THE A-LINE

The hourglass wasn’t Christian Dior’s only reinvention. His A-line hit big in 1955 and stayed with us. An A-line cut is a more modified form of hourglass, bringing with it refinement and understatement. Fitted through the bodice, the A-line can have a slight to moderate flair in the skirt. Dubbed by fashionistas as “The Deb Dress” it’s been one of the most popular silhouettes for the reason it flatters just about every figure type.
Variations of the A-line
Classic-Slightly flared, you see it everywhere; mostly with a strapless bodice in medium to heavy fibers. Stunning.
Princess-Fitted bodice flowing into a skirt that has two parallel vertical seams running up front and back; can have a slight to full flare in the skirt. Very flattering. Especially great for petites or any woman wanting to add height. Heavier brides benefit too from the vertical seams drawing the eye, up, up, up.
Trapeze-Loose fitting A-line that premiered in Yves Saint Laurent’s 1958 collection. Some versions have a lot more ease in the cut than others. Couture and bridal versions tend to look like classic A-lines with a little more slack in the torso area. Great for heavier brides.
Tent-Another smart choice for the heavy bride. Except you’ll rarely see it anywhere in today’s fashion, so you’ll have to have it custom made. This triangular gown hangs from the neck or a yoke, flaring way out at the hemline. Priscilla wore a to-the-floor version when she married Elvis.

Left and top gown by Amy-jo Tatum Bridal Couture. Photo by Bill Smoot Photography

Above photo Priscilla Presley's wedding to The King. She designed her own gown--a tent style.