When most people think about bodices, they tend to think about corsets worn by Victorian women during the Renaissance Age. Whereas that might be a common perception, the truth is that the bodice, in today's age, is probably the most important aspect of any wedding dress, even more than the silhouette, which is the most immediately noticed part.



This is because the bodice is what gives the wedding gown its shape. Every woman who walks down the aisle wants to be able to show off the best body she can, and the style of bodice that she has on her dress might be just what's needed to help enhance that area, whether the bride needs help there or not.

There are nine different types of descriptions for the bodice of a wedding dress; they are:

Corset ? this is the number one type of bodice because it's the one that pulls in the body the most. Usually these are lace up, which allows one to have someone else help them to pull it tighter, thus enhancing the waist line as much as possible. At the same time, these can end up being the most uncomfortable for a long wedding day.

Midriff ? this bodice is primarily used for women who already have tiny waists, yet want to look even shapelier. These are very popular because often they allow some women to buy non-traditional wedding dresses and have them altered to look like a wedding dress.

Halter ? this bodice helps to create a very sexy wedding dress because it's sleeveless, and wraps around the back. Some women will wear a short jacket with it, or if they're comfortable go without one. Sometimes, this dress is also backless.

Drop waist ? this type of bodice works at making the bride's waist look longer in her wedding gown, and therefore more slimming. Instead of being around the rib cage, it usually stops just above the hips.

Surplice ? this is another very sexy style of bodice that enhances a woman's natural curves, thereby making the wedding dress stand out. It does this by cross-wrapping fabric either in front or back of the gown.

Tank ? this is becoming the most requested type of bodice for a wedding gown because it's built more for comfort, while still being flattering. It comes as a short, sleeveless top and has wide armholes. Many women wear a jacket or wrap with this style, which is very becoming. Any body type can wear a wedding dress with a tank bodice.

Asymmetrical ? another term for this type of bodice is one shouldered, and it's becoming very popular as one shouldered fashions have grown in other areas. It's comfortable and sexy at the same time, and often lends itself to being made in more colorful wedding gown styles than traditional bodice styles.

Princess Line ? it derives its name because it's what most people think of when they see princesses, such as Princess Diana, on their wedding days. It consists of two vertical, parallel seams that go from the bust to the hem of the wedding gown, giving an illusion of both being taller and slimmer.

Empire ? though the empire bodice can make any bride look beautiful, it's traditionally worn by petite brides. It enhances their bodies by ending just below the bust, then flaring out as a skirt from that point.

Adding the bodice that best enhances your body to the proper silhouette can make your wedding dress a killer on what should be the most important day of your life.