The Style Me Pretty Glossary of Wedding Dress Fabrics

Picking the perfect wedding dress is no easy task; you have a million things to consider, including the silhouette, overall feel and, of course, the fabric. You don't want to wear a heavy, taffeta ballgown in the heat of summer, or a delicate chiffon sheath in the the cold of winter. If you keep in mind your wedding date, venue and aesthetic, this guide will help you find your dream dress for your dream day.

Alencon Lace

Named for the region in France where it's originated in the 16th century, Alençon is sometimes called the "Queen of lace" for its luxe look. The French style features a distinct floral pattern re-embroidered along the edges with a corded detail for an expensive, 3-D effect.

Brocade

With a name derived from the French word meaning " to ornament," it's no surprise that this heavy Jacquard-woven fabric featuring a raised pattern is typically reserved for more elaborate and glamorous wedding gowns.

Chantilly Lace

Also named for its city of origin in France, Chantilly lace is known for its light, delicate and romantic nature thanks to a fine net base covered in an abundance of flowers and ribbon details.

Charmeuse

Slinky and silky, Charmeuse is an incredibly luxurious fabric that skims the body. Typically used in sheath dresses, this light fabric drapes with ease, though its clingy nature isn't the most forgiving.

Chiffon

Soft, delicate and sheer, chiffon is often used in layers or as an overlay to achieve a romantic and dreamy weightless cloud-like effect.

Crepe

Recognizable for its crinkled appearance, this soft and thin fabric is created from a combination of twisted yarns, which is set in kinks through a chemical process.

Eyelet

Summery and fresh, eyelet is a cotton fabric with embroidered cutouts that give it a casual, breathable feel perfect for an outdoor summer wedding.

Netting

Most commonly used for illusion necklines and sleeves, this fine, sheer fabric creates a subtle sex appeal without baring it all.

Organza

Somewhere between chiffon and tulle lies organza. Stiffer than chiffon but more flowing than tulle, organza offers brides a light, ethereal and romantic effect with a more structured feel than chiffon.

Satin

Perfect for more structured gowns, satin, with its smooth finish and heavy sheen, is a more supportive fabric that makes it a good choice for any style of wedding dress.

Silk

The most popular and expensive fabric for wedding dresses, silk comes in a variety of textures ranging from raw to unbelievably smooth.

Swiss Dot

The sophisticated, bridal version of the polka-dot print, Swiss dot is named for its delicate dotted motif on a lightweight fabric and was originally handspun on looms in Switzerland.

Taffeta

For brides looking to make an entrance, a taffeta gown, with its recognizable "swoosh" sound, is the perfect choice. Slightly stiff, taffeta has a crisp quality to it and a lustrous sheen.

Tulle

With the volume and romance of a ballerina's tutu, tulle is an open-weave, sheer net-like fabric that gives a light-as-air feel to any gown.

Velvet

Ideal for a cold-weather wedding, velvet with its heavier weight and plush, soft texture adds warmth and drama to your look.