Wedding Dress Glossary: Terms & Definitions

A

• A-Line Dress:

  A dress silhouette fitted at the bodice and gradually flaring from the waist, resembling the letter "A."

• Appliqué:

  Decorative fabric designs sewn or adhered onto a dress, often lace or embroidery.

B

• Ball Gown:

  Dramatic, princess-like silhouette with a fitted bodice and voluminous, floor-length skirt.

• Bustle:

  Hooks, buttons, or ribbons sewn into a dress to lift and secure the train after the ceremony.

C

• Cathedral Train:

  A long, flowing train extending approximately 6-8 feet behind the dress, ideal for formal weddings.

• Corset Back:

  A closure method featuring crisscrossed lacing, enhancing fit and allowing adjustment.

D

• Dropped Waist:

  A silhouette featuring a waistline positioned lower than the natural waist, elongating the torso.

E

• Empire Waist:

  Waistline positioned directly below the bust, creating a flowing silhouette ideal for comfort and elegance.

F

• Fit-and-Flare:

  A silhouette fitted closely through the bodice and hips, flaring gradually from the mid-thigh.

G

• Gown Length:

  Standard length that reaches the floor, with or without a train.

H

• Hemline:

  The bottom edge of the wedding dress, ranging from tea-length to floor-length.

I

• Illusion Neckline:

  A sheer, often lace or tulle fabric covering the neckline and shoulders, creating the illusion of bare skin.

L

• Lace Overlay:

  Delicate lace layered atop the main fabric, providing elegance and texture.

M

• Mermaid Dress:

  Fitted closely through bodice, waist, and hips, dramatically flaring at or below the knee.

N

• Neckline:

  The shape or style of the dress at the neck area, including sweetheart, V-neck, scoop, or halter.

O

• Off-the-Shoulder:

  Neckline that elegantly rests below the shoulders, exposing the collarbone.

P

• Princess Seam:

  Vertical seams running from the shoulders or armholes down the front of the dress, creating a fitted, elongated silhouette.

R

• Ruching:

  Gathered or pleated fabric used decoratively to enhance the figure and create texture.

S

• Sweetheart Neckline:

  Neckline resembling the top half of a heart, emphasizing curves and providing a romantic look.

• Sheath Dress:

  Straight-cut, body-skimming silhouette with minimal flare, perfect for a sleek and elegant appearance.

T

• Tea-Length:

  Dress length falling between knee and ankle, traditionally mid-calf, offering vintage charm.

• Train:

  Extended fabric trailing behind the dress, ranging from short (court) to very long (cathedral).

V

• Veil:

  Traditional bridal accessory made from sheer fabric worn over the head or shoulders.

W

• Waistline:

  The horizontal seam or line on a dress that defines the position of the waist.

Y

• Yoke:

  A fitted piece of fabric across the shoulders or hips, from which the main dress fabric hangs.