Draw a sketch of the human figure in an upright posture, adjusting its features at the waist, hips and bust to resemble your figure. Repeat the same sketch from the back to give you a view of both display sides of the dress. Alternatively, use a human template to draw the human figure and adjust its features, making sure you find a template that resembles your body shape. Alternatively, lightly trace the template onto a new piece of paper, and finalize its lines after making your modifications.
Define the waistline of the figure, to separate the upper part of the dress from the lower part, by darkening the waistline with your pencil.
Select the design of your dress from a previous wedding dress, or create a new design for yourself. Consider the theme of your wedding to make sure the design blends with your theme. Establish different parts of the design that you want for your body type. For example, an A-line design for a pear-shaped figure helps hide big hips, while a reasonably short dress shows off your legs.
Draw the lower part of the dress from the waist down. Sketch the dress with specific details of length and shape. Use one sketch for the front of the dress, and the other for the back; include the train, if your dress will have one.
Sketch an outline of the upper part of the dress on the figure, beginning with the neck design to the bust area down. Select your neckline carefully, as it creates a base for the rest of the upper body design. Draw another sketch on the second figure for the back of the dress. Refer to the front design when creating the back design, for continuity in design.
Mark zippers and buttons using a charcoal pencil; also add all other details, such as beadwork, corsages, and embellishments. Emphasize the folds on the lower part, the neckline and the waistline using darker lines.
Color your dress with crayons if you plan to wear a colored dress. Similarly, indicate the patterns on the dress if your design is patterned.
Make side notes indicating your preferred fabrics, types of zippers and buttons and any embellishments you want on your dress. Take measurements of your bust, waist, hips and height, then note them alongside your design.