Wedding Dress Fabric Guide
Wedding Gown Fabric Guide
Do you know the key differences between tulle and chiffon? Organza and taffeta? Lace and embroidery? All wedding dress fabrics have unique attributes when it comes to style, seasonality, and comfort—and there are a lot of options to consider! We’ve pulled together a guide to our most-loved gown fabrics (and embellishments, too!), with tips from our stylists to keep in mind as you start shopping.
Crepe
Feels Like: A lightweight fabric with a crisp surface that hugs the body without being clingy
Popular Silhouettes: Sheath
Perfect For: Modern brides seeking a clean, chic & comfy gown
Stylist Tip: Lends itself to easy alterations. Provides a clean slate that you can personalize with accessories.
Organza
Feels Like: A diaphanous fabric that provides volume and structure without being too heavy
Popular Silhouettes: Ballgown
Perfect For: Classic brides who want a touch of tradition mixed with romantic elegance
Stylist Tip: Lightweight fabrication gives a voluminous look while allowing ease of movement.
Chiffon
Feels Like: A sheer fabric that screams “floaty & frothy”
Popular Silhouettes: Ballgown, A-line, Two-Piece
Perfect For: A dreamy and ethereal look for the hopeless romantic
Stylist Tip: Creates a soft silhouette as it falls gently against the body.
Tulle
Feels Like: A fine, gauzy netting that can be layered or embellished for extra drama (hello, glitter tulle!)
Popular Silhouettes: Ballgown, A-line
Perfect For: A traditional, timeless, and exceptionally sweet aesthetic
Stylist Tip: Creates dramatic volume without extra weight. A good option for petite brides, as a raw edge tulle hemline is a cinch to alter for length.
Lace
Feels Like: A delicate and elaborate openwork fabric that can be used either as a trim or the main dress material
Popular Silhouettes: Mermaid, Fit & Flare
Perfect For: Wearing allover for a bohemian vibe or sparingly for touches of classical opulence
Stylist Tip: Travels well! We love it for destination weddings. Preserves well, too…did someone say instant heirloom?
Embroidery
Feels Like: Intricate threadwork that can be used as an embellishment
Popular Silhouettes: Embroidery works with any silhouette or fabric! You can also choose embroidered accessories, like a veil or sash.
Perfect For: Creating a truly one-of-a-kind wedding day look. (Psst...we LOVE the idea of embroidering your gown with hidden details, like your wedding date!)
Stylist Tip: Create dimension with embroidered details that float atop illusion tulle.
Beading
Feels Like: A glamorous assortment of beads that adds extra shine to any bridal look
Popular Silhouettes: Beadwork can be added to any gown or fabric!
Perfect For: Creating subtle shimmer (with just a scattering of beads) or a lavish aesthetic (with bold, allover beading)
Stylist Tip: Most beaded hemlines are tied off (aka secured with knots so the whole row won’t fall apart if it’s cut!) so you can easily alter for length! To elongate your silhouette, look for vertical beading.
Taffeta
Feels Like: A smooth, woven fabric perfect for statement skirts
Popular Silhouettes: Ballgown, A-line
Perfect For: Clean & dramatic volume for a regal look
Stylist Tip: Look for a close-fitting bodice to offset a voluminous ballgown skirt.
Satin & Charmeuse
Feels Like: Glossy fabrics (similar to silk) that are soft to the touch and drape ever-so-beautifully
Popular Silhouettes: Sheath, A-line
Perfect For: Brides who want a sophisticated yet minimalist look
Stylist Tip: Underpinnings are key to create a seamless foundation.