The Complete Guide to the Best Wedding Dress Fabrics

Your wedding dress is not just a garment; it's a symbol of your unique style and a reflection of your personality on your special day. One of the crucial aspects that will define the overall look and comfort of your wedding dress is the fabric you choose. Different fabrics can completely transform the appearance and feel of a dress. So, let's explore some of the best fabrics for various wedding dress styles to help you make an informed decision.

Lace Wedding Dresses

Nothing exudes timeless elegance and romance quite like lace. Its delicate and intricate patterns add a touch of sophistication to any wedding dress style. Lace can be used as an overlay to add a subtle hint of texture or as the main fabric for a more classic look. Whether you opt for fitted or flowing silhouettes, lace is a versatile choice that will enhance the beauty of your dress.

Here are some different types of lace that are often used in wedding gowns:

Alençon Lace: This is a type of needle lace that originated in Alençon, France. It is often used on wedding dresses for its delicate, intricate designs and heavy detailing.
Chantilly Lace: Named after the city in France, this handmade bobbin lace is known for its fine detail and abundant use of motifs like flowers in its patterns. It's very soft and lightweight, making it a favorite for bridal wear.
Venise Lace: Originating from Venice, Italy, this type of lace is heavier and more textured than others. It features intricate designs with a 3D effect and is commonly used in winter or vintage-style wedding gowns.
Guipure Lace: This is a type of bobbin lace that connects motifs with bars or plaits rather than net or mesh. It is heavier and gives a bold, dramatic look to the gown.
Corded Lace: Also known as Alençon lace, this lace is outlined with a cord to give it a 3-dimensional effect. The cord gives the lace a raised, outlined effect and it is often used in bridal gowns to add texture and depth.
Point d'Esprit Lace: This is a type of machine-made lace that has small, dotted patterns woven into a fine net background. It's often used for veils and overlays on wedding gowns.
English Net Lace: This type of lace is made by embroidering patterns onto a light and open net. It has a romantic and airy feel, which is perfect for bohemian or summer wedding gowns.
Brussels Lace: Made in Belgium, this lace is known for its high quality and detailed design. It often features images of flowers and scrolls and is a luxurious choice for a bridal gown.
Brocade Lace: This is a heavy and thick fabric with patterns that are usually woven into the fabric. It's often used for structured gowns and winter weddings due to its weight.
Duchesse Lace: This is a type of bobbin lace with floral motifs that are often connected by large spaces rather than dense netting. It's a traditional choice for classic and romantic wedding gowns.

Tulle Wedding Dresses

If you've always dreamed of a fairytale wedding with a princess-style gown, then tulle is the fabric for you. This lightweight, sheer material creates a full and voluminous skirt that is nothing short of magical. Perfect for ballgown designs, tulle will make you feel like a true princess on your big day.

Here are some different types of tulle often used in wedding gowns:

Silk Tulle: This is a luxurious type of tulle made from silk. It's very soft and falls closely to the body. It is more expensive than other types of tulle and is often used in high-end gowns and veils.
English Net Tulle: Also known as bridal illusion, English net tulle is made of polyester and is very soft with a fluid drape. It's commonly used in bridal veils because it holds its shape well.
Illusion Tulle: This is a fine, light tulle that is nearly transparent, which gives it its name. It's often used in sleeves, veils, and overlay details on gowns.
Nylon Tulle: This is the most common type of tulle used in wedding gowns and veils. It's stiff and holds its shape well, making it ideal for more structured designs, such as ball gown skirts and decorative veils.
French Tulle: This type of tulle is softer and finer than regular tulle. It has a delicate drape and is often used in more luxurious and high-end gowns.
Swiss Dot Tulle: This tulle has small dots incorporated into the netting, often in a polka dot pattern. It's frequently used for veils and as an overlay for bridal gowns.
Point d'Esprit Tulle: This is a type of tulle that has a dotted pattern, similar to Swiss dot tulle, but the dots are more incorporated into the weave of the fabric, creating a more textured appearance.
Metallic Tulle: This is a tulle fabric with a metallic finish. It can add a subtle shine to a bridal gown and is often used in accents or as an overlay.
Glitter Tulle: Glitter tulle is a type of tulle that has glitter applied to it. It adds a sparkling effect to the dress and is often used in layers or overlays.
Embroidered Tulle: This type of tulle features embroidery, which can range from simple floral patterns to intricate, elaborate designs. It's often used for overlays, adding detail and depth to a gown.

Satin Wedding Dresses

For those seeking a timeless and luxurious wedding dress, satin is the go-to choice. Its smooth and glossy finish exudes elegance, making it perfect for more formal weddings. A classic satin gown will never go out of style and will ensure you look effortlessly elegant as you walk down the aisle.

Here are some different types of satin often used in wedding gowns:

Duchess Satin: This is a heavyweight, luxurious type of satin that's often used in structured gowns because of its weight and sheen. It's commonly used in ball gowns and A-line dresses.
Charmeuse Satin: Charmeuse is a lightweight, soft, and lustrous satin with a more fluid drape than duchess satin. It's perfect for bias-cut dresses and has a "clingy" nature that makes it a favorite for more form-fitted gowns.
Crepe Back Satin: This type of satin has a glossy sheen on one side and a crepe texture on the other. The textured side is often used on the exterior of the gown for a less shiny, but still elegant, look.
Mikado Satin: Mikado is a type of blended satin, usually a mix of silk and synthetic fibers. It's heavier than traditional satin, making it ideal for structured gowns that require more form.
Satin-Faced Organza: Satin-faced organza is a lightweight, sheer fabric with a satin face. It's often used in layered skirts, sleeves, or overlays on wedding gowns.
Peau de Soie Satin: Also known as "Duchess Satin," it has a smooth, soft feel with a low sheen. It drapes beautifully and is a popular choice for wedding dresses.
Slipper Satin: A medium-weight satin that's slightly less shiny than other types, but still has a beautiful sheen and a very smooth surface. It's often used in vintage-style wedding gowns.
Faille Satin: Faille is a structured fabric with subtle ribbing. It's less shiny than other types of satin and has a soft, smooth finish that's ideal for wedding gowns with a more understated look.
Double-Faced Satin: This satin has a glossy sheen on both sides. It's a heavier fabric that's often used in belts, ribbons, and other accents on wedding gowns.
Shantung Satin: This type of satin has a rough, textured feel with a subtle sheen. It's similar to raw silk, making it a popular choice for brides who want a sophisticated, less glossy look.

Chiffon Wedding Dresses

If you're envisioning an ethereal or bohemian-style wedding dress, chiffon is your ideal fabric. This lightweight and flowy material create a dreamy, soft look that complements a free-spirited bride. Its draping properties make chiffon a popular choice for destination or beach weddings.

Here are some different types of chiffon used in wedding gowns:

Silk Chiffon: This is a very lightweight and sheer chiffon with a soft finish. It drapes beautifully and is often used in layered skirts, sleeves, and overlays on wedding gowns. It is the most luxurious type of chiffon.
Polyester Chiffon: This type of chiffon is made from synthetic polyester. It's a more affordable option than silk chiffon and has similar properties in terms of drape and sheerness. It's often used in budget-friendly wedding gowns.
Rayon Chiffon: Rayon chiffon is made from synthetic rayon. It's more lustrous than polyester chiffon and has a feel and drape closer to silk chiffon.
Crinkle Chiffon: This type of chiffon has a crinkled or pleated texture that adds visual interest to a gown. It can be made from silk, polyester, or rayon.
Printed Chiffon: Printed chiffon can feature a variety of prints or patterns. While not common in traditional white wedding gowns, it's occasionally used in non-traditional wedding gowns or in accents.
Double Georgette Chiffon: Technically a type of georgette fabric, double georgette shares many properties with chiffon and is sometimes categorized as such. It's semi-sheer, drapes well, and is heavier than regular chiffon, making it ideal for gowns that require more structure while still retaining a flowing look.
Metallic Chiffon: This chiffon is woven with metallic threads to give it a subtle shimmer. It's often used in accents or as an overlay for a sparkling effect on the gown.
Chiffonette: Chiffonette is a very fine type of chiffon that's often used in veils and delicate overlays on wedding gowns.

Organza Wedding Dresses

When you desire a wedding dress with volume and drama, organza is the fabric to consider. This sheer, lightweight material adds fullness to skirts, making it ideal for creating a grand entrance. Organza is particularly well-suited for summer or outdoor weddings due to its airy nature.

Here are some different types of organza used in wedding gowns:

Silk Organza: Silk organza is the most traditional and luxurious type of organza. It has a slight sheen and a stiff texture, making it perfect for structured dresses.
Polyester Organza: This is a more cost-effective alternative to silk organza. It's just as crisp and sheer as silk organza, but it's more durable and easier to clean.
Crystal Organza: This type of organza is more transparent than standard organza and has a high sheen. It's often used for overlays and in dresses with a fairy-tale quality.
Mirror Organza: This organza has a metallic finish, giving it a reflective quality, hence the name. It's often used in more modern or unique wedding dresses.
Sparkle Organza: This type of organza has a glittery finish. It can add a subtle sparkle to the dress and is often used in layers or overlays.
Embroidered Organza: Embroidered organza has a pattern, such as flowers or vines, stitched into it. This can add a unique touch to the gown.
Printed Organza: This organza features printed designs. It's not as common in traditional white wedding gowns, but it's occasionally used in non-traditional or colorful wedding dresses.
Organza Satin: Also known as satin-faced organza, this fabric has the sheen and smoothness of satin with the stiffness and structure of organza. It's often used for full skirts and ruffles.

Crepe Wedding Dresses

Simplicity and elegance come together in crepe fabric. Soft and lightweight, crepe drapes beautifully and is an excellent choice for modern or minimalist wedding dress styles. A crepe gown will effortlessly flatter your figure and give you an air of sophistication.

Here are some different types of crepe often used in wedding gowns:

Silk Crepe: Silk crepe is a luxurious type of crepe with a slight sheen. It has a beautiful drape and is perfect for flowing, body-skimming wedding dresses.
Crepe de Chine: Crepe de Chine is a soft, lightweight crepe made from silk. It has a slightly pebbly texture and a beautiful drape, making it perfect for delicate, feminine wedding dresses.
Polyester Crepe: Polyester crepe is a more affordable alternative to silk crepe. It has a similar texture and drape to silk crepe but is more durable and easier to clean.
Crepe Georgette: Crepe Georgette is a type of crepe fabric that's sheer and lightweight with a crinkled texture. It's often used for layered skirts, sleeves, and overlays in wedding gowns.
Crepe Back Satin: Crepe back satin is a satin fabric with a crepe side. This allows designers to use both the shiny satin side and the textured crepe side in the design of the gown.
Wool Crepe: While not common in traditional bridal wear due to its heavier weight, wool crepe could be used in winter wedding gowns. It has a crinkled texture and a graceful drape, similar to other crepes.
Rayon Crepe: This type of crepe is made from synthetic rayon. It's more lustrous than polyester crepe and has a feel and drape closer to silk crepe.
Mousseline de Soie: Also known as silk muslin, this is a very lightweight, sheer type of crepe often used in delicate, flowy wedding gowns.

Mikado Wedding Dresses

If you prefer a contemporary and structured look, Mikado is the fabric you should explore. With a subtle sheen and a luxurious feel, Mikado is perfect for modern and architectural wedding dress designs. It adds an element of refinement and refinement to any bride's appearance.

Here are some different types of mikado often used in wedding gowns:

Silk Mikado: This is a blend of silk and wool that results in a fabric with a subtle sheen and a heavy weight. It's ideal for structured wedding gowns and is often used in ball gowns or A-line dresses.
Polyester Mikado: This synthetic variant is less expensive than silk Mikado but has a similar weight and sheen. It's a good choice for brides who want a luxurious look without the higher cost of silk.
Zibeline Mikado: This is a specific type of Mikado made from a satin weave. It has a long nap and is very smooth to the touch. Zibeline Mikado is known for its full-bodied drape and is often used in high-end gowns.
Mikado Satin: This type of Mikado has a glossy finish on the surface, which gives it a shiny appearance. This material is used when designers want to add a touch of glamour to their designs.
Printed Mikado: Printed Mikado can feature a variety of prints or patterns. While not common in traditional white wedding gowns, it's occasionally used in non-traditional or colorful wedding dresses for added visual interest.

Brocade Wedding Dresses

For brides who adore traditional or vintage styles, brocade is a fabulous option. This heavy and ornate fabric features raised patterns, creating a textured and regal look. If you want a dress that tells a story of timeless beauty, brocade can make that dream come true.

Here are some different types of brocade often used in wedding gowns:

Silk Brocade: This is a type of brocade made from silk. It's luxurious and often features intricate patterns woven into the fabric. The sheen of silk makes the patterns more pronounced.
Polyester Brocade: This type of brocade is more affordable than silk brocade. It has similar raised patterns and can be a good choice for brides who want the look of brocade without the higher cost.
Metallic Brocade: This brocade is woven with metallic threads to give it a shiny, reflective quality. It's often used in more glamorous or ornate wedding gowns.
Jacquard Brocade: While technically a type of weave rather than a material, jacquard brocade features intricate patterns that are woven into the fabric. It can be made with a variety of materials, including silk, polyester, or a blend of different fibers.
Chenille Brocade: This type of brocade has a soft, textured feel due to the use of chenille yarns in the weave. It can add a unique touch to a wedding gown.
Velvet Brocade: This brocade is made with a velvet pattern woven into the fabric. It's rich and luxurious, and is often used in winter or vintage-style wedding gowns.
Damask Brocade: Damask brocade is similar to other types of brocade, but it features reversible patterns, meaning that the fabric can be used on either side.
Spandex Brocade: This type of brocade includes spandex in the weave, giving it a slight stretch. It can be a good choice for more fitted wedding gowns that still want the rich, detailed look of brocade.

Choosing the right fabric for your wedding dress involves considering not only the style you desire but also the season and location of your wedding. Additionally, your personal preferences and comfort play a significant role. By selecting the perfect fabric, you can create a stunning and comfortable wedding dress that complements your individuality and makes you feel truly special on your big day. Schedule an appointment at our Orlando bridal shop to find the perfect dress!

The Best Fabrics for Different Wedding Dress Styles