CLOUDS OF TULLE

Vera Wang

What could say bridal more than a cloud of soft tulle? Defined, tulle is a fine mesh netting with a hexagonal pattern that comes in silk, cotton, nylon or acrylic/silk for power netting. Tulle is familiar because its the standard material for bridal veils. But did you know it comes in lighter versions and is used in bouffant skirts. The one pictured above proffers that ballerina look Vera Wang popularized a few years back? While the big tulle skirt is classic, edgier versions of late suggest special effects like draping, ruching and pick-up treatments over more modified skirt silhouettes. There are many different tulles and uses of it. Below are some stunning examples.

Vera WangVera Wang loves tulle. This confection is swathed in white tulle over pink rose appliques to look like a parfait. Joyce YoungFlorals applied to a tulle skirt and bodice

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Next three photos show the variations on embroidered tulles

Claire Pettibone

Pronovias

Elie Saab

Donna SaladoAnother pink confection using yards of lightweight pink tulle.

David Fielden

Neil Cunningham

The ecru tulle here covers the dress with two different applications: the top is draped and ruched; the skirt, gathered . . .Even the Kronishka on top has small tulle ruffles . . . Scott Williams Photography

Gown by Amy-Jo TatumA hook-on and off tulle overskirt

Jasper Conran Just the wrap here is tulle. . . .

sourceThis gorgeous mantilla is tulle bordered with Chantilly lace

Stephanie Williams Photography

Hat by Amy-Jo Tatum

Tulle isn't just for veils. This horsehair picture hat is wrapped entirely in it . . .

sourceAnd of course we can't forget tulle is used under your dress usually atop crinoline to get the bouncy effect of volume. The images above adds some color to the mix. Trendy now is layering different textures and tones under the gown to create something visually stunning when you move . . . This inspiration board was emailed to me via a client who wants to jazz up the look underneath her dress.

Spose di GioThe Spose di Gio gown above is signature. Many di Gio gowns are noted for the use of power netting on bodice and sleeves. Power net is also known as tulle and illusion. While Vera Wang didn't invent illusion necklines and sleeve treatments, she did introduce the bridal industry to a more comfortable, less scratchy version that allows for freer movement. Power netting once used by ice skaters and dancers, is now standard for see-through tops and tight sleeves on bridal wear.

Thanks Vera . . . .

David FieldenNo ladies, its not impractical to plan for a tulle gown if you're getting married in late Fall or Winter. While tulle does have that ethereal persona of Spring, it whips up nicely into a Winter Wonderland style fantasy like the David Fielden stunner above. Remember, all it really takes to winterize the skimpiest of gowns is a few really great accessories like a warm wrap, a muff and gloves.So what more could you ask for . . .?

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