The Bridal Glossary

Every term your dress consultant will use — so you walk in speaking their language. (Your VowLook vendor brief uses these exact terms.)

Silhouettes

A-line: Fitted bodice flowing out gently from the waist in the shape of an “A.” The most universally flattering bridal silhouette.
Ballgown: Dramatic full skirt with a defined waist — maximum ceremony, loves a tall frame and a grand venue.
Mermaid: Hugs the body through the hips and flares below the knee. Built to celebrate curves.
Trumpet: Like mermaid but flares higher, mid-thigh — easier to walk in, same drama.
Sheath / Column: A clean vertical line with minimal structure. Modern, elegant, celebrates athletic and straight figures.
Fit-and-flare: Fitted through the waist and hips, flaring at the thigh — the middle ground between A-line ease and mermaid drama.
Empire: Waistline sits just under the bust with a long flow — lengthens petite frames beautifully.
Tea-length: Hem falls between knee and ankle. Playful, vintage, perfect for city hall and garden parties.

Sweetheart: Curved like the top of a heart — softens angular shoulders, classic bridal romance.
Off-the-shoulder: Sleeves sit below the shoulder line — romantic and collarbone-flattering.
Bateau (boat neck): A wide, elegant line skimming the collarbones — think grace-kelly refinement.
Illusion: Sheer fabric (tulle/lace) creating a “floating” effect over the décolletage — coverage without weight.
Halter: Straps wrap the neck, baring shoulders — loves strong shoulders and backless moments.
Square: Straight horizontal line with right angles — modern structure that balances petite frames.
V-neck: Elongates the neck and torso — deep or subtle, it adds vertical line.
High neck: Covers to the collarbone or above — modest, dramatic, often paired with illusion lace.

Mikado: A heavy silk blend with structure and subtle sheen — architectural gowns, winter weddings.
Crepe: Matte, fluid, skims the body — the minimalist's fabric of choice.
Organza: Crisp and sheer with body — holds volume while staying light. Summer ballgowns.
Tulle: The fine netting of fairy-tale skirts and veils — airy volume, zero weight.
Charmeuse: Liquid-shine satin that drapes close — glamorous, unforgiving, gorgeous.
Chiffon: Weightless, sheer, moves with the breeze — the beach and garden staple.
Duchess satin: Thick, lustrous, regal — holds a ballgown shape like nothing else.

Undertone: The warm (golden), cool (pink/blue) or neutral cast beneath your skin — it decides your shade of white. Take our free quiz to find yours.
Ivory: White with a whisper of cream — the safest shade for warm and most neutral undertones.
Champagne: Ivory deepened with gold — glows on warm and olive skin.
Bustle: Buttons or hooks that lift the train for dancing — arranged at your final fitting.
Trunk show: A designer's full collection visiting a boutique for a weekend — call ahead, samples go fast.
Muslin / toile: The plain test version of a made-to-measure gown — where fit decisions happen.
Vendor brief: A one-page spec of your look in industry terms — what VowLook writes for you, and what makes consultants take you seriously.