Wedding dress fabrics: satin, tulle, lace, crepe and more

Structured fabrics

• —Satin — a smooth, lustrous weave with weight. It holds structured silhouettes, catches light beautifully and suits formal and evening weddings. It shows creases more than textured fabrics.
• —Mikado — a heavier, slightly textured silk-blend with a soft sheen. Ideal for sculpted bodices, clean ball gowns and architectural shapes.
• —Crepe — a matte fabric with a fine grain and fluid drape. Clean, modern and forgiving for sheath and column dresses.

Light and airy fabrics

• —Tulle — fine netting layered to build volume without weight. The classic fabric for full skirts and veils.
• —Organza — sheer like tulle but crisper, with a gentle sheen. It gives volume that floats rather than flops.
• —Chiffon — soft, sheer and flowing. Lovely for beach and warm-weather weddings; it moves with every breeze.

Lace and embellishment

Lace comes in many weights — fine Chantilly, corded Alençon, heavier guipure — and can be the whole gown or an overlay on sleeves and bodice. Beading and appliqué add sparkle and depth. Hand-applied lace and beading take far more work, which is why they usually sit higher in price, and they need a skilled tailor when the dress is altered.

Choosing for the Bay Area

Bay Area weather changes fast. Coastal and San Francisco ceremonies are often cool and breezy, so satin, mikado or long lace sleeves feel right. Inland vineyard and South Bay garden weddings can be hot in summer and early fall — tulle, organza and chiffon breathe better. If your day goes from a warm afternoon to a cool evening, a structured gown with a light layer or a second look covers both.