Finding the perfect fabric

Material matters when you’re making your wedding dress

Brocade

Brocades have rich weaves with raised designs, in either the same or contrasting colours. Rich and magnificent, brocades are perfect for heavier dresses with full skirts and trains, or for boned bodices. These fabrics are suitable for brides or perhaps matrons of honour, cloaks and gowns with a historical theme.

Tulle/embroidered tulle

Tulle is essentially fine mesh netting -- think tutus. Very light and usually worn in combination with other fabrics, it can complement crêpes or satins beautifully.

Velvet/dévoré

A plush material with a plain underside, velvet is often used for cloaks and historically themed dresses. The patterned version -- dévoré -- is great for slip dresses.