Bridal Materials

I don't know about you, but I really struggle with online shopping. I cant stand it, I like to be able to go into a lovely shop, have a look round, ask the shop assistant any questions I have then purchase my item there and then.  Old fashioned, perhaps, but I like to physically see what I am buying. This especially applies to when I am buying clothes.  We have all ordered a gorgeous looking outfit just for it to turn up and be made out of that horrible cheap material which is falling apart.  So Brides, please do not take this risk when buying your wedding dress!  This is most likely going to be the most expensive dress you ever purchase, you want something made beautifully using the best materials.  

Below I have compiled a guide to the most common bridal materials that you will encounter when wedding dress shopping. This will help prepare you when you go shopping and hopefully give you an idea of what material you like.

SILK

Silk in one of the most popular fabrics used for wedding dresses.  It is a natural fibre which actually comes from the cocoons of a silk worm. It is a luxurious fabric which has a natural shimmer and feels amazing to wear. The fabric is very versatile and is also durable making it suit for all seasons.  Silk is an expensive material, so it can put the cost up of a dress but it is worth every penny!

TAFFETA

Taffeta is made from silk or synthetic fibres.  It has almost a scrunchy effect and the stiffer the fabric the higher the quality.  It makes a great rustle sound as you move! It is what I would class as a traditional bridal fabric which is also great for colours. 

TULLE

If you want to look like a fairy princess on your day then tulle is probably the material for you.  Its a light fabric which has an open weave which makes it look like netting, in fact lots of brides refer to it as netting. Tulle is also what most veils will be made from.  A good quality tulle should not feel harsh to the touch, it should be soft and full of volume.  The major downside of tulle is that it is easy to snag on jewellery so keep that in mind when choosing accessories. 

Rosa Clara Alada has an incredible tulle skirt which is so soft to touch its like a cloud. 

CHIFFON

Chiffon is a light woven fabric which is incredibly sheer and has a weightless floaty look.  This has made chiffon the perfect choice for weddings abroad in hot climates. It is often used in layers to build up the skirt or can be used over another material.  As with tulle, this material can snag easily.

ORGANZA

I always think Organza is in the middle of Chiffon and Tulle.  It is sheer and light weight like Chiffon but it is stiffer like tulle.  It is a more structured material but because it is lightweight it is again a good choice for abroad weddings. 

LACE

Over the last few years it has all been about lace!  There are so many different types of lace that there is bound to be one that you love. Some of the more well known types include Chantilly, Alencon, Guipure, Corded and beaded.  I could write a whole blog on different laces alone.  

Blue by Enzoani Keaton - there is so many different laces to choose from you are bound to find one you love. 

CREPE/CREPE DE CHINE

I have to say that crepe is currently my favourite material. We are finding that this is also our brides preferred choice of material too.   This material is perfect for slim dresses as it creates a beautiful silhouette.  Not only does it have a luxurious feel but it consists of a delicate texture which gives it an exceptional drape.  I absolutely love this material!

This is only a brief guide as there is so many more materials out there but I think these will be the ones you will most likely come across.  If you want to actually see/feel the materials then please come into us and I will be happy to show you them.  

Enjoy dress shopping!

Lauren xxx