Junior Rasmussen
Wedding dress trains have been a staple in wedding fashion since medieval times. They are an extra length of fabric that trails behind the bride as she walks down the aisle, adding an element of drama and elegance to her bridal look. Trains come in various lengths and styles, from dramatic cathedral sweeps to subtle brushes of fabric. While traditional trains remain popular, detachable trains are also a fun and fresh alternative. They can be made in a variety of fabrics and offer the option of a longer train for the ceremony, which can be easily removed for the reception. Detachable trains can also save time and money, as they are less expensive and easier to execute than built-in trains. However, adding a train to a wedding dress will incur additional costs, and matching the fabric, colour, and embellishments can be challenging.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To add an element of drama and elegance to the bridal look |
| Fabric | Tulle, chiffon, satin, Mikado, lace, crepe, glitter tulle, illusion tulle, floral appliqués, sheer fabric, etc. |
| Style | Detachable, long, short, cape, overskirt, Watteau, bustles, etc. |
| Cost | A few hundred dollars to thousands, depending on the fabric, length, and embellishments |
| Considerations | The type of wedding, venue, formality level, ease of movement, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
Detachable trains offer a versatile option
Wedding dress trains have been a staple in wedding fashion since the Middle Ages. Back then, the length and elaborateness of a train indicated a family's social status. Today, they remain a symbol of elegance and grace, with many brides still opting for this timeless look.
While traditional trains will always be in style, a detachable wedding dress train is a fun and versatile alternative. They can be made in a variety of fabrics, from lightweight and ethereal to structured and voluminous, allowing you to match it with your wedding gown. Detachable trains can be easily removed, giving you two looks in one. This is especially useful if you're looking to dance the night away without a heavy and cumbersome train getting in your way.
A detachable train can also save you money. With a built-in train, you may need to add a bustle, which can be expensive and difficult to execute. A detachable train, on the other hand, is less expensive in terms of alterations, and you won't need to worry about the added cost of a bustle.
When it comes to style, the options are endless. A detachable train can turn a fitted silhouette into a ball gown or a sheath into an ethereal, dreamy look. It can also add volume and dimension to a structured dress, or create a floaty, whimsical effect with lightweight fabrics.
If you're considering a detachable train, be sure to explore the different options available, from full skirts to chic capes. You can even opt for a detachable overskirt, which lays over the top of your wedding dress skirt, wrapping around your waistline. This gives you the option of a longer train for the ceremony, which can be removed for a sleek and sophisticated look at the reception.
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Trains can be made from various fabrics
If you're after a more structured design, dupioni is a full-bodied silk with a raw and organic aesthetic that can hold its shape. It's perfect for dramatic silhouettes like ball gowns. Another option for structure is gazar, a smooth and crisp fabric, often made from silk.
For a lightweight, whimsical effect, a Watteau train might be the choice for you. This train attaches at the shoulders, giving a veil-like appearance, and can be made from sheer fabric for a stunning, ethereal look.
If you're after a dramatic, fairytale look, a cathedral train is a popular choice, often seen at black-tie weddings and grand church ceremonies. These trains are long and require assistance from bridesmaids to carry and manage.
For a more versatile option, a detachable train or overskirt can be added to your wedding dress, allowing you to have two different looks on your wedding day. These can be made from a variety of fabrics, such as tulle, Mikado, or lace, and can be embellished with sequins, sparkles, or floral appliqués.
When choosing the fabric for your train, it's important to consider the practicality of your chosen material. More durable fabrics are easier to clean and can withstand more handling. If you're having an outdoor wedding, you might opt for a shorter train, such as a sweep train, to avoid dragging your train through the dirt or getting it caught in the wind.
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Trains can be added to most dresses
Another option is to add a train using a bustle. A bustle is created by attaching the train to the skirt of the dress using buttons, loops, ribbons, or hooks. This option can be more expensive and challenging to execute. It is important to consider the length of the train, as longer trains can be cumbersome and difficult to manage, especially for destination weddings or if the bride wants to dance freely.
Some dresses may not be suitable for adding a train due to the fabric, colour, and pattern. For example, matching lace patterns can be challenging. In such cases, a long veil can be a good alternative to create the illusion of a train without altering the dress.
Ultimately, the decision to add a train to a wedding dress depends on the bride's vision, the style of the dress, and the expertise of the seamstress or designer. It is recommended to consult with a professional to ensure the desired look can be achieved and to consider the additional cost and time required for alterations.
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Trains can be expensive and difficult to execute
Another cost to consider is alterations to the train itself. For example, you may wish to shorten a long train during alterations, which will come at a cost. Detachable trains are a popular choice as they allow brides to have two looks in one, but they can be expensive. If you want to add a train to an existing dress, this will also be costly, as you will need to consult a seamstress to ensure the fabric, colour, and pattern match, and the seams may need to be hidden.
Trains can also be difficult to execute, particularly if you want a long train. The longer the train, the harder it will be to move around in, especially if you want to dance at your wedding reception. Trains are heavy, and you will need to consider how it will feel to carry that weight for several hours. You may be able to drape the train over your arm or pin it up, but this will require planning in advance.
The type of fabric you choose for your train can also impact how easy it is to execute. More durable fabrics can withstand more handling and are easier to clean, whereas delicate fabrics may be more difficult to manage.
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$32.9
Trains can be long or short
If you are considering adding a train to your wedding dress, it is recommended to opt for a detachable train rather than altering the existing train. Detachable trains offer versatility, allowing you to have a longer train for the ceremony and removing it for the reception. They also give you the option to change up your look between the ceremony, photos, and dance floor. Additionally, they can be made in a variety of fabrics to match your wedding gown and can add volume or create a floaty, ethereal effect.
However, adding a detachable train will incur additional costs, and you will need to factor in the fabric, length, and embellishments. It is also important to note that even with a detachable train, you will still need to consider the weight and length of the train, especially if you plan to bustle it.
Ultimately, the decision to add a train to your wedding dress depends on your personal preference and the overall vision for your wedding day look.
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Frequently asked questions
A wedding dress train is an extra length of fabric that trails behind the dress when the wearer walks, adding an element of drama and elegance.
Wedding dress trains come in various lengths and styles, including short trains like the sweep or chapel train, and long trains like the cathedral train. They can also be detachable or built-in.
A detachable train gives you two looks in one. It adds drama to the ceremony without weighing you down at the reception. It's also less expensive than altering the dress to add a built-in train.
You can attach a detachable train to your wedding dress using buttons, loops, ribbons, or hooks. You can also opt for a cape-like Watteau train that ties or pins in place, or a bridal cape that attaches with a ribbon, clasp, or decorative pin around your neck.
