Dress Fabrics

Save article to scrapbook »

Inlighten Photography

Your wedding dress is sure to be the most extravagant dress you’ll ever wear, so make sure you know exactly what fabrics you want before you start your gown search.

Silk is a natural fibre that has a natural shine, soft texture and comes in many forms – from smooth Thai to textured Dupion silk. Silk is ideal for structured gowns, beading and embroidery.

Lace is romantic and feminine, it is also wonderfully flexible. Lace can be made from cotton, polyester or nylon and is great for embellishing your wedding gown, Chantilly lace is perfect when placed on top of a contrasting colour. Guipure lace is ideal for making delicate sleeves.

Georgette and chiffon are lightweight, sheer fabrics that are made from either silk or polyester. These fabrics are beautiful as overlays, wraps, sleeves and inserts.

Organza is also a sheer fabric but is stiffer. It’s texture makes this fabric perfect when paired with embroidery and beading. It is also great for layered panels as well as overlays and wraps.

Brocade has a patterned, embossed effect woven into it. It is a heavy material that has a vintage, romantic air.

Crepe is a soft fabric that has a wrinkled texture and is stunning when used for panelling, layering or even bodice detail.

Satin is a tightly woven silk and is a favourite because of it’s lustre. Beware though, it is an unforgiving fabric, so is best used over a structured bodice.

Tulle is a much stiffer fabric, but has a similar look to organza. It is often used under the skirt to give it body, but often you will see full skirts made from Tulle – giving a tutu like appearance.