Rich and delicate just as its name would suggest, this luxurious fabric is characterized by a glossy sheen on the outside and a matte finish inside. Typically made of silk (though synthetic alternatives do exist), its soft drape makes it popular for flowing styles usually cut on the bias. “Soft, sinuous, slinky fabrics often better lend themselves to narrow or slim dresses with looser fit,” says Ingram. The ultra-lightweight fabric is suitable year-round, though it tends to be a sexy spring or summer staple. Be mindful of the fact that this material tends to cling and can be difficult to alter.

One of the lighter fabrics, chiffon is often used as an overlay, in layers, or as an accent detail due to its sheer and transparent style. Made from woven silk or rayon, the matte fabric has a floaty and ethereal vibe perfect for the boho bride. Its light and airy structure makes it a great option for spring and summer weddings, while its weightless appearance lends itself to diaphanous silhouettes and goddess styles. The delicate fabric can be quite fragile, however, easily snagging, pulling, or fraying.

Made of a soft silk or lightweight rayon, crepe is gauzy and crinkled—perfect for soft silhouettes. The shapely fabric can be great for accentuating curves but also works well in stark, minimalist designs and even bridal jumpsuits. Simple styles like mermaid or A-line dresses are classic choices. This sophisticated material is a year-round favorite.

“For decades, shiny silk satin was the fabric of choice for most brides,” says Ingram. “The beauty of satin is the sheen, the hand, and the drape.” Satin is heavy and smooth from silk and nylon fibers that create a high thread count. Silk satin is one of the more traditional wedding dress fabrics, but since satin refers to the particular finish it can also be made of polyester or a blend. The durable fabric has a weight that’s suitable for all seasons, though thicker types like Duchess are most optimal for cooler months. Luxurious and sexy, the material can be very supportive, lending itself to constructed designs like ruched or ballgown styles. “What most modern brides do not like is the wrinkle and ripple factor, and unfortunately, with silk satin, that cannot be avoided,” 

Slightly rough, this fabric of coarse fibers has a charmingly raw and organic aesthetic. One of the more full-bodied silks, it does a good job at keeping its shape, making it a prime choice for more dramatic silhouettes like ballgowns. The material is appropriate year-round.

Woven of silk, cotton, or rayon, this fabric features a structured, ribbed finish with a crosswise rib effect. This texture holds an air of sophistication and has a substantial structure. While it can be worn year-round, we’ve noticed it’s popularity increase in the cooler months. The sumptuous textile is ideal for more modern or minimal designs.

Sheer and lightweight, georgette is spun from polyester or silk and has a crepe surface. Its soft silhouette makes it a perfect top layer in wedding gowns. The floaty fabric is ideal for feminine silhouettes that move with the body. It’s typically seen in the warmer seasons.

While sheer and lightweight like chiffon, organza holds a more structured silhouette making it ideal for warm-weather weddings. It’s traditionally woven from silk (though modern options can include synthetic fibers) and has a lustrous finish and crisp drape. It’s often used for layered gowns to add fullness, in ballgowns, trains, and veils as it doesn’t add weight. Perfect for whimsical, frothy looks and princess moments, the sheer material is the epitome of romantic, enchanted garden celebrations. But do be careful, as the delicate fabric is prone to snags and pulls.

Plainly woven silk or cotton, shantung features a subtle weave that results in a rubbed texture and raw, natural look. Its medium-light weight is appropriate for all seasons and allows it to hold volume that looks and feels rich. The fabric has a beautiful drape to it that can be flattering for all figures.

Available in different styles, taffeta is made from silk or synthetic fibers. The stiffer the taffeta, the higher its quality. Rich for winter and light for summer, this crisp, versatile fabric can come in almost any color and sometimes appears iridescent due to the weaving process. The supple fabric has a constructed quality about it, which makes it great for A-line dresses and full-skirted ballgowns.

Characterized by a sheer, gauzy open weave similar to netting, tulle has an airy vibe but can be ruched to add structure. Very delicate, it is often used as a gown’s lining or, of course, as a veil. It comes in different weights and levels of stiffness. The quintessential bridal fabric has seen quite a rise in popularity in sexy illusion styles with barely-there sleeves, necklines, or cut-outs. The lightweight and usually inexpensive fabric can also be used in lace designs and can be worn year-round. Keep in mind that the fabric snags easily.

Soft and thick, velvet has a felted face. Its heavy weight makes it suitable for fall or winter weddings. The luscious fabric naturally lends itself to regal looks and vintage inspirations.