Your wedding day attire should be determined by the theme, time of day, location and level of formality of the ceremony and reception. An evening event in a grand ballroom with a seated dinner and an orchestra calls for equally impressive attire; whereas for an outdoor afternoon wedding detailed with pots of wildflowers, food fresh off the grill, and a lively band, a smart suit for him and a white sundress or informal wedding dress for her would be charming. A bride's hair and makeup also influence the overall effect.

You'll want to start shopping for your dress as soon as possible: Make your final decision-and place an order-at least six months before the wedding. This will allow plenty of time for fittings, alterations, and coordination.

Involve your mother, maid of honor, or a close friend to help you choose the style. This is one of the most important decisions of your wedding, and you’ll need good advice to make the right pick. Take your time and make a choice when you're ready. If your maid of honor or a bridesmaid will bustle your wedding gown after the ceremony, she should attend your final dress fitting, so the seamstress can show her the technique.

To attain the perfect fit of designer wedding dresses, it's essential to determine the most flattering shape for your figure. Not only will you feel more comfortable on your wedding day, but you'll look more beautiful than you ever expected.

Wedding dress silhouettes fall into these basic categories:

Ball Gown
The most traditional of all categories, the ball gown is typified by a full bodice and a waistline that leads to a full skirt. Don't think that ball gowns or corset bodices are only for closet Cinderellas. This versatile silhouette is perfect for drawing eyes to your face, collarbones and waist -- and hiding troublesome hips.

Empire

The hallmark of the empire style gown is a high waistline (right under the bust) which falls to a slimmer skirt.

A-Line

The most figure-flattering silhouette, the A-line is perfect for brides looking for a slimming shape that can hide a few flaws. This silhouette is a favorite of the top couture designers. An A-line or Princess shape features vertical seams flowing from the shoulders down to a flared skirt (creating and inverted "V" -- or "A" -- shape.

Sheath

Minimal. Modern. Flawless. For a chic, body-conscious silhouette, look no farther than the smooth lines of a sheath. The sleek sheath silhouette closely follows the line of the body. One of the most demanding silhouettes to wear, sheaths look best on brides who commit to full-body fitness.

Mermaid

This sexy silhouette is for curvy brides who don't mind showing off their shape. One of the season's hottest look, mermaid gowns are showing up in the collections of top designers