The wedding gown lingo you need to know.
A-Line – A dress style that is slim on top, fitted through the waist, and flairs out at the bottom. It is a flattering style for most body types
Ballgown – A dress style that has a fitted top and a full skirt that often is held out with underskirts or crinolines.
Bateau neckline – A wide, open neckline that helps to make the neck appear longer.
Blusher veil – A veil that has a shorter hem in the front.
Brocade – A type of heavy woven fabric that is best for fall or winter weddings.
Bustle – A way to pull up the back train of a gown and attach it to the back of the dress just below the waistline.
Cathedral train – A long, formal train that is usually 6 to 7 feet in length. Often accompanied by a cathedral veil, a long veil that extends past the dress.
Chapel train – A popular dress train that extends from the waist. It is typically a manageable length of 3 to 4 feet.
Charmeuse – A lightweight type of satin material that is very flowing.
Chiffon – Sheer, lightweight fabric that is very sheer and flows nicely.
Crepe – Thin material that has a slight texture, often made of silk.
Elbow veil – A veil that is about elbow length. A very popular style that is easy to wear.
Empire – A popular dress style where the waistline is high- just below the bust.
Faille – This soft fabric has a slight sheen and is typically made of a silk or rayon blend.
Jewel neckline – A classic, round neckline that is higher than a scoop neck.
Mermaid – This dress style is tight through the torso and flares out just below the knee.
Organza – A semi-sheer fabric that is rather stiff so it holds its shape well for full skirts.
Portrait neckline – A open, slightly off the shoulder neckline that is perfect for framing a beautiful necklace.
Puddle train – Very popular style of train. The fabric gently falls into a small puddle in back and is not long.
Scoop neck – A neckline with a gentle round curve that shows a hint of cleavage.
Shantung – A shiny, lightweight fabric with a slightly nubby or irregular texture.
Sheath – A close-fit dress style that closely hugs the body shape
Spaghetti straps – Thin straps that may be made of the same or different fabric as the dress.
Strapless – A dress with no straps or sleeves. This is a popular style for bridal gowns because it is flattering to most body types.
Taffeta – A lustrous and crisp fabric that is usually made of silk or polyester. It is a common fabric used in wedding and bridesmaids dresses.
Train – A long length of fabric that is part of the wedding gown. Trains can be various lengths and sizes.
Tulle – Fine netting that is often used under skirts to make them stand away from the body for a full look.
Veil – Traditionally, the bride wear a veil over the face before the ceremony and the father of the bride pulls it up as he gives her away.