Wedding gowns have MANY options for different types of straps or sleeves. Let’s take a look at some of those options:
Strapless
Strapless dresses are just as they sound - no straps to hold them up. Instead, the dress is held up with good structure and construction (think boning!) and stays up best if it’s altered to be a bit snug at the waist. These dresses have a higher back. A strapless dress can have a variety of necklines.
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Off-the-Shoulder Sleeves
Off-the-shoulder sleeves come in a couple different varieties - a more fitted, tailored look, and a softer, more romantic draped sleeve. Because these do not sit on the shoulder, they don’t add any support. In fact, the draped version is often detachable! Off-the-shoulder sleeves can be just a delicate drape or they can be a full long sleeve.
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Spaghetti Straps
Spaghetti straps are thin, delicate straps. They do not carry a lot of the weight of the dress, and again, the dress is mostly supported by the structure of the bodice. Although they generally aren’t an integral part of the construction of the dress, they do often give brides the feeling of a little extra support and security. Spaghetti straps (and straps of all kinds) allow for low backs on the gowns.
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Halter Straps
A halter strap comes up from the front of the dress and wraps around the neck to either clasp together or tie. This style offers some security while still baring your shoulders, and often results in a low, open backless style dress or has some type of interesting back detail.
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Tank Straps
A tank strap is just as it sounds - similar to a standard tank top! These straps range from about one inch to several inches wide. Unlike spaghetti straps, tank straps are part of the structural integrity of the dress, and do bear some of the weight of the gown. These straps are often favored by women that want to feel more secure and supported. Tank straps are most often seen with a v-neckline, a square neckline, or a scoop neckline.
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Cap Sleeves/Short Sleeves
Cap sleeves or short sleeves are a great option for a bride that may want a little more coverage. These sleeves are similar to a t-shirt or blouse. Between the two, cap sleeves are more common for wedding gowns. A cap sleeve gets its name from forming a delicate “cap” over the edge of the shoulder.
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Long Sleeves
Of course, for our winter brides, many wedding gowns have long sleeves. Most often, the sleeves are made out of illusion netting and have lace appliques. Many of the sleeves also have buttons at the cuff. Long sleeves on wedding gowns come in two main categories - a tightly fitted sleeve, or a looser, more flowy or “puffy” sleeve.
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Detachable Sleeves
As briefly mentioned above, some dresses have the option of detachable sleeves! There are several different types of detachable sleeves, including everything from a regular long sleeve that attaches at the shoulder, to a pull-on long sleeve that stays on around the upper arm, to just a small detachable drape sleeve that buttons or snaps onto the dress. Many strapless dresses even have the option of detachable spaghetti straps, too!
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We always suggest trying on a variety of sleeve and strap options when you’re first starting to try on gowns! You never know what you’re going to like the best when it comes to a formal gown. We can’t wait to help you decide how you feel most beautiful!