The centerpiece of your wedding planning is your wedding dress. It is usually the thing you look for and buy first. It sets the tone for the rest of the décor and sets the mood for your big day. Many women have an idea of what they want in a wedding dress; they may have pictured it as little girls. But most people find that shopping around for different styles is the best way to find the dress that makes them come alive. The style you loved as an eight-year-old may not be flattering on your adult body, so keep an open mind and try on some styles that you would not normally consider.

One of the most popular styles today is an off the shoulder wedding dress. From long sheaths to full skirted arrangements of tulle, the off the shoulder dress is a versatile and flattering style for many brides. If you are looking for an off the shoulder gown, try several different skirt varieties. While the poufy skirt may look great on the woman in the bridal magazine, it may be too much for you.

Here are some tips to remember when shopping for an off the shoulder gown:

• This style requires a nice line along the shoulders. If your shoulders slope a bit, this may not be the dress for you. Look instead for styles that add something to your shoulders without looking like football pads.

• If you have a tattoo or other distinguishing mark along your shoulder blades, it will show with most off the shoulder wedding dresses. If this doesn’t bother you, then no worries. But if you do not want grandma to see the results of that spring break when all your girlfriends got a little something to remember each other by, then opt for a dress that gives you more coverage in the back. You can still go for a low neckline that shows off your collarbone and décolletage.

• Wear some undergarments that you can use to try on the dresses. An off the shoulder gown will require a strapless bra, and maybe even a bustier if the dress is made of a delicate fabric that would show the bra’s elastic along your back. Also, if the sheath style if what you are looking for, remember to bring the correct underwear. If you are in great shape, go for the thong to avoid panty lines. But if you are like most women, you will want some more support than this, and a nice body shaper for the hips and upper thighs can really make a difference in the silhouette of the dress. Pick up these items and wear them with the dress you like before you make your final decision.

An off the shoulder dress that is right for your body type can be a romantic way to walk down the aisle and start your new life.