The key to selecting a fabulous wedding dress is in the fabrics.  Bridal gowns come in a wide variety of material.  The most common fabrics used are polyester or nylon satin, silk taffeta, polyester taffeta, crepe, organza, tulle, and bridal silk.  Two of the most expensive fabrics for purchase, is Bridal silk and taffeta.  However, they are well worth the purchase price.  I’m not real fond of polyester or nylon satin.  Seeing how it is the heaviest fabric of them all, it looks it.  Since it is also a synthetic material, it does not breathe well and can be very hot.  The only time I think that satin is an acceptable fabric for a bridal gown, is if the wedding happens to be in the late fall or winter time.  A flowing satin gown makes for a perfect Christmas wedding.  You’ll be glad to have it for the extra warmth it provides. 

I feel it is important to think about what fabric you’d like your gown to be, while thinking about what style, theme and when of the event.  It is also important to consider whether or not you are going to purchase a stock wedding gown, special order it or have it custom made.  Most special order, bridal gowns take twelve weeks to order.  To have the gown custom made can take even longer.  It is important that you consider your fabric selection prior to having a dress made.  Sometimes it can take awhile to find the right color or type of fabric to have your dress made in.  If you are thinking about having your dress made, taffeta, silk and satin should be your selection.  I’ve seen too many tailors mess up a dress job, and blame it on the fabric.  Fabrics such as crepe and organza are easy to snag.  In the rush to make the dress, tailors do not change their machine needles often enough to make a successful seam.  The fabric is often, (regrettably) snagged by a dull needlepoint.  These snags eventually cause runners across the entire material.  Runners you will be able to see a mile away. 

Silk and silk spun taffeta are my personal favorites in a wedding dress.  Nevertheless, many brides do not care for the rustling sound that taffeta makes when you move.  It is a crunchy starched fabric sound.  I personally love it.  It is the true sound quality and taste, only a fabric like taffeta will provide.  It is the preferred material for the upper elite and royal weddings.  It is legendary.