Bridal Terms Made Simple: Glossary of 30+ Dress Terms
- jmajors
- Sep 17
- 6 min read
If you feel overwhelmed with wedding dress shopping, and feel intimidated by all the industry specific terms, we got you! Here's a plain English guide by J. Major’s Bridal Boutique to help you understand the terms you’ll hear while finding the dress without the confusion or intimidation.
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Shopping & Ordering
Q: What does “off the rack” mean?
A: Buying the exact sample dress that’s in the boutique (as is) rather than placing a new order. Great for tight timelines or value hunters. See our designers hub for what’s currently in store.
Q: What’s a “sample sale”?
A: A limited time sale of floor samples (lightly tried on dresses) at steep discounts. Typically final sale and may have minor wear.
Q: What’s a “trunk show”?
A: A short event where a designer sends an expanded collection to our boutique same quality; more styles to try. Ask about upcoming dates for Jenny Yoo, Rosa Clará, Stella York, Watters, and Essense of Australia.
Q: “Special order” vs. “in stock”?
A: Special order = the designer makes a new gown in your size range and options.
In stock = we or the designer already have it on hand.
Q: What is “lead time”?
A: How long a special order gown takes to be made and shipped (often 4–7 months), plus alterations. Tight timeline? Ask about rush or off the rack.
Q: What’s a “rush order”?
A: Paying a fee so the designer finishes and ships your dress faster than standard timelines.
Q: What are “house rules” or “store policies”?
A: Our policies on payments, order changes, pickup, storage, returns, and alterations. Review these before purchasing.
Q: What’s a “loaner sample”?
A: A gown we request temporarily from a designer for your appointment if a specific size/color isn’t normally stocked.
Sizing & Fit
Q: Bridal size vs. street size, what’s the difference?
A: Bridal sizes often run smaller than everyday clothing. Your bridal size may be 1–2 numbers higher totally normal.
Q: What does “size chart” mean?
A: The designer’s measurement table (bust/waist/hip). We order the closest size that fits your largest measurement.
Q: What is “split sizing”?
A: Ordering one size for the bodice and another for the skirt (if allowed). Helpful when your measurements span sizes.
Q: What is “hollow to hem”?
A: A vertical measurement from the hollow of your neck to the floor, used to estimate dress length. We take it in the shoes/heel height you plan to wear.
Q: “Made to order” vs. “made to measure” vs. “bespoke”?
A: Made to order: standard size crafted for you. Made to measure: pattern adjusted to your measurements. Bespoke: fully custom pattern/design.
Q: What are “inclusive” or “plus” sizes?
A: Extended size ranges (often 18–32+). We carry a thoughtful selection of inclusive samples to try.
Silhouettes & Structure
Q: What are common silhouettes?
A: A line (fitted bodice, gentle flare), Ball Gown (full skirt), Fit and Flare (fitted through hip, gentle flare), Mermaid (flare at/below knee), Sheath (straight), Column (narrow).
Q: What is “corsetry” or “boning”?
A: Internal structure that supports the bodice and defines the waist.
Q: What does “understructure” mean?
A: Built‑in layers (lining, crinoline, horsehair trim) that shape the skirt and keep it flowing.
Q: “Illusion” vs. “unlined”?
A: Illusion: sheer mesh/tulle with lace or beading for a barely there look. Unlined: intentionally sheer areas without an opaque lining.
Q: What’s a “modesty panel”?
A: A lining panel that makes a plunging neckline or open back less revealing.
Q: Common necklines?
A: Sweetheart, Square, Scoop, V neck, Off the Shoulder, Bateau/Boat, Halter, High Neck.
Q: Sleeve terms I’ll hear?
A: Strapless, Spaghetti, Cap, Flutter, Short, ¾, Long, Bishop, Detachable sleeves.
Trains & Skirt Details
Q: Train lengths, what’s what?
A: Sweep (short), Chapel (popular/moderate), Cathedral (dramatic), Royal (very long).
Q: What’s a “bustle”?
A: Tailor sewn hooks/loops that lift your train after the ceremony so you can move and dance.
Q: “Detachable overskirt” or “removable train”?
A: Add on pieces that snap or hook over your gown for a two in one ceremony to reception look.
Fabrics, Lace & Embellishments
Q: Main bridal fabrics (quick guide)?
A: Crepe (clean, drapey), Chiffon (floaty), Organza (light, crisp), Tulle (airy), Satin (smooth, luminous), Mikado (structured satin), Charmeuse (liquid shine), Faille (ribbed, structured).
Q: Common lace types?
A: Chantilly (soft, delicate), Alençon (corded, defined edges), Guipure/Venise (bold, no net backing).
Q: What is an “appliqué”?
A: Lace or beaded motifs sewn onto the base fabric.
Q: Beading, sequins, embroidery, what’s the difference?
A: Decorative details for sparkle or texture; can be subtle or statement‑making.
Q: What is “horsehair braid”?
A: A flexible netting sewn into hems to add structure and a crisp, wavy edge.
Color, Lining & Skin Tones
Q: Are bridal gowns all “white”?
A: Most modern gowns are shades of ivory. “Diamond white” is slightly brighter. “Champagne,” “mocha,” “almond,” or “blush” usually refer to lining tones that warm or contrast the lace.
Q: What is “nude illusion”?
A: Sheer netting in a skin tone shade to create a floating‑lace or plunge effect, choose a tone that matches or intentionally contrasts your skin.
Q: “Lined” vs. “unlined” bodice?
A: Lined = opaque coverage; unlined = sheer with visible boning or lace. Many designers offer lining options.
Alterations & Appointments
Q: Will I need alterations?
A: Almost always. Expect hemming, straps/sleeves adjustments, bustle, and tailoring through bust/waist/hip for a custom fit.
Q: How many fittings are typical?
A: Usually 2–3 fittings over 4–8 weeks; more for complex customizations.
Q: First fit, second fit, final fit, what happens?
A: First: pin and plan. Second: refine. Final: confirm perfect fit and learn your bustle.
Q: What should I bring to fittings?
A: Wedding day shoes (heel height set!), undergarments/shapewear you plan to wear, and any accessories (veil, overskirt).
Q: Can I customize my gown?
A: Often yes, neckline changes, additional lining, adding/removing sleeves, extending train. Fees and feasibility vary by designer.
Accessories & Finishing Touches
Q: Veil “cut” vs. “edge”?
A: Cut = shape/length (fingertip, chapel, cathedral). Edge = finish (raw, ribbon, lace‑trim, beaded).
Q: What is a “blusher”?
A: A short front layer of a veil that can be worn over the face and then lifted.
Q: Toppers, capes, jackets, what are they?
A: Mix and match pieces that change coverage or style between ceremony and reception.
Q: Do I need special undergarments?
A: Many gowns include support; our stylists or your tailor can add cups, straps, or plunge‑friendly solutions if needed.
Care, Storage & After the Wedding
Q: Steaming vs. pressing vs. preservation, what’s the difference?
A: Steaming removes wrinkles. Pressing uses heat/pressure for crispness. Preservation is professional cleaning, repair, and boxing for long term storage.
Q: How should I store my gown before the wedding?
A: In a breathable garment bag, hanging by loops, away from sun/pets. Lay flat for heavy ball gowns if advised.
Q: What’s included in “preservation kits”?
A: Professional cleaning, minor repairs, acid‑free boxing, and a viewing window, great for heirlooming.
Budget & Logistics
Q: What’s typically included in the dress price?
A: The gown itself. Alterations, customizations, rushes, accessories, and preservation are separate.
Q: Do boutiques offer payment plans or deposits?
A: Many take a deposit (often 50–60%) on order and the balance when the gown arrives. Ask about timelines and accepted payment methods.
Q: Are special orders returnable?
A: Usually final sale because they’re made for you. Confirm policies in writing.
Pro Tips (Before Your First Appointment)
Timeline: Shop 9–12 months out if you can; add 6–10 weeks for alterations. Tight timeline? Ask about off the rack and rush options.
Shoes/Height: Decide heel height early; it sets your hollow to hem and hem work.
Sizing: Order to your largest measurement; it’s easier to tailor smaller than bigger.
Photos & Notes: Bring inspo, but keep an open mind, fabrics and silhouettes read differently on real bodies.
Decision Energy: If you love it and it fits your vision and budget, it’s enough. The perfect dress is the one you don’t want to take off.
Why J. Major’s Bridal Boutique (Charlotte, NC)
As a family owned boutique in South End, Charlotte, we curate designers like Jenny Yoo, Rosa Clará, Stella York, Watters, and Essense of Australia, with inclusive sizing and an unhurried, personalized experience. Ready to get started? Book your appointment today.
