Wedding dress shopping and can’t understand a word coming out of your bridal stylist’s mouth? Not to worry—we’re here to lay it all out for you in our wedding dress fabric guide. There’s a lot to consider when picking the right wedding dress, and knowing what kind of fabrics you like and how they’re best worn can make the process less overwhelming.
Not all wedding dress fabrics are created equally, especially when it comes to seasonality. “People have said that bridal-wear is not seasonal, but to some degree that is not true,” “Just as you would choose to wear certain weight fabrics, patterns, or colors for autumn, spring, or summer, the same can be said about your wedding dress selection. But the rules over the years have definitely loosened up, and the bride has a plenty of choices.” However, to some extent, sartorial norms do still apply. A heavy satin dress remains an uncomfortable summertime choice just as a cotton sundress may seem out of place at an autumnal ballroom reception. “Of course, the bride has every right to do and choose what she prefers,” Omma adds. “But in my opinion, when it comes to your wedding dress and its importance to your day, I prefer to apply most of the old rules of propriety.”
Fabric choice tends to be a very personal one, but Omma will explain some fabrics for you as below listed:
Chiffon
One of the lighter fabrics, chiffon is often used as an overlay, in layers, or as an accent detail due to its sheer and transparent style. Made from woven silk, the matte fabric has a floaty and ethereal vibe perfect for the boho bride. Its light and airy structure makes it a great option for spring and summer weddings, while its weightless appearance lends itself to diaphanous silhouettes and goddess styles. The delicate fabric can be quite fragile, however, easily snagging, pulling, or fraying.
Georgette
Sheer and lightweight, georgette is spun from polyester or silk and has a crepe surface. Its soft silhouette makes it a perfect top layer in wedding gowns. The floaty fabric is ideal for feminine silhouettes that move with the body. It’s typically seen in the warmer seasons.
Organza
While sheer and lightweight like chiffon, organza holds a more structured silhouette making it ideal for warm-weather weddings. It’s traditionally woven from silk (though modern options can include synthetic fibers) and has a lustrous finish and crisp drape. It’s often used for layered gowns to add fullness, in ballgowns, trains, and veils as it doesn’t add weight. Perfect for whimsical, frothy looks and princess moments, the sheer material is the epitome of romantic, enchanted garden celebrations. But do be careful, as the delicate fabric is prone to snags and pulls.
Voile
Lightweight and breathable, voile is made from cotton or wool and is semi-transparent. Its casual look makes it perfect for informal weddings. The fabric has a natural drape that’s perfect for flowing styles without much structure.
Tulle
Characterized by a sheer, gauzy open weave similar to netting, tulle has an airy vibe but can be ruched to add structure. Very delicate, it is often used as a gown’s lining or, of course, as a veil. It comes in different weights and levels of stiffness. The quintessential bridal fabric has seen quite a rise in popularity in sexy illusion styles with barely-there sleeves, necklines, or cut-outs. The lightweight and usually inexpensive fabric can also be used in lace designs and can be worn year-round. Keep in mind that the fabric snags easily.
Rayon
A smooth fabric similar to silk, rayon is more elastic and affordable. This semi-synthetic fiber is lightweight and breathable, perfect for a summer wedding but can be worn year-round. While a plus in that it’s inexpensive, it does wrinkle easily. The durable fabric is a great option for draped styles or constructed designs.
