There are so many dresses and so many styles. You might start to feel overwhelmed seeing all those gowns because you don't know where to start. Don't worry; most brides feel this way, which is why dress shopping, while the most exciting and emotional part of the preparation, is also the most dreaded task on the checklist.

Before you start your search, one thing to understand is that we all come in different sizes and shapes so what looks good on your best friend might not be the best style for you. Knowing what kind of silhouettes are most flattering for your body type will make this process a lot easier. A good rule of thumb is to accentuate your favorite body part whether it's your beautiful décolleté, small waist or your womanly curves. Also, keep in mind: this source is an excellent guideline, but it's just that-go with the dress that you love and feel most confident and beautiful in! After all, you will be the one walking down the aisle in this dress.

• Straight: long and lean, little to no curves
• Pear: narrow shoulders, small chest, small waist, curvy hips
• Hourglass: curvy in all the right places (bust and hips), small waist
• Circle: narrow shoulders, slender legs, wide around the stomach
• Inverted Triangle: Broad shoulders, chesty, small waist, no hips

Ball gown: princess style that poofs out from waist down. Perfect for: Pear/Circle body type - this style hides the stomach and hips, while accentuating neckline.

Wedding Dress: Vera Wang; Poto: Sarah Kate Photography

A-line: similar to ball gown but skirt is more flared than poofy. Perfect for: Straight/Pear/Hourglass/Circle/Inverted Triangle body type - this style is flattering on most brides.

Wedding Dress: Abed Mahfouz

Sheath: skims the body and falls straight down to the ground. Perfect for: Straight - this style is best on slim and tall brides.

Wedding Dress: Rosa Clara

Trumpet: hugs the body and flares out above the knee, creating a trumpet silhouette. Perfect for: Straight/Hourglass/Inverted Triangle - this style will hug the body and accentuate the hips.

Wedding Dress: Setlla York

Mermaid: hugs the body and flares out below the knee, creating a mermaid silhouette. Perfect for: Hourglass - this style will flatter the curvy brides features.

Wedding Dresses: Winnie Couture

Empire waist: high waisted; waist line sits right below bust. Perfect for: Circle/Pear/Petite - this style will elongate the body and draw the attention up.

Wedding Dress: Pronovia

With these tips, I hope you will use it as a reference while shopping for your perfect dress but remember that it is only a guideline. Some additional tips that'll enhance your experience is to go with your makeup and hair done. It doesn't have to be professionally done, but it'll help you imagine what you'll look like on the big day. And remember to have fun! Enjoy these special moments - good luck!