FABRIC FABLES

The Fabric of Romance: Angela's Exploration of Textiles for Bridalwear

When deciding on your bridal style, there are a few things to consider: What kind of wedding are you having? What is your overall style vibe? What silhouettes suit your body type, and what fabrications are best for these? I'll break this all down in this complete guide to bridal fabrications.

First up, let's talk fibres. There are many different compositions available for bridal fabrics; the one usually top of mind is silk. Silk can come in many forms from structured weaves best suited to more formal occasions with a ballgown look or more drapey weaves like silk satin and silk crepe. Silk is an ultra-luxe natural fibre and is used for its sheen and drape qualities. I love designing with silks, my favourite being a shimmery silk satin that works well in simple slip dresses particularly when utilising the bias grain.

Other fibres such as Viscose and Cupro are a less expensive version of silk with very similar sheen and drape qualities. They can beautifully replicate the luxe look of silk without the price tag and are a vegan option. Viscose and Cupro are plant-based fibres made from cellulose and can often have sustainable options. Look for the Lenzing or Ecovero trademarks on the care labels.

All of these fibres can be woven to form fabrics from very structured weaves to more drapey fabrications. I often use drapey crepes and satins to give an effortless look to the gowns I design. It gives an effortlessly etheral look to the bridal gowns and works well in minimalist silhouettes.

Fabrics with more of a sheen can have a shimmery luxe feel, but when cut in a fitted, structured shape, can often show up all the natural lumps and bumps we all have. Fabrics with a matte weave like a textured crepe are more forgiving and give a smoother appearance. Our Antonia gown is a perfect example of this, crafted from a textured viscose crepe, the mossy nature of the fabric gives a smoother appearance.

I have a less is more approach to designing bridal gowns and draw on my years of patternmaking wedding dresses to let the simplicity of the silhouette shine through. Being an online bridal boutique, I craft the fit to include all types of body shapes and celebrate women's curves. By utilising the bias cut the bridal gowns ebb and flow over the body's natural curves. A bias cut in a drapey fabrication will allow for some stretch over wider areas and will naturally fall in to the smaller areas, creating an hourglass figure. This allows for the inclusion of body types that don't fit the standard ratios seen in many fashion and bridal brands. It allows a certain freedom and ease of movement on your big day without feeling restricted.

I love nothing more than talking fabrics and fit and all things weddings. If you want more information on the We Are Mancini wedding dresses and bridal mini's, book in a virtual consultation where we can delve into all the beautiful details of the bridal gowns and discover your dream wedding dress.