Franklin Dean
Wedding dresses are often thick due to the choice of fabric, length of the skirt, and the presence of a train. While some fabrics like voile, chiffon, and organza are lightweight, others like velvet, polyester satin, and duchess satin are thicker and heavier. The length of the skirt and the presence of a train also contribute to the weight and thickness of the dress, as they require more fabric. Additionally, embellishments and anatomical elements can further increase the overall weight of the gown.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fabric type | Mikado, moire, polyester, satin, velvet, rayon, chiffon, organza, tulle, voile, wool |
| Fabric weight | Heavy fabrics include mikado, moire, polyester, velvet, and thicker types of satin like duchess |
| Length | Longer skirts and trains add weight |
| Embellishments | Anatomical elements like embellishments add weight |
| Seasonality | Thicker fabrics like velvet and heavier types of satin are more suitable for cooler months |
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What You'll Learn
Thick fabrics like velvet are used for a regal look
Wedding dresses are often heavy due to the length of the skirt, the train, and the materials used. While velvet is not a traditional fabric for wedding gowns, it has gained popularity due to its elegant look and soft, felted finish.
Velvet is a thick fabric with a heavy-weight composition, making it suitable for fall or winter weddings. Its longstanding association with wealth and regal opulence makes it a luxurious choice for brides seeking a vintage-inspired or sophisticated look. The weight and structure of velvet contribute to its regal appearance, creating a sense of substance and warmth that is well-suited for formal dress codes.
The versatility of velvet allows designers to create elegant and timeless looks. Its soft texture and felted finish make it comfortable for the wearer, especially during the cooler months. Velvet's ability to be moulded and tailored to various silhouettes further enhances its appeal.
Additionally, velvet's durability and wrinkle resistance contribute to its practicality as a wedding dress fabric. Its unique appearance and luxurious feel make it a desirable choice for brides seeking a sophisticated and regal aesthetic.
Overall, the use of thick fabrics like velvet in wedding dresses is a deliberate choice to achieve a regal and elegant appearance, offering both visual appeal and comfort for the bride during her special day.
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Heavy silk types like Mikado are popular for structured designs
Mikado is a luxurious, heavy type of silk with a distinctive shiny finish. Its thickness provides structure and it can be tailored to create architectural and sophisticated designs. Mikado is a popular fabric for bridal gowns as it is soft to the touch and has a luminous finish, lending itself to the creation of vibrant wedding dresses. Mikado is well-suited to a range of wedding dress silhouettes, including A-line, ballgown, mermaid, mini, or tea-length.
Mikado is made using a specific Japanese technique, and the word "Mikado" is used in Japan to refer to the emperor. The fabric is now produced mainly in Europe, and it can be made from either polyester or silk. Polyester Mikado usually has a perceptible weave but a smooth and luminous finish, while silk Mikado is also known as Zibeline silk. Silk Mikado is distinguished by a slight shine that makes any garment stand out as it subtly sparkles and glows when hit by light.
Mikado is a popular fabric for structured designs due to its weight and thickness. Its ability to be moulded and multi-seamed makes it ideal for narrow mermaids and strapless ballgowns. While Mikado can be worn year-round, its weight is better suited for cooler temperatures.
Other heavy silk fabrics similar to Mikado include dupioni, gazar, and moire. These fabrics are also heavier and well-suited for structured designs. However, those looking for a lightweight gown may want to avoid these heavier silk options.
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Longer skirts and trains add weight to the dress
Wedding dresses are often heavy due to their longer skirts and trains. The longer the skirt, the more fabric is used, and therefore the heavier the dress. Trains can also add a lot of weight to a wedding dress, as they are an extra length of fabric that trails behind the wearer as they walk.
Trains are a popular choice for brides, adding an element of drama and elegance to the bridal look. They come in a variety of lengths and styles, from simple and floral to embellished. Some brides opt for detachable trains, which can be removed for the reception, providing two different looks on the wedding day.
The weight of the train and skirt can be influenced by the fabric used. Some fabrics, such as voile, chiffon, organza, and tulle, are lightweight and breathable, making them ideal for warmer weddings. In contrast, fabrics like velvet, polyester satin, and thicker silks like Mikado and Duchess are heavier and more suitable for cooler months.
The structure of the dress also contributes to its weight. A highly structured dress will hold more weight, and certain styles, such as ball gowns, require more fabric and will inevitably be heavier.
Ultimately, the choice of skirt and train length, fabric, and structure will determine the overall weight of the wedding dress. Brides can work with a seamstress or designer to customise these features and create a dress that is both comfortable and visually appealing.
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Polyester satin is uncomfortable and not very breathable
Wedding dresses are often made with thick materials, such as polyester satin. Polyester satin is a synthetic fabric, with a signature glossy surface on one side and a soft matte finish on the other. It is a popular alternative to pure silk charmeuse fabric due to its affordability and durability. However, one of its main drawbacks is that it is not very breathable.
The breathability of a fabric refers to its ability to allow air and moisture to pass through it. Polyester satin has poor moisture absorption, which means that sweat is not easily wicked away from the skin or evaporated. This can lead to discomfort, especially during warm weather, as sweat remains on the skin. The lack of breathability can also trap sweat, potentially aggravating skin issues like acne and inflammation. Additionally, the fabric can hold onto odours, which may be undesirable.
Another disadvantage of polyester satin is that it can feel scratchy and harsh against the skin. This is in contrast to silk, which has a soft and luxurious feel. Polyester satin's chemical composition may also leave residues that irritate sensitive skin. While polyester satin is hypoallergenic, it is not as effective as silk in this regard, and it may harbour mould, mildew, dust mites, and fungus.
The choice between polyester satin and silk ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget. Polyester satin is much more cost-effective than silk, but it may not offer the same level of comfort and breathability as its natural counterpart. For those seeking a more sustainable option, silk is also a more environmentally-friendly choice due to its biodegradable nature and lower environmental impact during production.
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Wool is a good option to keep warm in winter and cool in summer
Wedding dresses can be heavy due to various factors, including the length of the skirt, the train, and the materials used. While some brides opt for lightweight gowns, others prefer thicker fabrics, especially for fall or winter weddings.
Wool is a natural fibre that has been used for centuries to keep warm in the coldest winters. It might seem counterintuitive, but wool can also keep us cool in the summer. This temperature regulation is due to wool's unique structure and properties. Its crimped and curly fibres create tiny air pockets that reduce heat conduction, keeping us warm. In warm weather, wool releases excess moisture and allows for air circulation, preventing the buildup of heat and keeping us cool and dry.
Merino wool, in particular, is an excellent temperature regulator due to its natural moisture-wicking and breathability properties. The microscopic coils in merino wool fibres trap moisture, and in cold weather, this process generates heat. When the environment dries out, the wool fibres release the accumulated moisture, providing a warming effect.
Wool is also a great option for children's clothing, especially during the fall and winter months. It keeps them dry while insulating their warmth. Woollen garments are also beneficial when children are sick, as they don't have to work as hard to keep themselves warm, and can instead funnel their energy towards healing, reducing the length of their illness.
So, if you're looking for a wedding dress fabric that will keep you comfortable all year round, wool is definitely worth considering. It will provide a polished and put-together look while regulating your body temperature, ensuring you stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
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Frequently asked questions
Wedding dresses can be thick due to the materials used, such as heavy silk, polyester, or velvet, which are often chosen for their elegance and structure.
Mikado, a heavier type of silk with a shiny finish, has gained popularity for its ability to be tailored into structured designs. Duchess satin and moire are also thicker fabrics suitable for cooler months.
Longer skirts and trains on wedding dresses require more fabric, increasing their overall weight and thickness.
Yes, fabrics like voile, chiffon, organza, and rayon are known for being lightweight and breathable, providing comfortable options for brides, especially during warmer months.
