Bridal Buzz Words

When shopping for a bridal gown, there are so many words that your Bridal Stylist will use.  When shopping for the first time these might be a little overwhelming.  We want to help take the confusion out of some of the words you will hear and make your dress shopping a breeze!  

Here are our top bridal words to help you during your bridal appointment:

Trunk Show
Are a special event when designers bring their newest collection of wedding dresses to our Showroom. The Gowns are usually from the Designers latest collection and often showcase many more gowns in that collection than may normally be available.  Keep in mind that any favourite gowns will only be in that showroom for a limited time, so best to make your purchase during the dates of the Trunk Show.  Often Trunk Shows will offer special in store promotions and brides who purchase during a trunk show might also get a special discount

Silhouette
Refers to the overall shape and form of the gown, such as A-line, ballgown, mermaid, sheath, or fit-and-flare.

Train
The length of fabric that extends from the back of the gown and trails behind the bride as she walks. Trains can be short, sweep, chapel, cathedral, or royal.  All dresses can have Trains on their gowns shortened in our Alterations process if the length doesn't suit you and some Designers can even offer lengthening options for an additional cost.

Neckline
The shape and style of the neckline of the gown, such as strapless, sweetheart, halter, V-neck, scoop, off-the-shoulder, or illusion.

Bodice
The upper part of the gown that covers the torso, including the waistline, bust, and back. Bodices can have various styles like corset, beaded, lace, or illusion.

Hemline
The edge of the gown's skirt or bottom. Common hemlines include floor-length, tea-length (falls below the knee and above the ankle), and asymmetrical.  Hems on our sample gowns are all standard, and most Bride's will require a hem adjustment as part of their alterations.  This is dependent on each Bride's height and their shoe choice. 

Bustle
A method of securing the train of the gown to the back of the dress, allowing the bride to move freely without tripping, particulary used for the reception and dancing part of your special day. Bustles can be created with buttons, hooks, or ribbons.

Appliqué
Decorative designs or motifs made of lace, fabric, or beading that are sewn onto the gown for added embellishment.

Corset
A fitted bodice with boning or lacing at the back, designed to cinch the waist and provide support to the bust. 

Sample or Stock Gown
A Bridal Sample Gown or Stock Gown is a gown that is on display in our showroom.  These gowns are tried on by Bride's to help them find their gown.  Many Bride's will then order a new gown but if purchasing a Sample Gown, it will be sold to you as is in the size and colour that is available to try.  Many sample gowns are sold at a discount and perfect for the Bride who doesn't want to wait for a new gown order, or wants to purchase a gown at a discounted price.

Lining
Sometimes sample dresses have portions of the dress that are unlined—meaning they are sheer, and you can see through that area. If you’d prefer that area covered, you can choose to have your dress lined.  Depending on the Designer of your gown this may be offered as either a complimentary variation or there may be an additional cost.  Your Bridal Stylist can help explain the options during your appointment.

These terms should give you a good foundation when discussing bridal gowns and understanding the various options available to you. Remember that bridal terminology can vary between Bridal Boutiques, so it's always helpful to ask for clarification if needed while shopping.

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