Chiffon Bridesmaid Dresses in Fog | Sharaya D’Anna Photography

What is the Difference Between Chiffon and Tulle?

There is a very big difference between chiffon and tulle bridesmaid dresses. Both fabrics are beautiful but have their own merits. But which one is right for you and the vision you have for your wedding? There are pros and cons to every type of fabric, but the most debated are chiffon vs. tulle. These materials are two of the most common fabrics used to create bridesmaid dresses. 

At Kennedy Blue, we offer high-quality designs for every type of bride and bridesmaid, with a multitude of styles and colors. To help you differentiate between chiffon and tulle, and to come to a confident buying decision, we’re breaking down the difference between these popular materials. Plus, we’ll share some of our best-selling chiffon bridesmaid dresses!

What is Tulle?

Tulle is a mesh fabric that is used in a lot of different types of clothing but is especially popular in the wedding industry. It is used to make wedding veils, as well as wedding dresses, usually for skirts. Tulle dresses usually have one or two under layers as tulle is rather sheer on its own. In comparison to chiffon, tulle has more flow. It moves better, to lend an airy or dreamy look. This makes it a popular choice amongst brides who prefer a more romantic or ethereal vibe.

Slate Blue Bridesmaid Dresses | Meggy D Photography

Why We Don’t Recommend Tulle Bridesmaid Dresses

With so many bridesmaid dress fabric options to choose from, we find it hard to recommend tulle to our brides. Everything sticks to tulle. Dirt, dust, grass, leaves, and anything else can get caught in the woven net of tulle fabric. We’ve even heard of bugs getting stuck to tulle bridesmaid dresses.

Tulle also snags and tears easily. The net of this fabric makes it easy to get caught on things and simultaneously makes it difficult to repair. Bridesmaids are running around helping the bride, sitting and standing, and dancing throughout the night. Unlike the bride, the bridesmaids don’t typically have the option to change their dress after the ceremony so they need a dress that can withstand a whole days’ worth of activities.

If you’re set on tulle, it’s still an option for bridesmaid dresses. There are fewer options, but they still exist! Tulle is dreamy, lightweight, and feminine. It still may be the best option for a woman who wants a soft and romantic yet traditional bridal style.

What is Chiffon?

Chiffon refers to a wide variety of different types of fabrics that all share similar qualities. Chiffon is comparable in quality to silk, but much easier to clean and care for. Chiffon is made from a simple weave and has a light and airy effect. This elegant fabric is mostly used for upscale garments like wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, and evening wear. 

Chiffon Bridesmaid Dresses in Rosewood | Tonya Hjort Photography

Reasons to Choose Chiffon Instead of Tulle Bridesmaid Dresses

Chiffon is more popular than tulle in regards to bridesmaid dresses. It’s softer and smoother than tulle and usually only requires one to two layers since it’s a more opaque fabric. Below are some important reasons chiffon is our favorite bridesmaid dress fabric!

1. Your Bridesmaid Dress Color Is Already Set (& Not Available in Tulle)

Chiffon bridesmaid dresses tend to come in significantly more colors than tulle. If you have a certain color that you’re set on, chiffon will likely be for you. Kennedy Blue chiffon bridesmaid dresses come in 44+ stunning colors!

2. You Want to Stick to Wedding Traditions

If you want your bridesmaids to have the traditional bridal style, chiffon is your answer. The material is more smooth and less sheer than tulle, for a slightly more sophisticated look. Chiffon bridesmaid dresses offer a timeless wedding look that you (and your girls) will look back on with pride for years to come. 

3. Fitted Bridesmaid Dresses are Your Style

Chiffon bridesmaid dresses are available in so many different styles, including stylish form-fitting designs. If you’re looking for dresses that will hug your bridesmaids’ curves, chiffon is a great option. Tulle bridesmaid dresses are not available in fitted styles, since they are made of a flowy, more voluminous fabric. Therefore, if your goal is a slightly sexier look, chiffon is the best option.

4. Your Bridesmaids Are Wearing Different Dress Styles

Chiffon bridesmaid dresses are typically offered in more styles and colors than tulle, simply because chiffon is more popular. Chiffon is perfect if you want to let your bridesmaids choose different styles of dresses in the same fabric. Kennedy Blue has over 100 different styles of chiffon bridesmaid dresses for your bridesmaids to choose from!

5. You’re Having an Outdoor or Destination Wedding

Chiffon bridesmaid dresses are more durable, easier to repair, and more packable than tulle bridesmaid dresses. Tulle bridesmaid dresses are not advised for outdoor weddings because they snag, tear, and stick.

Chiffon Bridesmaid Dresses in Fawn | Taylor Marie Parker Photography

Our Favorite Chiffon Bridesmaid Dresses (That Are Just as Flowy as Tulle)

Chiffon is the perfect alternative to tulle because it’s nearly as lightweight, just as flowy, and much more practical. We chose some of our favorite chiffon bridesmaid dresses that will give the same romantic and ethereal affect as tulle. Your bridesmaids will be able to twirl around all night in any of these flowy chiffon bridesmaid dresses.

Brittany: Modest and Romantic V-Neck Bridesmaid Dress

Brittany Chiffon Bridesmaid Dress in Sage

Brittany is one of our most popular chiffon bridesmaid dresses, especially among plus-size bridesmaids. The ruching on the bodice of this elegant dress mimics the romantic texture of tulle. Bridesmaids of any shape or size will appreciate the comfort of having a full length, slitless skirt and supportive shoulder straps.

Summer: Modern and Unique Accordion Skirt Bridesmaid Dress

Summer Chiffon Bridesmaid Dress in French Lilac

The reason people love tulle is for its ethereal femininity. Summer shows just how easily chiffon can beat tulle at its own game. This dress features a unique accordian style skirt that adds depth to the dress. The deep plunging neckline and spaghetti straps will help your bridesmaids feel sexy on your big day.

Allison: Whimsical Strapless Bridesmaid Dress

Allison Chiffon Bridesmaid Dress in Sea Glass

Allison has a double layered ruffle neckline and sleeves that will make your bridesmaids feel like a fairy princess. The off-the-shoulder sleeves are optional so that this dress can easily convert into a completely sleeveless look. This dress has the same multi-layered look as a tulle bridesmaid dress without the hassle of tulle fabric.

Jenna: Ruched Bodice Bridesmaid Gown

Jenna Chiffon Bridesmaid Dress in Blush

One of our most regal bridesmaid dresses is Jenna. This gorgeous chiffon dress features off the shoulder sleeves that remind us of a princess gown. The criss crossed ruching on the bodice creates a depth and texture similar to tulle. Bridesmaids love that this dress has a flattering shape and neckline while also being modest and comfortable. 

Athena: One Shoulder Bridesmaid Dress

Athena Chiffon Bridesmaid Dress in Champagne

A one-shouldered look is a simple way for any bridesmaid to stand out on wedding day. The asymmetrical neckline on Athena is covered in thin ruching. The high neckline and slitless skirt will keep bridesmaids feeling secure and covered, even on the dance floor. The textured bodice and flowy skirt make this dress even more ethereal than any tulle option. 

Kristen: Structured Bodice Bridesmaid Dress

Kristen Chiffon Bridesmaid Dress in Blossom

Kristen is a romantic chiffon bridesmaid dress with a structured bodice. The subtle criss cross fabric pattern accentuates the modest v-neckline. This dress is a simple and classic choice. This floor-length dress delicately sweeps along the ground, which would be a disaster for a tulle skirt. Not only is Kristin a timeless look, it’s also flattering on many different body types.

Emmy: Delicate Ruffle Bridesmaid Dress

Emmy Chiffon Bridesmaid Dress in Desert Rose

The delicate ruffle details on our Emmy chiffon bridesmaid dress offer the same feminine vibes as tulle. The light and airy look and feel of this dress make it perfect for a warm outdoor wedding. Thin straps, a v-back, and a long flowing skirt will have your bridesmaids feeling lovely all day. 

Courtney: Flutter Sleeve Bridesmaid Dress

Courtney Chiffon Bridesmaid Dress in French Lilac

Courtney may be one of our most whimsical chiffon bridesmaid dresses! The fluttery sleeves, romantic leg slit, and cute waist tie all create a romantic look. This stunning dress pulls off the dainty and flowy look better than any tulle bridesmaid dress. 

Looking for More Alternatives to Tulle Bridesmaid Dresses?

If you’re still figuring out which bridesmaid dress fabric is right for your wedding we have a few tips. Try going shopping and comparing a few different fabrics in person. If you don’t have time to shop, order a few bridesmaid dress fabric swatches online so you can get an idea of the differences between the options. We also recommend looking at wedding photos with different types of dresses in different lighting so you can get an idea of how each fabric photographs.

If you’re not feeling the chiffon or the tulle bridesmaid dress looks, you can always go with another fun fabric. Satin bridesmaid dresses are beautiful all year long, especially for more casual weddings. Velvet bridesmaid dresses are a great texture addition to fall and winter weddings.

Prefer a more glam look for your big day? You want to miss our sequin bridesmaid dresses! These trendy designs are perfect for a bride who wants to make a statement. They lend a sense of elegance and opulence that simply can’t be beat. Not to mention they make the color of the dress POP!

Stunning Sequin Bridesmaid Dresses for Every Season | Natalie McIntire Photography