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Wedding Dress Terminology

A-Line: A silhouette characterized by a close-fitting bodice and waist with a flared hem.

Empire waistline: Shortened waist style from  attaching skirt to the bodice below bustline.

Corseted bodice: Fitted bodice usually reinforced with stays for support and detail.

Sheath: Straight, fitted gown, often floor length and worn with a detachable train.

Dropped waistline: Waistline positioned several inches below the natural waist.

Antebellum waistline: Dress with a tight fitting bodice, with a natural waistline that dips two inches to a point in the center.

Ball gown: Off-the-shoulder bodice accented by a natural waistline with a full skirt.

Queen Anne neckline: Sculptured design that is high on the back and sides with a heart-shaped, angled open bodice.

Sweetheart neckline: Open neckline that begins two inches inside the shoulder line and is shaped like a heart.

Bateau neckline: A boat-shaped neckline formed by a straight line between the shoulders, sometimes dipping in the front.

Halter neckline: Bodice that ties behind the neck, leaving arms, shoulders and back bare.

Sweep or brush train: The shortest train, barely touching the floor.

Chapel train: A train which extends about 1 1/3 yards from the waist.

Cathedral train: A train which cascades 2 ½ yards from the waist.

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