Choosing the perfect bridesmaid robes and bridal wear can be a daunting task, with so many options to choose from. One of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting the right fabric. Different fabrics have their own advantages and disadvantages, and it’s important to understand what each fabric has to offer so you don’t regret your choices afterward. Take a look at these kinds of fabrics designers highly consider when making bridal dresses:
Charmeuse
Charmeuse has a smooth, satin-like finish on one side and a matte finish on the other. It is a lightweight, soft, and smooth fabric with a satin-like finish that drapes beautifully on the body. One of the main advantages of charmeuse fabric is its versatility and easy care requirements. It can be used for a variety of styles, from traditional to modern, and is perfect for both formal and informal weddings.
However, charmeuse may not be as durable as other fabrics and may show signs of wear and tear over time. It is also prone to snagging and can be easily damaged by jewelry or other sharp objects. Additionally, charmeuse fabric can be relatively expensive.
Crepe
Crepe fabric comes with a matte finish and a slightly textured surface and is a good option for summer weddings as it is lightweight and comfortable. It is available in a wide range of colors and styles, making it easy to match with any wedding theme. It also has a soft and silky texture that feels luxurious against the skin. Compared to other high-end fabrics like silk or satin, it is relatively affordable.
However, being delicate, crepe can be prone to wrinkling, so it may require steaming or ironing before the wedding. It may require special care when cleaning and storing.
Chiffon
Just like crepe, chiffon fabric is a good choice for summer weddings too as it allows for breathability and movement. It is a very versatile fabric that can be used for a variety of different styles, from flowy and romantic to sleek and modern, and has a wide range of colors and patterns. The fabric drapes beautifully, adding a soft and elegant touch to any bridal dress or bridesmaid robes set of 6.
However, it is not always the best choice for colder weather, as it is not as warm as other fabrics. Just like most fabrics in this list, chiffon requires special washing and care too as the fabric can really be prone to wrinkling.
Jersey
Jersey fabric can be really stretchy, comfortable, and body-fitting. The fabric is lightweight, easy to move around and about, and easy to care for, as it is machine washable and requires minimal ironing. It is less pricey than other fabrics and comes in various colors and styles.
However, jersey fabric can be prone to wrinkling, which may require extra attention during the ceremony. It is also less durable than other fabrics, such as silk or satin, which may not hold up as much over time. Moreover, it may not be as breathable as other fabrics, making the wearer feel hot and uncomfortable.
Lace
Lace fabric is a popular choice for bridal wear and bridesmaid robes due to its delicate and romantic appearance. This fabric’s biggest advantage lies in its timeless elegance and versatility, aside from its being lightweight and comfortable to wear.
This fabric surpasses the price of pure silk as it is made of high-quality materials such as French or Italian lace. As it can easily tear or snag, it requires the most gentle care. Lace is usually paired with other fabrics, such as silk or satin, to create a beautiful contrast. The more volume you require for your bridal dress, the more expensive it can be, so if you opt for a revealing look, lace can be a good fit.
Mikado
Mikado fabric is known for its luxurious and elegant appearance. It is made from a blend of silk and polyester, giving it a smooth and glossy finish. Its durability and wrinkle resistance, ensuring that the gown or robe will maintain its structured silhouette throughout the event, makes it perfect for long wedding days and outdoor ceremonies. This fabric has the ability to drape beautifully, creating a flattering and feminine look for the bride and bridesmaids.
Its biggest downside is its heavy weight and less breathability which makes it less comfortable for the bride and bridesmaids to wear for extended periods of time. Just like lace, it can be really more pricey than other fabrics, which may not be a good choice for you if you are on a tight budget and prioritize comfort over appearance.
Satin
Satin is recognized for its lustrous shine, capturing the character of pure silk, which adds a touch of glamour to any bridal ensemble. Its smoothness and draping abilities make it a great choice for fitted or flowy gowns. Satin robes can be very durable, which is why if you are looking for a long-lasting bridesmaid gift, you should highly consider satin fabric.
A disadvantage to this fabric is that it can be quite slippery, making it difficult to walk in or move around comfortably. It can be prone to wrinkling and creasing too, and may require steaming or ironing before the big day.
Silk
If you want your lady entourage and yourself to feel like royalty for the day, silk is your best choice. It has a smooth, soft texture that drapes beautifully on the body, creating a flattering and sophisticated look. It is made of strong and long-lasting material that can withstand the wear and tear of a wedding day. Additionally, silk is a natural, breathable fabric that is comfortable to wear, even in warm weather.
On the downside, silk can be quite expensive, making it a less accessible option for some brides and bridesmaids. It is a delicate fabric that may really require special care, such as dry cleaning and storing in a cool, dry place. Silk is not always wrinkle-resistant too, so it may require steaming or ironing before the wedding.
Organza
Organza is a lightweight, sheer fabric that is made from silk or nylon, elegant, and delicate. It is highly versatile, as it is very easy to work with and can be shaped and formed into different designs, and can be used for both formal and casual events. Plus, it is a relatively affordable fabric option, making it accessible for many brides.
But this fabric tends to wrinkle easily, requiring ironing or steaming prior to wearing, and can easily tear or snag. It may not be suitable for warmer climates too as it is not very breathable.
Weigh the pros and cons of the fabric first before you dive into a bridal dressmaking project or order robes for your bridesmaids, especially if you want you and your wedding ensemble to keep those attire for yourselves, to be reused not just for the ceremony.
