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.