A silhouette in fashion terminology the overall shape of the garment. Shapes and silhouettes in fashion change over time. Many periods in fashion even have a distinct silhouette that we automatically associate with the clothing of that decade or era. Most comm types of silhouettes are:
A-Line
Th name 'A- Line' comes from the triangle (or "A" shape) between the narrow bodice and outer edges of the wide, ungathered skirt. The shape is a fitted chest and torso, however, the skirt is much less full. This creates a smoother, more flowing line from the torso to the floor, or an overall body shape like the letter "A." Suitable for a variety of fabrics, the A-line is versatile: It may or may not have a seam at the waist, which may be higher or lower than the natural waistline; and the close-fitting bodice may be strapless or have any type of neckline. A specialized variation of this cut is called the “princess” silhouette. Here, a single sheet of material is used to make the front of the dress from above the bust to the floor, creating a smooth flat shape at the front.This is great for short women because the seamlessness can give the illusion of height.
Ball Room
Introduced by Queen Victoria, reimagined by Dior in the 1950s, and never long out of fashion, this is the most romantic of all bridal silhouettes. It features a small waist (natural or dropped) and a voluminous skirt with petticoats. This style of dress, associated with fairy tales, is most suited to a formal wedding setting. It terms of design, it is fitted in the chest and down the torso, and then flares at the waist into a very full, often multilayered, skirt. This style is flattering on almost any body type, but is especially flattering for petite women, or full-figured women. On a pear-shaped woman, the full skirt can do much to camouflage large hips.
Empire
After the French Revolution, Napoleon's wife Josephine popularized this neoclassical dress with a very high waist; the sheer materials she chose caused a sensation.This dress has a waist line which is raised to directly beneath the bust, with a skirt that may be straight, slightly flared, or even as wide as an A-line from the raised-waist down.The cropped bodice of the Empire style flatters the small-breasted woman but not a more buxom bride; the raised waist creates a long line, ideal for a petite bride. This dress is particularly recommended for women who do not have a defined waist, but is not recommended for women with a pronounced hourglass shape.
Sheath
The sheath was popularized in the 1950s by Marilyn Monroe.This slyly constructed silhouette is used to refer to dresses that are form-fitting from the bust through the length of the thighs.This body-hugging profile is artfully sculpted with darts, tucks, and seams. The effect will differ depending on the weight and drape of the fabric. A great choice for a tall, slim-hipped woman, the sheath is equally becoming to a petite, slender bride. Avoid this style if you have wide hips but narrow shoulders.This is generally recommended for thin women who have gentle to no curves. Curvy, full-figured women or short women should avoid this silhouette because it hugs.
Trumpet or Mermaid
A trumpet dress hugs the body at the top and through the hips but jets out into a fuller skirt at the bottom. This style is also referred to as mermaid.The mermaid silhouette is designed for women who have flattering curves that they want to accentuate. Because of its emphasis on leg and torso length, it is not recommended for women who are short.
Sources:
www.ehow.com
www.marthastewartweddings.com
