When selecting your wedding dress, the fabric it is made from plays a huge role in the overall look and fit. Some fabrics drape with ease and allow ample movement especially in a fuller skirt, whilst others are known for their structural qualities giving volume and shape. These fabrics can also be combined in a garment, with structure required in the bodice and fluidity preferred for the skirt. Each fabric has its own characteristics and offers the bride many options when creating the overall silhouette.
Lets explore these characteristics in more detail:
In this post we will explore Lace and Mikado - 2 very contrasting fabrics.
In the next post we will delve into Chiffon and crepe
LACE - Romantic and timeless, lace is intricate, lightweight and is often selected by brides who enjoy delicate detailing with pretty embellishment. There are many types of lace which differ greatly in their appearance and touch, from the finest Chantilly lace to bolder Guipure patterns utilising cotton yarns for example. Lace adds texture and patterning along with femininity and a vintage charm. It can be used as a single layer for semi transparency, doubled for added visual dimensions, or overlayed with a lining behind for additional depth and dimension. Often in bridal the lining can be a skin tone colour which allows the lace patterning to stand out more. Lace dresses tend to command a higher price bracket.
Lillian West - style 66366
MIKADO - A luxurious 'plain' fabric which has a smooth surface and a subtle sheen rather than a high shine you would get from a satin. Mikado is a 'robust' fabric which has a close weave and is the perfect vehicle for creating drama through your silhouette. If you are seeking a dress with clean lines, sharp necklines and dramatic skirts then you really should be trying on a Mikado dress. It can of course be teamed with other fabrics such as lace and crepes but if you are hoping to achieve a dress with clean lines, modern cut and a touch of grandeur, then I would recommend you may be a Mikado bride.
Justin Alexander - Harper
These are just two fabric types you will most certainly encounter on your dress journey to find the one as both are timeless and certainly popular with designers for 2025 and 2026 collections.