Junior Rasmussen
The bottom half of a wedding dress is called the skirt, and it can greatly influence the overall look of the dress. Wedding dress skirts come in a variety of shapes and silhouettes, including A-line, ball gowns, sheath, and mermaid gowns. The skirt may also have a train attached to it, which adds a dramatic flair as the wearer walks down the aisle. The train's length can indicate the formality of the wedding—the longer the train, the more formal the wedding.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Skirt |
| Description | The bottom half of a wedding dress, which comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and lengths. |
| Fabric | Mikado, Jacquard, Brocade, Organza, Dotted Swiss, Taffeta, Charmeuse, Silk, Velvet, Satin, Chiffon, Tulle |
| Style | Pleats, Slits, Flounces, Pleats, Layers, Bustles, Trains |
| Train Styles | Monarch, Chapel, Cathedral, Watteau, Court, Detachable |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
The bottom half of a wedding dress is called a skirt
The skirt of a wedding dress can have several layers of fabric, with the bottom of the skirt cut on a diagonal angle. Most wedding dress skirts will have more than one layer of fabric, even if the skirt is slim or form-fitting. The skirt may also have a lining, which is a layer of nude or white fabric underneath the rest of the skirt. This lining acts as a built-in slip that prevents the dress from being sheer.
The skirt is an important part of the wedding dress, as it can influence the overall look of the ensemble. The shape, size, and length of the skirt can vary from dress to dress, and different styles may be more appropriate for different venues and weather conditions. For example, lighter fabric materials such as organza, dotted Swiss, taffeta, and charmeuse are often chosen for summer weddings, while silk, brocade, velvet, and satin are more common choices for winter weddings.
The skirt of a wedding dress can also be enhanced with a train, which is a dramatic flair of fabric that extends from the waist or shoulders of the dress. The length of the train can indicate the formality of the wedding, with longer trains being more formal. Trains can range from several inches to up to 12 feet in length and can be bustled or detached for easy movement after the ceremony.
The Cost of Wedding Dress Alterations: What to Expect
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$23
Wedding dress skirts vary in shape, size, and length
The bottom half of a wedding dress is called the skirt, and it can greatly influence the overall look of the dress. Wedding dress skirts vary in shape, size, and length, and there are many different styles to choose from.
Skirts can be slim or form-fitting, like sheath and mermaid gowns, or they can be more voluminous, like A-line and ball gowns. A sheath dress is a good choice for brides who want a dress that complements their body shape without being uncomfortable. Mermaid dresses are fitted from the top to the knees and then flare out in a tail line, creating a flattering and alluring look. Tea-length dresses that end at the knees are a good option for a casual, fun wedding. A-line dresses are a good choice for brides who want a less dramatic ball gown style without losing its charm. Ball gowns, on the other hand, are ideal for brides who want a princess look, with a cinched waistline, full skirt, and layers of fabric adding drama.
The length of the skirt can also vary. Some skirts may be floor-length, while others may be shorter, such as calf-length or tea-length. The length of the skirt can depend on the formality of the wedding, with longer skirts typically being more formal. Additionally, the skirt may have a train, which can add to the drama and formality of the dress. Trains can range in length from several inches to up to 12 feet, with longer trains indicating a more formal wedding. The train can be detachable, allowing the bride to remove it after the ceremony for easier movement.
The skirt of a wedding dress is usually made up of multiple layers of fabric, even if the overall silhouette is slim or form-fitting. These layers can add volume and shape to the skirt, as well as provide structure and support. The number of layers can vary, but most skirts will have at least two or three layers, including a lining. The lining is typically a layer of nude or white fabric that prevents the dress from being sheer.
The fabric used for the skirt can also vary depending on the venue, weather, design, and personal preference. For summer weddings, lighter fabrics such as organza, dotted Swiss, taffeta, and charmeuse are often chosen. While for winter weddings, silk, brocade, velvet, and satin are popular choices. The fabric can be embellished with crystals, beads, or lace, adding to the overall style and design of the skirt.
Daytime Wedding Guest: Strappy Dresses and Morning Ceremonies
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$36.99 $46.99
The end of a wedding dress is called a hem
The hem of a wedding dress is an important feature, as it is often the focal point of the gown. It can be decorated or embellished to add interest and depth to the overall design. In some cases, the hem may extend into a train, which can range in length from several inches to 12 feet or more. A train adds a dramatic touch to the dress, especially when walking down the aisle. There are different types of trains, such as the royal train, chapel train, and Watteau train, each indicating varying levels of formality.
The hem of a wedding dress is also important from a functional standpoint. It can be bustled, which means it can be pinned, buttoned, or attached to the back of the skirt to make it easier for the bride to move and dance during the reception. A detachable train is another option for added convenience.
The bottom of a wedding dress, including the hem and skirt, is an essential part of the overall design and can be customised to the bride's preferences and the level of formality of the wedding. It is a key element in creating the desired silhouette and look for the big day.
Transforming Deep-Cut Dresses for Wedding Appropriateness
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Trains can be attached to the bottom of a wedding dress
The bottom half of a wedding dress is called the skirt. Wedding dress skirts come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and lengths. Most skirts have multiple layers of fabric, with the bottom layer known as the lining. This lining is usually made from nude or white fabric and acts as a built-in slip to prevent the dress from being sheer.
The skirt is an important part of the wedding dress, as it can greatly influence the overall look of the ensemble. Wedding dress skirts can be form-fitting or voluminous, with some common styles including sheath, mermaid, A-line, and ball gowns. The end of the skirt is called the hem, and it sometimes extends into a train or dress tail.
The train can be hooked, pinned, buttoned, or attached to the back of the skirt, a style known as a bustle. A bustle adds depth and interest to the wedding dress and can be easily managed for dancing after the ceremony. Trains can also be detachable, which is a more informal option and can be removed after the wedding.
How to Reuse Your Wedding Dress
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$35.09 $36.99
$13.99 $45.99
The length of a train can indicate the formality of a wedding
The bottom half of a wedding dress is called the skirt. The skirt can influence the overall look of the dress, with its shape, size, and length varying from dress to dress. The skirt is usually made up of several layers of fabric, with the bottom layer, or hem, sometimes extending into a train.
There are various lengths of trains, each carrying its own level of formality. The shortest train length is the sweep, or brush, train, which extends just a few inches behind the gown. This length is perfect for casual or outdoor weddings, adding a touch of sophistication without being overwhelming. The next length up is the court train, which falls about one to two feet behind the gown. This train provides a subtle extension with a delicate and graceful touch, making it a popular choice for traditional weddings. The chapel train, extending about three to four feet behind the gown, exudes sophistication and works for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, creating an elegant and romantic look. It offers a bit more formality without being too dramatic, making it suitable for weddings across the formality spectrum.
The semi-cathedral train, extending four to five feet from the waist, is slightly more formal than the chapel train. It provides the same dramatic effect of a long wedding dress train without being too heavy or voluminous. The cathedral train, extending six to eight feet, is a very formal option, perfect for grand venues. Finally, the monarch, or royal, train, extending ten feet or more, is the epitome of extravagance and opulence. This length is reserved for the most formal and lavish affairs, such as royal weddings.
In addition to the length of the train, the fabric of the wedding dress can also indicate formality. For example, Mikado fabric, a heavy, lustrous, and structured fabric with a luxurious feel and luminous sheen, can be used for more formal weddings.
Royal Wedding: Cost of Princess Kate's Gown
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The bottom half of a wedding dress is called the skirt.
The end of a wedding dress is called the hem.
A train is a feature on some wedding dresses that extends from the waist or shoulders and trails behind the dress. The length of the train can indicate the formality of the wedding—the longer the train, the more formal the wedding.
