12 Terms Every Bride Should Know When Shopping for Your Dress in 2025

At Coreena’s Bridal, we believe your dress journey should be as magical as the day itself. Knowing the terms behind all those dazzling options can make finding the one a breeze and fun. Let’s break down these essential bridal buzzwords so you can shop like a pro. 

Ballgown: Dreaming of a Cinderella moment? Ballgowns are the ultimate in drama with a fitted bodice and a voluminous, floor-sweeping skirt. Whether you’re walking down the aisle of a cathedral or dancing under the stars, this classic style makes you feel like royalty. Bonus: it’s great for twirling photos. 

A-line: If you’re looking for elegance without the princess poof, A-line dresses are your best friend. With a skirt that gently flares from the waist, this universally flattering style offers just the right mix of structure and flow. Think timeless romance that works for any venue.

Fitted Styles: Sheath features clean lines and an effortless chic design that hugs your frame, creating a minimalist, modern vibe that lets your natural beauty shine. Perfect for garden parties or beach weddings. Mermaid is for the bold bride who loves her curves. This silhouette clings to your body down to the knees, then flares out for a dramatic effect. Trumpet is similar to the mermaid but with a softer flare at the thighs, giving you freedom to move while still showing off your figure.

Fit to Flare: Think of this as the Goldilocks of wedding dresses. It hugs your curves through the bodice and hips, then releases into a soft, flattering flare below. It’s a great compromise for brides torn between fitted and flowy.

Illusion Bodice: The illusion comes from sheer fabrics adorned with intricate lace, beading, or embroidery. It creates a look that’s subtly sexy yet elegant, as if the embellishments are floating on your skin. Ideal for brides who want a touch of magic.

Lined Bodice: For brides preferring a polished, modest vibe, the lined bodice offers full coverage without sacrificing style. Often paired with luxurious fabrics like satin or lace, it gives a structured, regal feel that’s perfect for classic ceremonies.

Exposed Boning: This edgy trend highlights the inner structure of your dress, with visible corset boning on the bodice. It’s a nod to vintage fashion but with a modern twist, offering both support and a chic aesthetic that’s bold yet feminine.

Train: Your train adds that extra wow factor as you glide down the aisle. Options include sweep, which is just a whisper of a train that barely brushes the floor, chapel for a grand look without being overwhelming, and cathedral for ultimate regal vibes.

Veil Lengths: A veil is more than an accessory. Fingertip veils are elegant and versatile, reaching just to your hands. Knee-length veils add a playful yet sophisticated touch. Waltz veils flow gracefully between your knees and ankles, while cathedral veils are long and striking, pairing beautifully with bold gowns.

Appliqué: These decorative details can transform a gown from pretty to breathtaking. Beaded appliqués add sparkle and glamour, lace brings texture and timeless romance, and 3D designs create artistic, blooming florals that stand out for fashion-forward brides.

Off-the-Shoulder: Straps lightly resting on your upper arm frame your neckline beautifully while adding a modern, romantic flair. Sleeves offer a vintage-inspired twist that brings sophistication and are perfect for cooler seasons.

Petticoat: Ever wonder how those ballgowns stay so full and floaty? Enter the petticoat. This fluffy underskirt adds volume to your dress, helping you achieve that fairytale silhouette. Bonus: they make spinning even more fun.

Ready to bring these terms to life? At Coreena’s Bridal, we’re here to help you find your dream dress with plenty of style, smiles, and sparkle. Book your appointment today and let’s create your bridal magic.