Wedding Dress Fabrics

Regardless of whether you choose a wedding gown off the rack or have it made to measure, your selection of fabric can make a big difference to the overall look and feel of your wedding dress.  Below is a list of the most common fabrics, so that you can speak with confidence in bridal shops or with wedding dress seamstresses.

• Brocade: a rich, heavy fabric with a raised design, generally with gold or silver threads on a satin weave background; popular for period-style wedding dresses where the bodice and skirt is made of damask or brocade.
• Charmeuse:  A semi-lustrous, lightweight satin, less shiny than regular satin; a good choice for draping or if you want fluidity of movement.
• Chiffon: Semi-transparent, fine fabric with a very soft finish; feminine and elegant, perfect for draping, and for veils, sleeves or layers over other fabric.
• Crêpe: A lightweight and versatile fabric perfect for draping; suitable for after five cocktail dresses, bridesmaid dresses and evening gowns.
• Crêpe de Chine: a light, shimmering silk material from China; a superb choice for a romantic style wedding gown.
• Damask: similar to brocade, but of a lighter weight.
• Duchess satin: a lustrous, heavy fabric made from a combination of silk and rayon; perfect for traditional wedding dresses.
• Organza: Stiffer than chiffon, this fabric is often used for multi-tiered skirts.
• Satin: Glossy on one side and dull on the other.  An elegant and extravagant fabric.
• Shantung: A rough texture similar to raw silk with an uneven surface and luminous quality; is made form a combination of thick and thin yarns.
• Silk: Luxurious and strong, a natural fibre made from the cocoon of silkworms.
• Taffeta: Crisp, plain-weave light fabric which can be either shiny or matt in finish.  It makes a rustling sound with movement.
• Thai silk: a smooth, light and tactile fabric that looks best made-up in simple stylish gowns.
• Tulle: a fine net; the popular choice for wedding veils or trains.

For ideas and inspiration, Brides.com has an amazing image gallery of the latest bridal gown designs to inspire you. Go on, have a look and start dreaming!

Main image by Samm Blake Photography.