One of the biggest factors when it comes to the look of your wedding dress is the fabric. Dresses with a similar cut but made of different fabrics may lie completely differently on your body and give off a very different aesthetic. There is no one perfect dress fabric: they’re all going to excel in different circumstances. Lightweight, gauzy fabrics tend to be perfect for summer weddings or anywhere where heat is a concern. These fabrics also tend to lend themselves toward an ethereal fairytale feel. Heavyweight fabrics can be more luxe and glam and are great with dresses that benefit from more structure. These fabrics are perfectly suited to a winter wedding.
We’ve explored some popular fabric options for wedding dresses, divided up by fabric weights to help you understand some of the most popular options that you have to choose from. Keep in mind that modern wedding dresses may be made from many different fabric fibers and weaves. Talk to your consultant about your options!
Lightweight Fabrics
Charmeuse is a lightweight fabric with a pretty sheen that drapes better than most other lightweight fabrics and can work well for form fitting gowns. It will cling to every curve and can be great if you want a slinky gown.
Tulle is likely to show up in your wedding ensemble either either as a lightweight underlayer to fluff up your skirt or in your bridal veil. This sheer fabric is often layered over another fabric and will give it a more romantic feel.
Organza is a lightweight fabric but is a little more substantial and can serve as the main fabric for a summer-ready gown. Be aware that many lightweight fabrics may be more fragile and prone to rips and tears if you aren’t careful.
Heavyweight Fabrics
Satin is a durable fabric with a pretty sheen to it. This makes it very popular for winter weddings and luxurious indoor weddings (with plenty of air conditioning). Satin is great for holding shape and is great for dresses that require lots of structure. Satin made from silk fibers is beautiful, but keep in mind that real silk does not come in pure white so you’ll be getting an off-white or ivory dress. Velvet is an option that typically only comes up for winter weddings, as is the beautifully textured brocade.
Other Options
Some fabrics are more likely to be used as embellishments rather than being the primary fabric in a dress. Lace overlays or detailing are popular and beautiful patterns can give a dress great texture. Illusion fabrics are also a popular option for sections of modern wedding dresses. They are often used on the neckline, sleeves, or back of a dress which can make daring necklines more modest or to help a dress like correctly.
What kind of fabric are you thinking of wearing for your big day? Check out Fan C Design’s collection of wedding dresses, made with a variety of fabrics to suit any bride.