The Wedding  Guide

Bridal Gown Terms

Glossary

Silhouettes:

A-line – A tight fitting bodice with a close fitting waist that slowly tapers to a flared hem

Empire waistline – A high waistline that starts just under the bust and is usually defined by a seam

Princess – A fitted shape defined by vertical seams, has a seamless waist and flares slightly to the hem

Sheath  - A straight body-skimming gown, often floor-length, may include a permanent or detachable train

Necklines:

Illusion yoke – Has transparent fabric, lace or netting fitted at the neckline and shoulders, often extending down to the bust line

On-or off-the-shoulder – Can be worn up on the shoulders or down

Jewel neckline – Rounded to follow the natural contours for the neck, creates a simple background for the jewelry

Wedding band collar – A traditional standup band that circles the neck

Sweetheart neckline  - Moderately low neckline beginning two inches from the shoulder edge, with a heart-shaped center front

Sabrina neckline – A straight neckline beginning two inches from the shoulder edge

Portrait collar – A neckline fabric that frames the shoulders, often gathered in the center above the bust line with a decorative fabric detail or ornament

Scoop neck – A low, curved neckline cut deep in the front, back or both.

Sleeves:

Cap sleeve – A short, fitted sleeve that is very full from the shoulder to the elbow, where they end

Puffed sleeve - A sleeve that is very full from the shoulder to the elbow, where they end

Fitted-point – A long sleeve that falls just below the wrist, descending to a point

¾-Sleeve – A fitted sleeve that ends at the elbow or slightly below the elbow

Pouf – A very short, full sleeve worn either on- or off-the-shoulder

Bell – A short sleeve that is full and slightly gathered at the shoulder and falls above the elbow

Waistlines:

Natural – Has a seam at the narrowest part of the midriff, which is the point of the normal waistline

Basque – An elongated waistline that dips to a V-point at the center of the front of the dress

Dropped – Has a slightly gathered seam line several inches below the natural waistline

Skirts:

Bouffant or ball gown -  A very full skirt gathered at the waist, and usually worn over a crinoline slip

Peplum – A short flounce or overskirt that is attached at the waistline

Tea length – Hemline falls below the knee but above the ankle

Floor length – Hemline falls approximately one inch from the floor