Wedding dress shopping can be confusing enough with sales assistants throwing around dress terms such as dropped waist A-lines and double bustle trains. Add in fabrics you aren’t familiar with and wedding dress shopping can be overwhelming!
The first thing to know when discussing fabrics is understanding the difference between fabric fibers and fabric finish. Most people think they are the same thing when in fact they are different. Fabric fibers are the actual material the fabric is made out of such as silk, polyester or rayon. Fabric finish is the way in which the fabric fibers are woven together to create materials such as chiffon, mikado and satin.
Here is a list of the wedding dress fabrics that you are most likely to come across when wedding dress shopping.
- Lace
- A fine open fabric of cotton or silk, made by looping, twisting, or knitting thread in patterns and used especially for trimming garments
Ever since Kate Middleton wowed the world with her vintage inspired lace gown, this fabric has been the preferred choice for bridal wear designers for the last 4 years. Its delicate, feminine and elegant floral designs offer a timeless look and is perfect for the bride who wants to opt for a vintage or bohemian look.
- Tulle
- A soft, fine silk, cotton, or nylon material like net, used for making veils and dresses.
Tulle is a soft, fluid and light weight fabric making it the ideal material for a bride who wants a full dress that isn’t heavy. It works particularly well in ruffles and is perfect if you want to go for a feminine, romantic look on your wedding day.
- Crepe
- A light, thin fabric with a wrinkled surface.
This matte fabric is great for draping and is used mainly for slimline figure hugging gowns. However due to it’s clingy nature it has a habit of showing lumps and bumps so make sure you invest in seamless underwear to ensure a streamline silhouette.
- Mikado Silk
- A stiff fabric with a soft sheen, usually made from a silk blend.
Mikado is a stiff fabric with a subtle sheen, which lends itself to structured, modern gowns. Usually made from a silk blend, it wrinkles less than 100% silk and is heavier too, making it a good option for a winter wedding.
- Satin
- A smooth, glossy fabric, usually made of silk.
Satin is most commonly thought of as silk however many bridal wear designers use man-made fabrics to offer a more affordable option. This soft shimmery fabric catches the light making it a stunning option for a formal evening wedding. Avoid wearing in warm weather as it will show nasty sweat marks!
- Chiffon
- A light, transparent fabric typically made of silk or nylon.
Light weight, fluid and easily draped, chiffon is commonly used for Grecian style, empire line dresses. A popular choice from brides marrying abroad in a warm country or on the beach.
- Organza
- A thin, stiff, transparent dress fabric made of silk or a synthetic yarn.
Organza is similar to chiffon but is stiffer making it a great fabric for ruffles and frills and presses nicely to create pleats.
