Ballgowns are such an iconic wedding dress shape. They’re grand, make a statement and are quintessentially bridal! While the shape has been around for generations, it has gone through different iterations. The 1950s ballgown wedding dress was what we would think of as a “cupcake” type of moment. The 1980s ballgown bridal gown was defined by volume, heavy lace and satin. We saw ballgowns in the 2010s done in a way that showed off texture in the skirts.
And now? Today’s modern ballgown is a combination of all of those elements!
We’re seeing more volume than ever (yes, please!) but in fabrics that don’t make your wedding dress weigh 40 pounds. We’re seeing texture done through modern laces. The basque waists of the 80s are being re-imagined to incorporate flattering waistlines and drop waist influences. The volume isn’t just being sewn all around the skirt – it’s being sewn and highlighted in specific places, such as the side waist, to give emphasis to our figures.
Strapless is back and in a big way and if you’ve been around here for any length of time, you’ll have heard me get on my strapless soap box and go through the reasons strapless wedding dresses aren’t, in fact, the devil. The great thing about a strapless wedding dress is also the ability to customize it. Our designers have made it so easy to add the exact style of strap or sleeve you love. You can also order the exact fabric from your dress and work with a seamstress to construct a completely custom strap!
The modern 2026 and 2027 ballgown covers such a variety of fullnesses and looks. Ballgown doesn’t just mean cupcake wedding dress anymore!