Portia and Scarlett PS26410C Couture Gown

While both styles hug the body, they differ significantly in construction and fit requirements. A fitted silhouette follows your natural curves closely from bust to hem, maintaining a relatively consistent width throughout—think sleek column. A mermaid silhouette, by contrast, is snug through the bodice and hips, then dramatically flares out at or below the knee, creating that signature "fishtail" effect. Fitted gowns typically offer more freedom of movement and are more forgiving through the hips and thighs, while mermaid styles require precise measurements and can be restrictive when sitting or dancing. If you have an athletic build or prefer ease of movement, a fitted column is often the better choice; if you want dramatic flair and have curves to showcase, mermaid delivers maximum impact.

Beaded gowns are designed to interact with light, so photography strategy matters. Work with your photographer to incorporate varied lighting angles—side lighting creates dimension and highlights the beadwork's texture, while backlighting can create a stunning halo effect. Movement is your friend: gentle turns, walking shots, and fabric flow all create dynamic reflections that static poses can't capture. For posed shots, angle your body slightly rather than facing the camera head-on to show depth and dimension in the beadwork. Avoid direct overhead flash, which can wash out intricate patterns; instead, request natural light or diffused lighting that lets each bead sparkle individually. Finally, request both close-up detail shots and full-length images—the craftsmanship deserves to be documented at every scale.