Bridal fashion: Deciphering wedding-dress styles

It seems that a wedding dress is no longer simply a wedding dress. In fact, to figure out what all the different terms mean when it comes to wedding dresses, you practically have to have a master’s degree in fashion. OK, that’s not entirely true, but it can be kind of daunting to figure out what type of dress you want. What is true is that your wedding dress can vary drastically depending on the type of wedding you have. For example, a ballgown wedding dress isn’t exactly the most appropriate choice for a beach wedding. Did those phrases confuse you? Here’s a primer in what all the terms mean:

Silhouettes (the shape of the skirt of the dress)

  • A-line/princess: This is the most popular type of silhouette and is flattering on nearly everyone. The dress is fitted through the hips, then flares out slightly into an A shape. It can be worn for any type of wedding, from very casual to formal, because it’s such a classic style.
  • Ballgown: If you want the princess look, this is for you. Ballgown dresses are similar to A-line dresses, but the skirt is much fuller and often layered with tulle. Ballgown dresses are most common in formal, elegant weddings. They are a very dramatic choice, but can convey an image of high-maintenance or a fussy bride. Additionally, ballgown styles aren’t ideal for everyone – it can overwhelm a shorter bride because your height doesn’t balance out the fullness of the skirt. This look is better suited for a slender or pear-shaped bride. A bride with a large bust will also look great in this style, but the top half of her body will easily balance out the bottom half of the dress.
  • Mermaid/trumpet : This style of dress is fitted through the top of the thighs or knee, then flares out in a dramatic fashion. This is a popular style of dress right now, though it bound to be a passing trend. Because the majority of the dress is very form-fitting, certain body types will want to avoid this style.
  • Sheath/column: This is the essential destination wedding dress. The dress has a narrow shape that flow naturally from top to bottom, following the curves of the bride. Lean figures will have the best luck in this type of dress because the form-fitting nature of the dress isn’t very forgiving.

Now anyone who has ever gone shopping can probably easily figure out what terms for other parts of the dress means – strapless, v-neck, halter, etc. Those aren’t too complicated. What is confusing is the different types of veils. After all, this will probably be the only occasion you’ll ever go veil-shopping.

  • Royal: This is the grandest of all types of veils, as it extends 10 feet beyond the bride’s waist for a sweeping train. Think about what royal families wear when they get married.
  • Cathedral: This type of veil is shorter than royal, but it still pretty significant for most brides. The cathedral veil extends about seven feet from the bride’s waist, about one foot past the bride’s gown on the floor. Make sure to remove it before the reception.
  • Fingertip veil: This type of veil is just how it sounds: A veil that extends to the bride’s fingertips. It’s the most commonly worn style because it’s very bride-like, but not as fussy as a cathedral veil.
  • Elbow veil: Similar to the fingertip veil, this one goes to the bride’s elbows. It can be a single layer or multi-layered for more dimension.
  • Blusher veil: This type of veil covers the bride’s face, and it most common for a first-time bride. The father of the bride typically lifts the blusher veil above the bride’s head as he “gives her away.”

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