FAYE

The Modern Appeal of Tulle Wedding Dresses

Tulle wedding dresses continue to symbolise romance and elegance, with today’s brides embracing this fabric in fresh, contemporary ways. Tulle’s lightweight, fine texture offers versatility, making it perfect for modern bridal designs. While it originated in 18th-century France, its influence on wedding fashion started when Queen Victoria chose a tulle veil for her 1840 wedding, setting a trend that still resonates today. For the modern bride, it’s less about history and more about how tulle can elevate their unique style.
In the current bridal fashion scene, tulle is celebrated for its ability to create dreamy, romantic silhouettes with a modern twist. Whether crafted from silk, nylon, or polyester, each type of tulle brings something different (BRIDES). Silk tulle is prized for its softness and luxurious feel, making it a favourite for veils and delicate overlays. Nylon tulle, on the other hand, is structured and perfect for creating voluminous skirts that are light and comfortable to wear (True Society).
Iconic dresses of the past, like Grace Kelly’s 1956 gown or Princess Diana’s 1981 dress, have helped establish tulle as a timeless fabric in bridal fashion. Today’s designers push the boundaries by incorporating tulle in new, exciting ways.
Layered tulle skirts remain popular, providing brides with voluminous yet lightweight designs that feel dramatic and easy to wear. The fabric is also used creatively to craft illusion details—think sheer necklines, sleeves, or backs giving the appearance of lace or embroidery floating delicately on the skin. Coloured tulle is another trend gaining momentum, with shades like blush, champagne, and pastel blues offering a fresh, modern alternative to the classic white wedding dress (BIANCO).
When selecting a tulle wedding dress, today’s brides are savvy about fabric quality and texture. High-quality tulle feels soft and drapes beautifully, offering comfort and elegance throughout the day. Meanwhile, lower-quality tulle can be stiff and less forgiving, so it’s important to choose a dress that balances volume with a flattering silhouette.
Tulle’s ongoing appeal lies in its versatility and timeless elegance. Whether featured in a traditional ball gown or a sleek, contemporary design, tulle adds an unmistakable touch of romance to any wedding dress. This fabric remains a favourite in New Zealand wedding dress fashion, offering brides the perfect blend of history, style, and sophistication for their special day. Today, tulle is more relevant than ever, proving that some classics never go out of style.