A highly formal evening dress designed with a tightly fitted bodice and a voluminous, floor-length skirt supported by petticoats, crinolines, or tulle layers. The silhouette requires significant yardage and internal structure, often incorporating boning or corsetry to support the weight of the skirt. It is typically made from luxury fabrics like silk, satin, or taffeta.
Heard on the job
We need an extra ten yards of tulle to give the ballgown the right amount of sweep.
Insider tip
The weight of a true ballgown skirt must hang from the waist structure, not the shoulders, requiring heavy interfacing and boning in the bodice.
Also heard as
- ball gown