresses can have a full A-line over skirt!
Different Necklines On A-line Wedding Dresses
A-line dresses are also made with every neckline:
- high neckline
- Halter
- Strapless – straight across, scoop, sweetheart, plunge
- V-neck
- Square
And different strap/sleeve options:
- spaghetti straps
- shoulder straps
- off the shoulder sleeves
- cap sleeves
- long sleeves
If you like detachable accessories, consider some of our favorite features: detachable Juliet, bishop or bell sleeves to elevate to the ultimate romantic look.
One of the reasons this dress shape is so popular is not only because it is the most traditional, but because it is versatile and flattering on all body types from petite to plus size! The fitted bodice highlights and defines the waist and flares out over the hips creating a balanced silhouette. This shape is different from a ball gown. Ball gowns have a defined waist, but its shape is much more rounded. Where the A-line style gradually gets wider, the ball gown wedding dress flares from the waist.
As you can see, there are many different styles to this gorgeous wedding dress silhouette! These are some of the new 2025 dresses with the best features, try them on to see if the A-line shape is the style for you.
Not sure? Come in to Darianna® Bridal & Tuxedo to see our stunning collection! We have a great selection in a size range 4-30, from petite to plus size wedding gowns at affordable prices. Buy new or off-the-rack from our ready to wear bridal dresses. Our friendly and personal stylists will help you find your perfect wedding dress!
Advice: Keep an open mind while shopping for the gown for your special day. You never know which dress will speak to you and if one does – try her on!
Need more info on wedding dress styles, tuxedos, suits, color palettes, or planning in general? Reach out to us and we will be happy to help!