Bridal Gown Terms

When you begin shopping for your perfect wedding gown, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the terms and descriptions. Here is a quick breakdown of some of the more common terminology used when discussing wedding attire.

BODICE SHAPES

❶ Bateau Neckline: Boat-shaped design formed by a straight line between the shoulders, often dipping in front. May or may not reveal the shoulders and is usually trimmed with lace.

❷ Halter: A top in which the straps wrap around to tie or fasten behind the neck.

❸ Sweetheart Neckline: Open neckline that begins 2 inches inside the shoulder line and shaped like a heart.

❹ Semi-Sweetheart Neckline: Similar to a traditional sweetheart neckline but with a shallower dip in the center.

❺ Queen Anne Neckline: Sculptured design that is high on the sides and back, with an angled open bodice with a sweetheart shape.

SKIRT SHAPES

❻ A-Line: Typically refers to skirt design characterized by a flared hem and a close fitting waist, often gathered into a train.

❼ Empire Waistline: Shortened waist style created by attaching the skirt to the bodice just below the bustline.

❽ Mermaid: Sheath gown to the knees and then a flare out.

❾Trumpet Skirt: Skirt flared at or below the knee.

❿ Ballgown: Fitted at the waist, and then poufs out into a ballgown bell shape.

VEIL TYPES & LENGTHS

Ⓐ Blusher

Ⓑ Shoulder: 20"

Ⓒ Elbow: 25"

Ⓓ Waist: 54"

Ⓔ Fingertip: 72"

Ⓕ Floor: 108"

Ⓖ Chapel: 126"

Ⓗ Cathedral: 144"