When buying a wedding gown, you are not just buying the gown, you are buying the entire ensemble; including the gown, the headpiece, jewelry, undergarments, and shoes. Make sure that all the different pieces work well together!

• Look through bridal magazines for ideas. Most manufacturers list shops where the dress can be found locally.
• Don't fall in love with the first dress you try on. You might like the look of yourself as a bride better than the actual gown. It's easy to be swept away by the first gown! Try on a couple more, and then go back to the first one. You may still love it best, or you may find it isn't as fantastic as you had thought.
• Bring shoes the height you want to wear at the wedding with you when you shop. This will give you a good idea of how the gown will actually fall on you. Also - wear a strapless bra so that you can get a good idea of how the dress will look.
• Bring only one person with you on your first few trips, someone you can trust to tell you the truth about how the gown looks on you.
• You may want to take some attendants with you, once you have narrowed down your choices. That way you can get different opinions of how the gowns look on you. Of course, you get to make the final choice!
• Be well rested. If you are tired and less than patient, the shopping trip is guaranteed not to be a success.
• Have a list of the following for your bridal consultant: the date and time of the wedding, the formality, the theme, and the location of ceremony and reception. Also, you should have already asked your officiant about dress restrictions.
• Allow several weeks or even months to visit shops and try on dresses. If you try on too many dresses at one time, you'll get tired, and may wind up getting something just to be done with it.
• Try on different types and styles of gowns. Some may not be as impressive on the hanger as they are once you get them on. You¹ll always know when you have found the perfect gown!
• Ask if the gown can be customized. Perhaps you love everything but the sleeves - can they be changed? Remember, this may involve additional costs.
• Before you buy - Beware! Has the shop been in business for a while? Does it seem well taken care of, the people who work there professional?
• Keep in mind that during the ceremony, your guests will mainly see the back of your gown, so be sure you like that as well as the front!
• Know your budget before you start looking. That will give the consultant a place to start.
• Don't try to do everything at once. Shop for the gown first, and when that decision has been made, look for the accessories.

This is one of the first details you'll want to attend to - because it's so much fun! As soon as you know what season your wedding will be you can start to look. You should make sure you start looking at least seven months before your wedding, to allow enough time for everything that needs to be done.

Many bridal shops offer the services of a bridal consultant, who assists you in trying on gowns, helps you choose accessories, and takes care of ordering your gown for you. She can be a very valuable help to you, so make sure to ask her a lot of questions and for her advice. She has a lot of experience in helping brides look their best.

Making an appointment assures you that there will be a salesperson to attend to your every need. Start off by telling her your budget. That way you won't see a lot of dresses you can't afford. You will be in a large dressing room, with plenty of mirrors. The salesperson will bring you many different gowns to try on. Try to have an idea of what you want, and talk to her about it. If you want lots of lace and sequins, she won't bring you the less ornate dresses. You may also want to take this time to look for your attendants' dress, just to get an idea of what type of dress will compliment your gown.

Usually the first question the bridal consultant will ask is how much you want to spend. To give you some idea, wedding gowns can cost from a few hundred dollars to many thousands. An average price in Rochester would be from about five hundred dollars to fifteen hundred dollars. The bridal gown is traditionally paid for by the bride's parents, or by the bride herself.

This will depend upon the intricacy of the design, the type of material, and the number of alternations you want made. If you find the dress you love is out of your price range, you may also ask about buying the sample dress. If cost is a large factor, you may look for one that had been canceled, or at the end of the season when the dresses are on sale. You may also want to see if having your dress made by a seamstress is more economical, although you may not find a great deal of difference in price. Looking for bargains? This can be a triumph or a headache. Remember, you usually get what you pay for. If it seems an unbelievable bargain, it probably is. Make sure that the quality of material and workmanship are the same as the higher-priced gowns. Also, make sure the shop is reputable, that you will actually have your gown, and on time.

Women come in many different shapes and sizes. Keep your figure in mind when shopping for a dress. Here are some tips to get you thinking! If you are:

Short: Look at dresses where the lines run up and down. An empire waist, a high neckline or trim at the neckline will also help. Stay away from extremely ornate gowns, they will make you look shorter. An elongated waistline will help to add height.

Tall: Choose a skirt with many flounces or tiers. A low neckline can minimize height. Off-the-shoulder gowns will also flatter you.

Thin: A very full dress, especially with full sleeves, will help round you out. Materials that drape a lot will look good on you. Horizontal detail will also serve to add shaping.

Stick figure: If your hips and bust are the same size, and you don't have a waist, your dress should help create your shape. You would look best in gowns with oversized shoulders, a bateau neckline, or very detailed sleeves. You should look for a more billowy skirt.

Full figure: A flowing material, such as chiffon, will help hide extra pounds. Look at your good points and emphasize these and try to detract attention from your bad points. If you have a heavy waist, choose a dress with a higher waistline.

Top heavy: You can help balance your figure by lengthening the upper body and drawing attention downward. Billowing skirts or a lot of ornamentation on the skirt will balance your figure. Pear shape: You should look for a gown with more ornamentation or texture on the bodice. Try to find a dress that gives you broader, squarer shoulders. Your skirt should have a defined waistline, then not be extremely full beneath.

Wide hips: A flared skirt, or an A-line dress will look best on you. A fuller skirt will minimize heavy hips or legs. The wider hemline can be balanced on top by puffed sleeves or a hat. A dramatic neckline will also draw attention upwards.

Hourglass: Your dress should balance your proportions above and below your waist. Classic styles will look best on you. Look for a dress that will emphasize your waistline.

There are a full range of fashions available for women 5' 4" and under. Ask if bridal shops carry these. The best thing to keep in mind is that all details of the gowns should be scaled to your smaller size. Sleeves should be slightly less full, and you should keep flounces and ruffles to a minimum. Straighter, simpler gowns will look better on you. Heavy ornamentation can be overwhelming on a petite woman.

There are dresses specially available for full-figured women. The proportions of your figure will determine which style of gown will be most flattering on you. Ask your bridal consultant for suggestions, and follow her recommendations. Some women with fuller figures look best in a simple gown, with little ornamentation. Some may even look best in a form-fitting sheath style. In general, the most flattering gowns will have less ornamentation and detail near the face. A long drop or Basque waistline usually the most flattering, as it lengthens the torso for a better proportion. If you have a heavier bust, consider the undergarments you need to look your best. A strapless or off-the-shoulder gown may not be a good choice for you. Your headpiece and hair style should also be in proportion to your size - they can be fuller and more ornate.

There are many different options for you to choose - should you get machine-made lace, or opt for handmade imported lace? There will be a large difference in the cost of these two. It is up to you to decide if there is also a large difference in how they look. You should carefully check the quality of the manufacturing. Check seams, buttons, and how laces and sequins are attached. Gowns will be less expensive with laces and beads glued on, rather than sewn. Since you only wear the gown for one day, both should stay on equally well.

• A sleek bodice will enhance a fuller or more ornamented skirt.
• A strapless gown should be covered by a bolero or jacket during the wedding ceremony.
• A wider neckline will enhance your shoulders.
• A fitted waist enhances your shape.
• A simpler bodice will minimize your upper body.
• If you are very curvy, use detailing either on the top or bottom of the gown, but not on both.
• A deep neckline will show off your bustline, but that shouldn't be the only thing noticeable about your gown.
• If your legs are your best feature, choose a short dress, a sheath with a slit, or an angled hemline.
• A long, graceful neck is best show off with a high-neck cutout neckline.
• Want to be a little daring without showing too much? Wear a dress with a plunging back or a backless gown.
• Choose a shade that best flatters your skin. Try the gowns on in different lights if you are unsure.
• Never order a gown you haven't tried on. It may look wonderful in the photo, and a disaster on you.

The fabric is determined by what you like, and by the season. For Fall or Winter weddings, heavier fabric is usually chosen. For Spring and Summer weddings, a lighter fabric is appropriate.

Wedding gowns usually have a lot of ornamentation. This gives you a romantic look. If there is a lot of lace, ask about how to properly clean and care for it. Don't be surprised if the lace, sequins and pearls are glued on. This is fairly common with wedding gowns which are designed to only be worn once. This is one way of cutting down on the cost of the gown, without sacrificing the looks.

White, ivory, and pastels are the predominant colors for wedding gowns, though white is the traditional color. Make sure the color looks good on you. Be careful with ivory, it can make some complexions wash out, or look sallow. If you have your heart set on white, but feel that it doesn't flatter you, choose a neckline style with is farther from your face, to lessen the effect.

The season of your wedding will very much impact the shades and fabrics you can choose from.

Spring and Fall: Year-round fabrics are best, such as Brocade, textured Cotton, Shantung, Taffeta, or Tulle. You may opt for long or short sleeves, depending on exactly when your wedding falls, but you may also want to be prepared with a jacket. Spring's colors are more pastel shades, while Fall's are more brilliant. These colors, the colors of your attendants'[ gowns, play a part on your color choice. All colors in your wedding should work well together.

Summer: For hot summer days, the lightest fabrics will be the most comfortable. These include: Chiffon, Lace, Linen, Organza, or Voile. Again, keep your overall wedding colors in mind when choosing your gown's color.

Winter: You will wear the heavier fabrics, such as Satin or Velvet. One option you might choose is an all-white wedding, or snowball wedding. If you do choose this, make sure that none of the whites (your gown or your attendantts') are an ivory tone, which would look soiled next to pure white.

Headpieces and veils should be tried on the same time you try on your gown so you can see that they compliment each other. These are separate items, and are charged separately from your gown. There are many different headpieces to choose from. You should choose one which suits your gown, your hairstyle, and your face shape. Veil should only be worn by first-time brides. Usually, the more formal a wedding, the longer the veil. It should suit the length of the dress. An Elbow length veil falls to your elbows. A Chapel veil falls three yards long, and a Cathedral length veil falls four yards. A three-tiered Fingertip veil falls to your fingertips, and is complemented by a face veil. A Blusher covers only your head and face. This can be removed at the beginning of the wedding ceremony. You may want to choose a detachable veil so you can remove it after the ceremony. More information on headpieces can be found in a separate article, Headpieces and Veils.

Be bold. Try out something new, but not on the day of your wedding! Try a new haircut or permanent a few months before your wedding, so that it can grow out if you hate it. Have your favorite stylist style your hair a few different ways a couple of weeks before the wedding. When you find a style you like, set an appointment for your wedding day. Allow enough time for the stylist to do your hair, then for you to apply your makeup.

Here are a few hints about the finishing touches for your ensemble.

Gloves: These should blend with and enhance the total look. Gloves are not required except in very formal weddings. One-button gloves stop at the wrist, and are won with long-sleeved gowns. Sixteen-button gloves cover your entire arm. These would have to be worn with a sleeveless gown. You may want to slit the seam of the ring finger so that you can slip your ring on at the wedding. It will be much easier than taking the entire glove off. Or choose gauntlets, which are full length, fingerless gloves. You can also choose fingerless mits. Try your gloves on with your gown, and make sure they are the same color and tone. Also - remember to remove your gloves when eating!

Shoes: These should coordinate with your gown. If you wear a pastel or ivory gown, your shoes should be dyed the same color. Your shoes will show when you walk, no matter how long your gown is. They are particularly important if your gown is short in the front. Your shoes should be feminine and flattering, and ornamented, such as trimmed with lace or sequins. High heels may be more flattering, but make sure they are also comfortable. Choose the heel height in which you feel the most comfortable. You will be on your feet a lot on your wedding day, so be sure your shoes are correctly sized. Be particularly careful to purchase shoes that are wide enough. Shop for them at the end of the day, when your feet are the widest. And have both feet measured. You may find that one is slightly larger than the other. Break your shoes in. Also - scuff them on cement or pavement a few times so that the bottoms are rough, and won't slip out from under you.

Stockings: These should compliment the style and color of your gown and shoes. You may choose anywhere from white, lace stockings to simple nylons. Stockings may include sequins, pearls, appliques, or other trim. Look for a stocking that includes Lycra, to avoid bagging late in the day. Remember, everyone will see them! They will show if you are going to have your groom remove the garter at your reception. You might be smart to buy an extra pair, in case you get a run, so you can change before the garter is thrown.

Undergarments, Bras: Make sure that whatever lingerie you have will not show through the dress. You will need a strapless bra if you choose one of the popular off-the-shoulder styles. Since your gown will probably be the most elaborate on top, a well-fitting bra is essential. Purchase a bra specifically for your wedding, and wear it at your gown fittings. Some experts suggest beige, others white. Ask your gown salesperson which she would suggest.

Undergarments, Slips: Ask your gown salesperson about how full a slip to get for your particular gown. You don't want your slip bunched up under your dress. Make sure your slip is close to the length of your gown, two to three inches shorter than your gown is a good length. A half-slip under a floor-length gown may be very noticeable when the light is behind it. The bridal shop should have different slips in stock for you to try with your gown.

Undergarments, Control: Your wedding day is one day you want to look particularly good. You may want to consider wearing a body-briefer, or all-in-one, which may shave inches from your waist. Alternately, it's going to be a long day, and you may choose to be as comfortable as possible instead.

Garter: It should be made of lace, satin, or ribbon, highly decorated, and should be worn just above your knee. Remember, your groom will have to take it off during the reception. Many brides use their garter as their something blue.

Jewelry: Brides traditionally wear pearls or very simple gold jewelry. If the bodice of your gown is ornate, you may not need any at all. If your gown is plain, you can use your jewelry to dress it up. Earrings should be in proportion to your headpiece and hair. Again, the more ornate your headpiece, the less ornate your earrings should be, and vice-versa. The most important thing to keep in mind is that your jewelry should not steal the attention from your gown.

Engagement ring: If you want to wear your engagement ring during your wedding, wear it on the ring finger of your right hand. After the ceremony, you can switch it back. Remember, your wedding ring is worn closest to your knuckle. Or closest to your heart, if that's how you'd prefer to look at it.

Other items: Some brides choose to carry a Bible, perhaps covered in white leather or lace. You may want to add other touches as well, such as a shawl, parasol, or fan.

Handbag: There are decorative bags available to suit any wedding style. You should choose a small bag, such as you would take to a formal party. If you decide not to carry a purse during the wedding or reception, make sure that any important things, such as a wallet or driver's license are carried by someone else, perhaps your mother or maid of honor.

Something Old: Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue!

Your gown will probably have to be altered somewhat to fit you. The seamstress at the bridal shop should be able to make any alternations your gown requires. Unless you are a very accomplished seamstress, the alterations are not something to attempt yourself. Here are some things to look for in a good-fitting gown.

Neck: It should not be so loose that it puckers, nor should it feel tight. A lower neckline should lay smoothly against your neck or chest.

Bust: The gown should lay smooth, but should not be binding. Try reaching up over your head, and stretching your arms out in front of you. If these movements are comfortable, the top is not too tight. The darts should lay across the fullest part of your chest, not above or below it.

Sleeves: Shoulder seams should lie on top of your shoulder. The cuff should lay on your wrist bone, with lace or trim laying across the top of your hand. If the sleeve style is tight, it may be somewhat uncomfortable.

Waist: It should lay smoothly, with no puckers or wrinkles. It should also not be too tight. You will be moving around and will be eating dinner in this dress!

Length: It should fall from 1 1/2" to 2" off the floor with your shoes on. It should hang evenly all around. Order your dress in the size you are < don't buy a smaller dress because you are counting on losing weight before the wedding. Wedding gowns run small, so don't be worried if the bridal consultant suggests a larger size than you'd normally wear. When deciding on the size, she will choose the size that matches the largest part of the gown. If you have a larger bust, and a tiny waist, the gown will fit your bust, and the waist can be taken in. It is much easier to take a larger dress in than to have to squeeze into a too-small dress. You will have a few fittings before the wedding for alterations. Make sure everything on your dress fits well, and is comfortable.

There are maternity gowns available for pregnant brides. And yes, white is still permissible for pregnant brides. If you are not too far along, you may simply want to choose a gown that is a couple of sizes larger than your regular size. Don't order a gown more than two sizes larger, or everything else (sleeves, neckline) will hang on you. If you are going into your third trimester, you will probably need to purchase a maternity gown. Bridal shops do carry these gowns. Call around to see which ones in Rochester may have them. Also - another hint - you should consider carrying a large bunch of flowers as your bouquet, if you want to be less obvious about being pregnant.

Even though you have already had one wedding, you can still make your second beautiful. If you really want to wear white, then go ahead. Many times second marriages are not as elaborate as first marriages, with the bride wearing a less ornate gown. However, you do have the option for a more sophisticated look than a first-time bride. Cream and off-white are more usual for second-time brides, but you can wear any color you feel looks good on you. Also, any length is allowable. One item that second-time brides should not wear is a veil or a long train. These pieces are intended as a symbol of innocence, and are inappropriate on a second-time bride.

Many brides save their wedding gowns in hopes that their daughter will someday wear them. If you are planning on wearing someone else's gown, you will probably have to plan on having some alterations done. Contact an experienced seamstress or bridal consultant for their recommendations. Taking a dress in or shortening it are easy, but making it larger or longer can be a challenge. Lace may have to be replaced, or new fabric inserted. It can be wonderful to wear your mother's gown, but also make sure that it is really what you want to wear.

Your personal style may be to always do things a little different. Your wedding gown can be whatever you want. Except for black, any color is permissible, so if you want to wear bright red, wear it! As long as you keep it in good taste, you can wear whatever you like to celebrate your wedding.

You may opt for having a gown made by a seamstress, or relative, or making it yourself. You should look in bridal magazines for the style you like, and take this to a seamstress. She may be able to work from the photograph, or you may have to find a comparable pattern. You may want to get several patterns to get the exact neckline, sleeves, etc. that you want. Make sure that whoever sews the gown is an accomplished seamstress. You don't want to have your gown be anything less than perfect.

If you are ordering a custom-made dress, you should order it at least six months before your wedding date. You must allow time for it to be made, delivered to the shop and for alterations, if any are necessary. Remember, all alterations should be done in time for you to have your formal portrait taken, about four weeks before your wedding. You will probably have to give a 50% deposit when ordering. You can purchase a dress in less time, but then you are limiting your options. It's a good idea to give your wedding date as a month earlier than it really is, so that the dress is in the shop in plenty of time.

You will probably be asked for a deposit at the time that your order your gown. Ask about their payment options. Find out when your dress is to be delivered, and the costs of extra length or alterations. Ask about the cancellation policy of the store. Make sure you understand all details of the contract. Keep any receipts you receive! These points should be covered in your contract: Dress manufacturer, style number, size, color, ornamentation, special orders and their costs, delivery date, price and payment schedule, deposit paid, fitting costs, pressing costs, the store's policy on cancellations, and the store's policy on refunds, the policy for pickup and gown storage, and cleaning, if they do that as well. A good policy is to call the shop, a few days after you place your order, and check every detail of the order with a consultant. A double check never hurts.

You should allow plenty of time to get dressed, as your wedding attire will probably be more ornate than you are used to wearing. After you have put your dress on, try not to sit down on it and wrinkle it. If you must ride to the wedding, try to sit on the petticoat or slip rather than the gown itself.

We don't usually wear clothes this ornate, or this long! Wear your dress a few hours before the wedding day, practicing walking in it. Keep your head up, and your shoulders back, so that the gown hangs properly and you look the most elegant. Remember to lift the gown when going up or down stairs. You look beautiful! Move as if you do!

You should have your gown cleaned after the wedding, even if there are no visible marks or stains. You can do this yourself, or take it to a professional cleaner. It should be cleaned within two days of the wedding, so any stains will not become permanent. You can take out water soluble stains, such as beverages or perspiration, by blotting them with water and detergent. Wine stains can be taken out by rubbing damp salt on the spot then scraping it off when dry. Greasy stains, such as lipstick, salad dressing or frosting can be taken off with spray-on spot removers or hair spray. If there is a large stain, or the fabric is delicate, you should probably as a dry cleaner to remove the stain. If you take your gown to a professional dry cleaner, call his or her attention to any stains or spots on the gown. Ask if they will also prepare your gown for storage. For additional information, see Preserving Your Gown.

Fold it carefully into a large box, with white tissue paper to prevent wrinkling around folds. Seal the box carefully, so that moisture will not seep in. Store the box somewhere it will not be exposed to light, or large temperature changes. A basement (if it gets wet), or an attic (if there are large temperature changes in it) may not be the best place for your gown. Do not put your gown in a plastic bag, or leave it on a hanger. The bag may hold humidity inside, which will mildew your gown. Leaving your dress on a hanger may pull it out of shape by the weight of the gown. Wedding Gown Glossary

Batiste- is a summery, cotton material.

Brocade-is a heavy fabric, with interwoven, embossed patterns.

Charmeuse- is classically made of silk, and is a soft, lightweight cloth.

Chiffon- is sheer, often layered with more chiffon or over a heavier fabric.

Chintz- is a cotton fabric, printed and with a glazed finish.

Crepe- is often used when a draping effect is wanted. Made of thin silk, rayon, polyester or cotton.

Crepe de Chine- is a light, thin fabric - usually used in making blouses.

Crinoline- is netting used underneath skirts for fullness.

English net- is fine sheer cotton netting.

Eyelet- is open-weave embroidery, used for ornamentation.

Faille- is a heavier fabric used is cooler-weather weddings. Slightly stiff, with a ribbed weave.

Georgette fabric- is silk or synthetic crepe with a dull texture.

Illusion- is a silk tulle used primarily for veils.

Jersey- is made of silk or a blend, and is very fluid.

Linen- is made of natural linen or a blend, as it wrinkles easily, and is used for a heavier design.

Net- is used, often at necklines or on veils, when a sheer effect is desired.

Moiré- is silk taffeta patterned to glisten as if wet.

Organdy- is sheer silk or rayon fabric, often printed or embroidered.

Organza- is a sheer, stiff fabric, often appliquéd.

Peau de soie- is a silk blend, which holds its shape, yet has a soft feel.

Raw silk fabric- is characterized by slubs in the material.

Satin- usually has a high gleam, and a more constructed shape.

Silk-faced satin- is smooth fabric with a glossy front and a dull back.

Silk gazar- is silk organza with a square weave.

Shantung- is a silk or man-made fabric with a rough texture (slubs).

Taffeta- is generally a heavier fabric, with a stiffer feel.

Tulle- looks like veiling, and is usually layered, for a ballerina look.

Velvet- is a winter fabric, usually used in simpler styles.

Alencon lace- is needlepoint lace, in a net background.

Battenburg lace- is attached, coarse linen lace.

Bobbin lace- is hand-made, using small bobbins.

Brussles lace- is light and delicate, and also very expensive.

Chantilly lace- is fragile made on fine mesh, in web-like patterns. With scalloped edges.

Cluny lace- is made of fine linen thread, in open designs.

Cut-outs- are when the lace shows there is no fabric beneath.

Duchesse lace- is a type of bobbin lace with floral designs and raised work.

French lace- is machine made lace to simulate hand-made French lace.

Honiton lace- is similar to Duchesse, but is sewn to mesh fabric.

Guipure- heavy lace made on coarse mesh, with large patterns.

Renaissance- is a heavy, flat lace laid out in a pattern.

Rose-point lace- is fine lace with motifs of flowers and scrolls.

Schiffli embroidery- is machine-made lace, in very fine patterns.

Spanish- has a flat design of roses on net - used for mantillas.

Venise or Venetian point lace- is heavy cotton or linen lace.

A-line or Princess gown- has vertical seams from the shoulder to the hem. It has no waistline. These gowns are much like sheaths.

Ante-bellum waist- drops two inches from the natural waistline at sides to a point in the center front.

Apron overskirt- is joined at the back of the gown and falls across the front.

Asymmetrical waist- is when the fabric drops to one side of natural waist.

Ballerina skirt- is a full skirt of many layers, which reveals the ankles.

Ball Gown- is fitted from the shoulders to the waist, with a full skirt.

Basque gown- is fitted at the waist, forming a V in front.

Blouson bodice- has fullness above waist, drooping at or below the waist.

Bolero jacket-ends at or above the waistline, worn open in front.

Bouffant skirt- is full and flaring.

Bubble effect- is when the skirt is caught up and attached to the lining.

Circular skirt- attaches at waist and falls to a complete circle at the hem.

Drop waist- is long and straight to the waist of the gown, which falls several inches below your own waist, then full below.

Empire- style has a scooped neckline and a high waistline. The skirt falls from above your waist.

Fitted bodice- is form-fitting upper part of gown.

Flounce- is fabric, wider than a ruffle, gathered and attached to skirt.

Hoopskirt- is a very full skirt, held out with hoops under the fabric.

Keyhole- is a tear-shaped opening, referring to a neckline to back of gown.

Mermaid or Trumpet skirt- is tightly fitted from the waist to the knee (or slightly below) then flared.

Peplum- is a short flounce or overskirt attached at the waistline.

Raised waistline- is slightly above the natural waistline.

Redingote- is a dress or coat, belted, open along the front to reveal dress or petticoat.

Sheath dress- is a very narrow gown, with no waist.

Shirred waist- has gathered fabric to form a panel around the waist.

Tiered skirt- has a series of layers that fall in graduated lengths.

Tulip skirt- is a layered skirt which unfolds in the front.

Bateau/Sabrina- follows the collarbone along the top of your shoulders.

Bertha- collar is a cape of fabric or lace attached to neckline for shawl look.

Cameo- neckline had a decorative cameo at the center front.

Decolletage- neckline is a plunging V neckline, designed to flatter cleavage.

High collar or Wedding band collar- is a band which fits closely to the neck.

Jewel- collar has a high, round neckline.

Off the Shoulder gown- is below the shoulder, with sleeves.

Portrait neckline- is also off the shoulder, but has a band of fabric along the top, usually with no sleeves.

Queen Anne- neck is high at the back of the neck, falling away in the front to a sweetheart shape.

Queen Elizabeth- neck is high at the back of the neck, and falls to a point in front.

Scoop- neckline is rounded.

Strapless- neckline reveals the entire shoulders, usually worn with a jacket or wrap.

Sweetheart- neckline is shaped like the top half of a heart.

V-neck- is just that.

Balloon sleeve- is a very large puff sleeve, fitted at the elbow.

Bell sleeve- is narrow at the top and has a bell flare at the bottom.

Bishop sleeve- becomes fuller to the wrist, which is folded back to a wide cuff.

Bow sleeve- is worn on or off the shoulder, constructed of looped fabric.

Butterfly sleeve- is a wide, flaring, stiff sleeve, gives a cape effect.

Cap sleeve- is short and fitted.

Dolman sleeve- has a long armhole (sometimes from shoulder to waist) and is fitted at wrist for a cape look.

Double puff- has a band in the middle dividing puff into two.

Fitted sleeve- is full at shoulder then fitted at wrist.

Gibson sleeve- is full at shoulder then fitted at wrist.

Juliet sleeve- is long, fitted, with a puff at the top.

Leg-o-Mutton sleeves- are very full from the shoulder to the elbow, then fitted to the wrist.

Melon sleeve- is very full from the shoulder to elbow.

Peek-a-boo sleeve- is a puffed sleeve which reveals another fabric underneath.

Petal sleeve- is a short sleeve, with many layers.

Poet sleeve- is very full to the wrist.

Pointed sleeve- is a long fitted sleeve that falls to a point over the hand, and may attach to a finger.

Puff sleeve- is a short, full sleeve, gathered at the bottom. Three-quarter sleeve ends between elbow and the wrist.

Short- falls just above the knee.

Knee length- as it sounds, just covers the knee.

Ballerina or Mid-calf- falls between the knee and the ankle.

Tea length- has the hem several inches above the ankles.

Floor length- the hem barely sweeps the floor.

High/Low- is knee-length in the front, falling to floor-length in the back.

Attached- train which simply falls from the back end of the skirt. These are the most preferred by brides.

Watteau- train falls from the back yoke, or from around the waist.

Capelet- train falls from the back shoulder. After the ceremony, any of these styles can be bustled, or hooked up so that they are the same length as the back of the dress. This allows for easy movement.

Detachable- train begins at the waistline and can be removed.

Brush- train barely sweeps the floor as you walk.

Sweep- falls about six inches onto the floor, and is usually semi-formal.

Court- train extends one foot behind the gown.

Chapel- length falls up to twenty-two inches onto the floor.

Cathedral length- falls further than twenty-two inches in length. These are usually found at only the most formal weddings. Semi-cathedral are from 54 to 66 inches (from the waist), cathedral is from 78 to 90 inches, and extended cathedral is over twelve feet from the waist.

© Wedding Planner 2002