Bridal Gown Trains

A train can completely transform your look, no matter what shape your dress is. It allows you to change the feel of your outfit from ceremony to reception. The train is simply the elongated back portion of the gown that lies on the floor and trails behind the bride, the added weight demanding a tall and majestic stance. Trains date from the Middle Ages, when the length worn at court indicated a person's social rank. The premise being the wealthier you were, the more fabric you could afford.

From shortest to longest:

Sweeping Train
This is the shortest of the trains and is also called a brush train because it just brushes the floor. Usually, the back hem is only a few inches lower than the front hem. It is perfect for an elegant informal or semi-formal wedding gown.

The court train
This train is slightly longer than the brush, extending approximately 3 feet behind the waist.

Chapel Length Train
This is currently the most common train because it has the elegance of a full train but is still not overly cumbersome. A chapel train is generally 1 1/3 yards or 4 feet from the waistline. This is perfect for a semi-formal wedding gown but could be used for a formal or informal wedding gown as well.

Cathedral Length Train
This is a popular choice for a formal affair or for that fairy tale look. A cathedral train is generally 2 1/2 yards or 7 1/2 feet from the waistline and is usually used for a formal wedding. These gowns often come with a bustling option or a removable train to allow for better movement on the dance floor.