Creating A Tulle Gown: A Guide To The Perfect Wedding Dress

Tulle wedding gowns are a popular choice for brides seeking a romantic, ethereal, and whimsical look. Tulle is a lightweight and sheer fabric that is often used to create volume and drama in wedding dresses, particularly in ball gown and A-line silhouettes. The process of making a tulle wedding gown involves considering the type of tulle, the desired silhouette, and the addition of design elements such as lace, embroidery, beading, or appliqués. In this guide, we will cover the steps to make a tulle wedding gown, from choosing the right tulle to constructing the dress and adding personal touches. We will also provide tips on how to care for and maintain a tulle wedding gown to ensure it looks flawless on the big day.

Choosing the right tulle fabric

Tulle is a lightweight, sheer fabric that is often made from nylon or silk. It is known for its soft texture and flowy drape, making it perfect for creating elegant bridal wear. When choosing the right tulle fabric for your wedding gown, there are several factors to consider.

First, decide on the colour and type of tulle. Tulle comes in a variety of colours, including white, ivory, and blush, as well as embellished varieties with embroidery, sequins, glitter, or beading. These embellished tulles can add a touch of sparkle and glamour to your gown.

Next, consider the weight and texture of the tulle. Tulle can range from ultra-soft to somewhat scratchy, so it's important to choose a fabric that feels comfortable against your skin. The weight of the tulle will also affect the overall weight and drape of your gown, so consider how many layers of tulle you will need and whether you want a fuller, more voluminous skirt.

Another important factor to consider is the transparency of the tulle. Tulle is typically sheer and see-through, but you can find varieties with different levels of transparency. If you want a more modest look, you can choose a less transparent tulle or layer it over another fabric.

Finally, think about the overall style and silhouette you want to achieve. Tulle is very versatile and can be used for a variety of looks, from princess-style ball gowns to sleek and simple designs. Consider whether you want a dramatic, full-length tulle gown with a train or something more casual and lightweight for a summer wedding.

By taking the time to consider these factors, you can choose the perfect tulle fabric for your dream wedding gown.

Tulle dress styles and silhouettes

Tulle wedding dresses are often associated with luxury, decadence, and fairytales. The voluminous fabric is attention-grabbing and perfect for brides who want to make a statement. While tulle is typically associated with poofy princess ballgowns, there are many different styles and silhouettes to choose from. Here are some of the most popular tulle dress styles and silhouettes for a wedding gown:

Ballgowns

Ballgowns are perhaps the most iconic silhouette for tulle wedding dresses. They feature a fitted bodice and a full, voluminous skirt, often with multiple layers of tulle to create a fluffy, dramatic effect. Ballgowns are perfect for brides who want to feel like a princess on their wedding day. This style can be customised with various necklines, such as a plunging V-neck or an off-the-shoulder style, and can be accentuated with tulle sleeves or an extra-wide skirt.

A-Line

A-line silhouettes are another popular choice for tulle wedding dresses. This style is characterised by a fitted bodice and a skirt that gradually flares out from the waist, creating an "A" shape. A-line skirts are often made with multiple layers of tulle, adding volume and movement to the gown. This silhouette is flattering for a variety of body types and can be customised with different necklines and sleeve lengths.

Mermaid

Mermaid gowns are form-fitting and showcase the bride's curves. They hug the body from the chest to the knee, where the skirt flares out dramatically, resembling a mermaid's tail. This style is perfect for brides who want a combination of sexiness and drama. While mermaid gowns are typically made with more fitted fabrics, adding layers of tulle can create a unique, textured look.

Sheath

Sheath wedding dresses are a more fitted style that follows the body's natural shape. They tend to be less voluminous than other silhouettes, making them a good choice for brides who want a more streamlined look. While tulle is not commonly associated with sheath gowns, creative designs can incorporate tulle overlays or accents to add texture and dimension to the dress.

High-Low

High-low hemlines are a unique and modern take on the traditional wedding gown. These dresses feature an asymmetrical skirt, with the front hem falling above the knee and the back hem sweeping the floor. High-low hemlines showcase the bride's shoes and add a playful element to the overall look. This style can be created with multiple layers of tulle, adding volume and texture to the skirt.

Caring for and cleaning tulle fabric

Tulle is a delicate fabric that requires careful handling and washing. Here are some detailed instructions on how to care for and clean tulle fabric, ensuring it maintains its beauty and longevity:

Inspecting and Stain Removal:

Begin by inspecting the tulle for any dirt, stains, or problem areas, including the interior, hem, and train if it's a dress. For spot cleaning, use a mild stain remover or create your own mixture of baking soda, mild dish soap, and hydrogen peroxide. Apply it directly to the stain and gently scrub with your fingers or a soft sponge using cold water. Allow it to sit for 30 minutes. If the stain persists, use a small amount of undiluted detergent with cold water and gently rub it into the fabric. Rinse thoroughly and hang to dry.

Hand Washing Tulle:

Before washing, ensure the tulle isn't too fragile. Place it between two clean, white towels and fill the bathtub with cold water and a mild detergent or soap. If you're washing white tulle, you can use warm water and an all-colour bleach instead. Submerge the towels for 5 minutes for regular washing or up to 2 hours for bleaching. Rinse the towels and tulle together with cold water, gently scrubbing any remaining spots with a soft toothbrush. Remove the towels and gently wring out the tulle to remove excess water before drying.

Machine Washing Tulle:

Turn the tulle inside out and place it in a mesh laundry bag to protect the fabric. Use a mild detergent and set your washing machine to a gentle cycle with cold water. Hang the tulle to air dry or tumble dry on low heat. Avoid direct sunlight as it may cause fading.

General Care and Storage Tips:

Tulle is best stored wrapped in tissue paper, and it should be stored in a cool, dry, and dark location to prevent discolouration and mildew growth. Avoid storing tulle in plastic containers as they can trap moisture and cause damage. When hanging tulle garments, use padded hangers to prevent creasing and store them in a closet with adequate space to maintain their shape.

What to wear under a tulle wedding gown

When it comes to choosing what to wear under a tulle wedding gown, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, tulle gowns are often made with transparent or illusion tulle on the top, meaning that there is usually a hidden bra in the corset. Therefore, you do not need to wear an additional bra unless you feel more comfortable doing so.

As for underwear, you can opt for silk, mesh, cotton, or any other type that feels comfortable to you. It is important to choose underwear that matches the colour of your dress to ensure a seamless look. If your dress is not fully lined, you may also want to consider wearing a slip underneath to prevent any unwanted visibility.

Additionally, the style of your tulle gown will determine what type of undergarments you need. For example, ball gowns typically require hoop skirts and petticoats to create a full and fluffy silhouette. On the other hand, A-line dresses usually need a petticoat and sometimes a smaller, A-line hoop skirt. Smaller gowns are best paired with full-coverage underwear, and vintage-style gowns may require petticoats as well.

Lastly, if you plan on wearing a tulle gown with straps or sleeves, you may want to consider a bustier or adhesive bra for additional support and coverage.

How to accessorise a tulle wedding gown

Tulle wedding gowns are dreamy, ethereal, and romantic. Here are some tips on how to accessorise a tulle wedding gown:

For the Romantic Bride

Pair a tulle dress with delicate pearl or crystal accessories. Wear an updo or soft waves, and add a cathedral veil for extra drama. Tulle is a versatile fabric, so don't be afraid to experiment with different looks.

For the Bohemian Bride

Adorn your tulle gown with a flower crown or a whimsical headpiece. Tousled waves and minimalistic jewellery, such as dainty necklaces and bracelets, add to the boho charm.

For the Vintage Bride

Channel old Hollywood glamour with finger waves, pin curls, or a pin-up updo. Statement jewellery, such as chandelier earrings or a bold brooch, will complete the look.

For the Rustic Bride

Break out the cowboy boots and a belt or sash to cinch the waist. Keep your hair relaxed, and add a bouquet of wildflowers for a true countryside feel.

For the Beachy Bride

Go for a lightweight and breathable tulle dress, perhaps with a shorter length if you'll be walking on the sand. Barefoot sandals and seashell-inspired jewellery, and loose waves will complete the coastal vibe.

Jewellery

When it comes to jewellery, consider the style of your dress and your décolletage. If your dress has a strapless sweetheart neckline, a statement necklace or sparkly chandelier earrings can be a great choice. For a V-neckline, a crystal choker can be a perfect statement piece. If your dress has a high neckline, skip the necklace and opt for a bold bracelet or drop earrings instead. Remember, less is more—you want the accessories to enhance your dress, not overwhelm it.

Veils

A veil is an accessory that can add drama and tradition to your look. If your dress has intricate details, a simple one-layer veil will showcase those elements. Shorter veils are great for slender brides, while birdcage veils can add an edgy or vintage touch.

Belts and Sashes

Bridal sashes or belts can be embellished with rhinestones and gems, and they can even be customised to match your dress colour. They are a great way to enhance your figure, with thicker sashes complementing longer torsos and thinner sashes suiting shorter torsos.

Footwear

Comfort is key when choosing your wedding shoes. Opt for heels with ankle and toe straps for more security, and consider a kitten heel instead of stilettos. Gel insoles will provide extra cushioning and ensure a snug fit.

Metal Accessories

Matching your metal accessories can help tie your look together. For white or off-white wedding dresses, pair with platinum, silver, and pearls. Ivory gowns are complemented by gold accessories.

Remember, the most important accessory is your smile! Let your personality shine through, and don't be afraid to break away from tradition to create a look that's uniquely you.

Frequently asked questions