The Kleinfeld Again Guide to Wedding Gown Train Lengths

Like every other element to a wedding dress, the train has many different styles. It’s the elongated back of the gown that makes the most impact when walking down the aisle—whether your train is short or sweeping back for multiple feet, it’s important to know the various types. We’ve got you covered.

Watteau

Attaching to the shoulders, this train style falls loosely to the hem of the dress. It creates a dramatic cape-like effect.

Sweep

Also known as a “brush,” this train extends a foot or less from where the fabric hits the floor. A sweep train is subtle, yet romantic.

Court

The court train extends two feet from where the fabric hits the floor —one foot beyond the sweep train.

Chapel

One of the more popular train options, a chapel train extends three to four-and-a-half feet from the waistline.

Cathedral

This formal style extends six to seven-and-half feet from the waistline and has a dramatic feel.

Monarch

Also known as “royal” train, this very formal style flows 12 feet or more from the waist.

Note: Unless the dress has a detachable train, consider a bustle for keeping it off the ground during the reception. Trains are easy to trip over and not so easy to dance in!