Shopping for your wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of your wedding planning journey. But with so many different terms for styles, fabrics, and silhouettes, the world of bridal fashion can sometimes feel overwhelming. At Solutions Bridal, we believe that knowledge is empowering, and we’re here to help you feel confident and informed as you search for your dream gown. To make your experience easier, we’ve put together the ultimate wedding dress glossary—a guide to key terms every bride should know before stepping into the boutique.
1. Silhouettes
The shape or outline of your wedding dress is called its silhouette. Understanding these basic silhouettes will help you communicate what style you envision for your big day.
- A-Line: A universally flattering silhouette where the dress fits closely at the top and gradually flares out from the waist, resembling the shape of an “A.”
- Ball Gown: The most classic and princess-like silhouette, with a fitted bodice and a voluminous skirt. Perfect for making a grand entrance.
- Mermaid: A curve-hugging silhouette that’s fitted through the bodice, waist, and hips, and then flares out at or below the knee, creating a dramatic, hourglass effect.
- Trumpet: Similar to a mermaid, but the flare begins higher on the leg, around mid-thigh, offering a slightly softer, more gradual shape.
- Sheath: A sleek and slim silhouette that flows straight down from the neckline to the hem, offering a modern and understated look.
- Empire: A gown with a high waistline that starts just below the bust and flows out into a soft, sometimes Grecian-inspired skirt.
2. Necklines
The neckline of a gown refers to the shape and style of the top of the dress around your chest and shoulders. Knowing the terminology can help you visualize the perfect top and the overall style of your gown.
- Sweetheart: A neckline that mimics the shape of a heart over the bust, offering a soft and romantic look. It’s a popular choice for strapless gowns.
- V-Neck: A neckline that dips down in the shape of a “V,” elongating the neck and creating a flattering silhouette.
- Halter: A neckline that wraps around the neck, leaving the shoulders exposed and drawing attention to your collarbone.
- Off-the-Shoulder: A neckline that sits below the shoulders, exposing the collarbone and part of the shoulders for an elegant, feminine look.
- Illusion: This neckline features sheer fabric (often tulle or lace) along the top of the gown, creating a barely-there look while offering coverage.
- Bateau: Also known as a boat neckline, this style follows the curve of your collarbone, creating a wide and high neckline that’s both classic and refined.
- Scoop: A rounded neckline that creates a gentle curve, showing off a little more skin while remaining modest.
3. Trains
The train is the portion of the dress that extends beyond the gown’s hemline, trailing behind the bride as she walks down the aisle. Trains can add drama and elegance to your look, and there are several different types to consider.
- Sweep Train: A short, subtle train that extends just a few inches behind the dress, creating a slight “sweep” effect. Perfect for brides looking for a bit of flair without the hassle.
- Chapel Train: A popular length that extends about 1-2 feet behind the dress. It’s formal, but still manageable for most brides to walk in.
- Cathedral Train: For a truly dramatic entrance, the cathedral train extends several feet behind the dress and is often paired with ball gowns or formal wedding attire.
- Watteau Train: This unique train attaches at the shoulders or upper back of the dress, flowing down behind the bride like a cape.
4. Fabrics
The fabric of your gown can dramatically impact its overall look and feel. Here are a few of the most common fabrics used in wedding dresses:
- Tulle: A lightweight, netted fabric often used to create full skirts or veils. It has a romantic, airy feel and is popular in ball gowns.
- Satin: A smooth, glossy fabric that feels luxurious and drapes beautifully. It’s a common choice for formal and elegant wedding gowns.
- Chiffon: A light, sheer fabric that creates a soft, flowy look. Chiffon is often used in destination or beach weddings for its effortless movement.
- Organza: Similar to tulle, but with more structure, organza is lightweight and stiff, giving dresses a full, voluminous shape while remaining delicate.
- Lace: One of the most beloved fabrics in bridal fashion, lace comes in many varieties, from intricate and delicate to bold and textured. Lace is often used to add romantic detailing to a gown.
- Crepe: A fabric known for its soft texture and flowing drape, crepe gowns are often simple and modern, offering an elegant and understated look.
5. Dress Details
Beyond the silhouette, neckline, and fabric, many brides fall in love with the details that make a gown truly unique. Here are a few key terms for popular bridal embellishments and features:
- Beading: Dresses that feature decorative beads sewn into the fabric for added sparkle or texture.
- Appliqué: Decorative elements, often lace or floral designs, that are sewn onto the fabric of the dress, creating dimension and texture.
- Embellishment: A broad term for any decorative detail on the dress, including crystals, pearls, sequins, or embroidery.
- Boning: A structural element sewn into the bodice of a dress to provide support and shape, often used in strapless gowns to keep them secure.
- Bustle: A feature added to the back of the dress that allows you to pin or tie up your train after the ceremony, making it easier to move around at the reception.
- Corset: A structured bodice that laces up, offering a custom fit by cinching the waist and providing additional support.
6. Bridal Veils
A veil is a traditional accessory worn by brides that can add elegance and mystery to the overall look. Here are a few common veil lengths and styles:
- Birdcage Veil: A short, vintage-style veil that covers part of the face and is often made of netting or lace.
- Fingertip Veil: A mid-length veil that extends to the bride’s fingertips, offering a soft and romantic look.
- Cathedral Veil: A dramatic veil that extends all the way to the floor, often matching the length of the gown’s train for a cohesive and elegant look.
Whether you're shopping for a timeless ball gown or a sleek modern sheath, having a solid understanding of bridal fashion terminology will make your dress shopping experience more enjoyable. At Solutions Bridal, our experienced consultants are here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you find a gown that matches your vision and fits perfectly.
Armed with this glossary, you’re now ready to step into your bridal appointment with confidence and excitement. Happy shopping!