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Sheath wedding dresses

A sheath wedding dress follows a close-fitting line all the way down, with no flare. It’s the most minimalist silhouette in our collections, and not to be confused with the mermaid, which flares out below the knee.

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Sheath or mermaid: what’s the difference?

It’s the most common mix-up in bridal vocabulary, and it makes a real difference to the look. A sheath, also called a column dress, stays fitted from bust to hem in one straight, continuous line. A mermaid dress is fitted to the knee, then flares out clearly into a fishtail. The sheath is discreet and understated; the mermaid more dramatic and formal. If it’s that flare at the hem you love, head to our mermaid dresses.

Who suits a sheath dress?

It flatters tall, slender figures and lengthens the silhouette, as long as it isn’t cut in two by a wide belt. Unlike the mermaid, it adds no volume at the hem, which makes you look taller. It does call for confidence, though: the fabric follows the body all the way down and hides nothing.

Fabrics and comfort

A fitted wedding dress like the sheath is mostly made in crepe or satin, two fabrics that hang straight and hold their line without adding volume. Crepe is more matte and more comfortable over a long day; satin catches the light and feels more formal. Because the cut is so close-fitting, it limits your stride, so check at your fitting that you can manage stairs and sit down comfortably.

Not sure yet?

If the sheath appeals but you’re not completely convinced, two similar shapes are worth trying. The mermaid stays fitted to the knee, then adds a more dramatic flare. Flowy and straight dresses skim the body without constricting it and are more comfortable all day. Trying all three one after the other at a bridal shop is the quickest way to decide.