While there are many wedding dress silhouettes to choose from, two of the most popular are ballgown wedding dresses and princess wedding dresses. Both are beautiful for the bride looking for a regal wedding dress, but what are the differences between the two? Keep reading to learn more about ballgown vs. princess wedding dresses, styles fit for royalty!
What is a Princess Wedding Dress? What is a Ballgown Wedding Dress?
Princess wedding dresses are synonymous with A-line styles, which feature a fitted bodice and a skirt that flares out, usually at the natural waist, to create an “A shape.”
Ballgown wedding dresses also feature a fitted bodice with a full, voluminous skirt. They sometimes have dramatic trains as well for a regal, show-stopping look.
What are the Main Differences Between Ballgown vs. Princess?
While both ballgown vs. princess wedding dresses can be similar, these stunning silhouettes have a few key differences:
- Princess style wedding dresses are less voluminous in the skirt. Because of this, a princess wedding dress can be made of fabrics that have less structure, like chiffon, which also makes them excellent choices for outdoor weddings. A ballgown style wedding dress is likely to be made of fabrics with more structure, such as satin, lace or tulle, and tends to be heavier to wear, although princess style dresses can be made of these fabrics as well. You can learn more in our Ultimate Guide to Wedding Dress Fabrics.
- Princess bridal gowns are universally flattering for all body types. However, petite brides may have difficulty finding the ideal ballgown, as the fuller skirts characteristic of this silhouette may overwhelm their smaller frames. Similarly, those with a larger bust may opt for a princess wedding dress, which doesn’t add substantial fullness to the upper body.
- Both ballgowns and princess wedding dresses feature a variety of necklines, sleeves and strap styles. Wearing a strap or sleeve may provide additional support for those choosing a ballgown in a heavy fabric like beaded satin.
Continue reading to see a few of our favorite wedding dresses in both silhouettes! Ballgown vs. princess wedding dresses.
Princess Wedding Dresses
Sparkly Princess Wedding Dress
Sparkly wedding dresses are a showstopping choice for the bride with a princess bridal style who wants to turn heads all night long! Martina Liana Luxe Style LE1104 may be the princess gown of your dreams! The clean off-the-shoulder neckline is sweet, feminine and oh-so-regal and complements the subtle sheerness of the bodice.
Rich, textural beading and pearl elements adorn the silhouette for a luxurious multidimensional look and feel, while graphic lace extends over the bodice and onto the statement-making silk zibeline skirt. A laser-cut train is the striking focal point of the back of this gown, finished in delicate scallops and organic shapes for an unexpected twist.
Long Sleeve Princess Wedding Dress
Princess gowns with sleeves are another beautifully classic and regal choice! Essense of Australia Style D3358 exudes romance, with large-scale floral motifs decorating the gown’s bodice and cascading down the skirt and across the arms. The optional long sleeves pair illusion tulle with sparkling lace and sequin details for a timeless, formal look.
For a lighter look, the dress is also available without sleeves. Organic lace lines the modest V-neckline, with sheer illusion tulle along the bodice and in the back showing off the intricate details of the lace motifs. At the skirt, layers of tulle create incredible volume for a truly spectacular walk down the aisle.
Sweetheart Neckline Princess Wedding Dress
One of the most popular wedding dress necklines is the sweetheart neckline, which is stunning on a princess wedding dress. Stella York Style 7596+ features a romantic sweetheart neckline that highlights the upper body and an all-lace strapless bodice that can be worn as semi-sheer and unlined or lined to highlight each sparkling floral detail. At the waist, light lace accents organically flow into the voluminous princess skirt formed by layers of frothy sheer tulle. Style 7596 is everything a bride could dream of and an absolute vision down the aisle!
Ballgown Wedding Dresses
Long Sleeve Ballgown Wedding Dress
It’s no secret that ballgown wedding dresses with sleeves are popular amongst brides looking for a traditional look that wows! Martina Liana Luxe Style LE1290 proves that breathtaking ballgowns never go out of style. The bodice of this wedding dress marries a plunging neckline with a subtly sexy bustier fit for a romantic look, and exquisite floral lace appliqués glimmer and gleam with every movement. Sheer details in the bodice create a modern but timeless look. Â
The full skirt, complete with a long train, features an incredible texture for the ultimate ballgown moment. The optional lace sleeves are adorned with the continued floral motif for an effortlessly cohesive, complete look. With the off-the-shoulder neckline adding an element of demure sophistication. Â
Satin Ballgown Wedding Dress
Ballgown bridal styles in satin are chic and luxurious! Essense of Australia Style D2761 is an ideal choice for the bride who loves a clean, minimalist look. This fresh spin on the royal-inspired ballgown will leave you breathless. A classic satin ballgown, this silhouette features a modern plunging sweetheart neckline. Seamlessly flowing into banded off-the-shoulder straps, highlighting your neck and shoulders beautifully.
Simple seaming accentuates your frame throughout the elegant silhouette, which floats beneath the attached fabric waistband for a light finish. With modern pockets and traditional buttons running the length of the simple train, you’ll practically float down the aisle in this masterpiece for the dreaming romantic and modern minimalist. This gown is also available in plus sizes.
Off-the-Shoulder Ballgown Wedding Dress
Martina Liana Style LE1216 is a stunning off-the-shoulder ballgown wedding dress that will make you feel like royalty! Step into couture with this exquisite design and be sure to mesmerize your guests. The lace bodice sparkles invite subtle brilliance, while the delicate, sheer organza florals create a romantic cascade across the shoulder straps.
A soft scoop neckline and illusion tulle plunge further enhance the figure-flattering form of this spectacular gown. Glamorous 3D floral motifs and shimmering beaded inlays enrich the bodice for an artisanal pattern that is simply breathtaking. Seamlessly leading down from the bodice is an alluring full tulle and royal organza skirt with a slight V-back detail that creates a sophisticated silhouette.
All in all, it really comes down to personal preference. Whether you’d like the long, voluminous look of a ballgown wedding dress or A-line silhouette that has a classic, straighter cut. Take into consideration your venue and overall vision of your big day when selecting your dream gown. Also, consider if a princess dress is something you feel comfortable in. After all, it’s going to be the dress you walk down the aisle in and cherish forever! So don’t be afraid to listen to what speaks to your heart and empower yourself by confidently making that choice! When choosing between ballgown vs. princess wedding dresses, you can’t go wrong.
Is a princess wedding dress or a ballgown wedding dress the one for you? Find a store location near you and book an appointment to find out! We can’t wait for you to find your dream wedding dress!