Wedding Dress Train guide
The train is perhaps the most distinctive part of a wedding dress. Originally intended to show one’s social status by how much material you could afford, today the bride’s choice of train is simply down to personal preference. Here is a brief guide to each type of train.
Brush
The most versatile type of train as it is also the shortest. It will not impose upon your wedding day like some of the grander train designs but will simply ‘brush’ the floor.
Court
At approximately 3 feet behind the waist, the Court train is still versatile but slightly longer than the Brush so may not be suitable for outdoor weddings.
Chapel
The Chapel train is a length midway between the longer and shorter types of train so will make an impact without appearing too grandiose.
Cathedral
Usually most appropriate for more formal weddings as it extends seven feet behind the waist and will require assistance to keep in order.
Royal
Fittingly called the ‘Royal’ this train is the longest of them all, and should only be worn for weddings in which a similarly grand theme runs throughout. So large it will span the aisle as you walk to the altar.
Watteau
The Watteau is quite different from other trains as it attaches from the top of one’s shoulders or the upper back of the bodice depending on the mood of the occasion.
(adapted from www.celebration.co.za)
