Guidance
The world of silk ribbon can be a confusing affair- what width do I need? How much ribbon should I buy? How do I recreate a certain style I've seen on Pinterest? What is the difference between Habotai silk and Silk chiffon? Hopefully, this page will help you come to a decision or at least demystify the process a little. However, any questions please do contact me!
Width
Length
Silk
Colour
RIBBON WIDTH
There are no set rules for determining the width of your ribbon you choose for your bridal bouquet - it is purely personal preference! Though the scale of your bouquet may influence the width and length of the ribbon you choose.
Florists tend to prefer working with either narrower or wider ribbon and it may be worth contacting your florist before you order to ensure they are happy with your choice!
A narrower width can look just as beautiful as a wider width though the wider widths are usually used to create the longer tails and very narrow widths are usually kept shorter.
Most brides/florists choose ribbon which is either 1.5 inches to 2.5 inches wide for their bouquets However, florists usually choose a narrower 5/8 inch width ribbon for boutonnieres/buttonholes.
Depending on the style of your wedding cake, the diameter and height of the tier, I would recommend consulting with your cake designer who can advise which width ribbon to choose . A selection of wedding cakes adorned with silk ribbon in a variety of different widths and styles can also be found here
The slideshow below features both wedding details and several bridal bouquets adorned with a variety of different widths of ribbon to help you make a decision.
This bouquet by Pamella Dun Weddings and photographed by Jane Beadnell Photography was tied with multiple strands of 1, 1.5 and 2.5 inch ribbon in rose quartz and serenity blue.
!.5 inch width ribbon with calligraphy by Laura Hooper Calligraphy , photo by Kelsey Thompson for Allie and Matt' real wedding
This wreath styled by Selina Lake for Country Homes and Interiors Magazine, was adorned with 4 inch width red silk habotai ribbon. Photo credit David Brittain . Art direction Sara Bird.
This bouquet by Pamella Dun Weddings and photographed by Jane Beadnell Photography was tied with multiple strands of 1, 1.5 and 2.5 inch ribbon in rose quartz and serenity blue.
AMOUNT AND LENGTH
The amount of ribbon you decide upon depends on the style you prefer- how many ribbon tails and the length of the tails on your bouquet.
For example a four yard length of ribbon would create either four tails each just less than a yard in length (remembering that the florist would have to wrap the stems with a few inches of ribbon at the centre) or 8 tails each half a yard in length.
As a rule most florists like to work with between 3 and 4 yards per bridesmaid and 4 to 6 for the bride.
If you are thinking of adorning your cake with silk ribbon, 2-3 yards is usually perfectly sufficient depending on the diameter of the particular tier on the cake you are tying the silk around, taking into account size of the bow and length of ribbon tails.
For stationery 30-45 cm per invite is the norm - though ask your stationer to create a mock-up in the style you would like , asking them to replicate size of bows , double wrapped etc and then multiply it by the number of guests to ensure you order the correct amount per invite. This also applies if you wish to tie silk ribbon around your napkins, favours or menus- create a mock up in the style you want taking into consideration the dimensions of the napkin- favour , the size of bow, the length of the tails and multiply it by the amount of guests attending. If you are adding calligraphy or wax seals to the ribbon remember to take any seams into consideration and to compensate for any extra details.
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Catherine's gorgeous pastel bouquet by Kate Spicer and captured by Naomi Kenton was bound by approximately 1.5 yards of ribbon, three different shades in a 5/8 inch width, each cut into lengths approximately 0.5 yards long .
This bouquet by Florist Wild at Heart, was tied with approximately 12 yards of silk ribbon. Photo by Divine Day Photography for brides Magazine, styled and designed by Lamp Productions .
Floribunda Rose floral design used more than 24 yards of silk ribbon for Bride Sundari and all her maids! photography Dominique Bader.
Catherine's gorgeous pastel bouquet by Kate Spicer and captured by Naomi Kenton was bound by approximately 1.5 yards of ribbon, three different shades in a 5/8 inch width, each cut into lengths approximately 0.5 yards long .
SILK COMPOSITION
I offer several types of silk in all my stores. The bias-cut silk habotai is the silk ribbon most people associate with bridal bouquets- it is cut on the bias so has spring and natural movement , curls beautifully without effort and has raw edges but very little fraying.
I also offer hand-torn silk chiffon, crinkle silk chiffon, silk chiffon satin, silk velvet and a sheer silk habotai. As these ribbons are hand-torn they do not have the same natural vitality as the bias cut ribbon although they do hang beautifully they require a breeze or a little interaction to ensure movement in photographs.
Hand-torn ribbon also has raw edges with delicately frayed edges but potentially loose threads.
I do not offer Bamboo 'Silk' as this is not a true silk but an artificial man-made construct made from plant fibres.
 Rich red silk habotai ribbonPhoto by Sophia Veres Photography , Floral design Wild flower Workshop |  Almond Blush Silk habotai ribbonReal Bride Mackenzie , captured by Molly Peach Photography, bridal bouquet @allijcreative. Almond blush silk habotai ribbon by Pompom Blossom |
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 Kate Nielen PhotographyShades of pink silk habotai ribbon . Captured by Kate Nielen photography, stationery by Leeming Brothers , styling and design Couture Weddings and Events and Chase Makeup and Hair |  Helen Warner PhotographyCake by Edible Essence, styling and design Aisle and Style, photography Helen Warner photography, silk ribbon in silver sage and grey Pompom Blossom |
 Divine DayPhoto credit Divine Day photography, for brides Magazine with The Wedding Gallery, bouquet by Wild at Heart, silk ribbons Pompom Blossom |  Ivory silk ribbonPhoto by Lisa Mcconalogue Photography, accessories by Megan Therese Couture |
 Peach and green silk habotai ribbonPeach and dark green bias cut silk habotai ribbon as seen in Brides Magazine . Florals by Paul Thomas Flowers, Lamp Productions- photography Lucy Davenport Photography |  Matt Porteous Photography2.5 inch silk habotai ribbon for an editorial with You & Your Wedding Magazine with The Wedding Gallery. Photo by Matt Porteous |
 Photography credit Bottega53Elisa's bouquet Photography @bottega53 Design @elisa_mocci_events Flowers @federicaambrosini |  Rebecca Carpenter PhotographyRebecca Carpenter Photography with stationery by Wonderland Invites and styled by Kayleigh Keen and The Stars Inside. Silk ribbon Pompom Blossom |
 Taylor & Porter PhotographySilk habotai ribbon styled by Joy Proctor Design for Fluttermag |  British Flower Week inspired shootcaptured by @beccygoddard and featured on @lovemydress 🌸🌺🍃 . Concept & design @styleandbloomuk Venue @garthmylhall Floral-design @pheasant_botanica Planning & Styling @forthelove_of_weddings |
 Dark Green Silk habotai ribbonDark green bias cut silk habotai as seen in Brides Magazine . Stationery by Cutture and styled by Lamp Productions- photography Lucy Davenport Photography |  Helen Warner PhotographyStyling and design Aisle and Style, Photography Helen Warner Photography , Stationery Oh Wonder Calligraphy, silk ribbon in stone Pompom Blossom |
 British Flower Week inspired shootcaptured by @beccygoddard and featured on @lovemydress 🌸🌺🍃 . Concept & design @styleandbloomuk Photography @beccygoddard Venue @garthmylhall Floral-design @pheasant_botanica Planning & Styling @forthelove_of_wedding |  British Flower week Inspired shootcaptured by @beccygoddard and featured on @lovemydress 🌸🌺🍃 . Concept & design @styleandbloomuk Photography @beccygoddard Venue @garthmylhall Floral-design @pheasant_botanica Planning & Styling @forthelove_of_wedding |
 Pale Blush Pink silk ribbonPhoto credit Lucy Tanner Photography for Brides Magazine with The Wedding Gallery |  Pale Blue silk ribbonJane Beadnell Photography |
 Pantone greenery Silk ribbonPhoto by Paola de Paola Photography |  Sung Blue Photography |
 Blood orange bias cut silk habotaiBlood Orange 4 inch wide bias cut silk habotai ribbon as seen in Brides Magazine . Painted cookies by Monannie Cakes and styled by Lamp Productions- photography Lucy Davenport Photography |  Eeu de Nil Silk ribbonsPhoto credit Julie Michaelsen Photography, bouquet by Jenn Pinder Flowers |
 Kylee Yee PhotographyJulie's bouquet, captured by Kylee Yee Photography, bouquet by Jardin Divers , silk ribbon Pompom Blossom |  pantone ribbons wedding photography by Jane Beadnell Photography SML417Jane Beadnell Photography |
 Dusty Blue Silk RibbonPhoto credit PearBear Photography , bouquet by Catkin Flowers |  Grey silk habotai ribbonCake and Photo credit Wildflower Cakes |
 Philippa Sian PhotographyFloral design Jenny Fleur Event florist, Photo credit Philippa Sian Photography, silk ribbon Pompom Blossom |  Chair DecorBeribboned chair by Pompom Blossom for Brides Magazine |
BIAS-CUT SILK HABOTAI
Silk habotai ribbon has natural movement as it is cut on the bias. The ribbon twists and curls effortlessly so hangs beautifully.It has raw edges but no loose threads and is the ribbon most associated with bridal bouquets.It is also perfect for styling, flat lays, for stationery, cakes, tying around favours or napkins.
HAND-TORN SHEER HABOTAI
This ribbon is hand-torn , translucent , has delicately frayed edges and is prone to loose threads though is ideal for tying around favours or cutlery and is the perfect addition for fine-art wedding bouquets .
 Peach sheer silk habotai ribbonPhoto credit Nkima Photography, bouquet by Blue Sky Flowers |  hand-torn sheer silk habotaiYellow hand-torn silk habotai around napkins. Photo credit Divine Day photography, for Brides Magazine.Styling and design Lamp Productions . |
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 Dark Green hand-dyed sheer habotaiDark green hand-torn sheer silk habotai as seen in Brides Magazine .Calligraphy napkin by Extra Special Touch and styled by Lamp Productions- photography Lucy Davenport Photography |  Pale Peach sheer silk habotai ribbonPhoto credit Nkima Photography, bouquet Blue Sky Flowers |
 Pale peach sheer silk habotai ribbonPhoto credit Nkima Photography , bouquet Blue Sky flowers |  Pale Peach sheer silk habotai ribbonPhoto credit Nkima Photography, bouquet Blue Sky Flowers |
 Yellow hand-torn silk habotaiYellow hand-torn silk habotai around napkins. Photo credit Divine Day photography, for Brides Magazine.Styling and design Lamp Productions . |  Pale Peach sheer silk habotai ribbonPhoto credit Nkima Photography, bouquet Blue Sky Photography |
 Sheer champagne silk habotai ribbonStyling and Photo by Julia Lake Parties. |  Ivory sheer silk habotai ribbonPhoto credit Kyleyee Photography from Julie and Ross's real wedding in Italy . |
 Pale Peach sheer silk habotai ribbonPhoto credit Nkima Photography, bouquet Blue Sky Flowers |  Hand-torn sheer silk habotaiDark green hand-torn sheer silk habotai as seen in Brides Magazine . calligraphy napkin Extra Special Touch and styled by Lamp Productions- photography Lucy Davenport Photography |
SILK CHIFFON SATIN
This ribbon has a matte surface on one side and a delicate sheen on the other. It is hand-torn so has raw edges and visibly frayed edges though is prone to loose threads. As these photos in the slideshow below show, as the ribbon is hand-torn it hangs beautifully straight but with very little natural curl or twist- though is very lightweight so a slight breeze or movement gives the ribbon body.
 Gold silk chiffon ribbonPhoto by Matt Horan, bouquet by Number Twenty Seven Floral Design |  blush silk chiffon ribbonBlush silk chiffon ribbon captured by Jasmine photography, crowns PS With Love bridal, Stationery/calligraphy Emerald Paper Design |
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 Photo by Matt Horan PhotographyGold silk chiffon satin Ribbon , bouquet by Number Twenty Seven Floral Design |  Berry silk chiffon satin ribbonPhoto by Gemma McCauley Photography, bouquet by Voila Florists |
 Photo credit Matt Horan PhotographyGold silk chiffon satin Ribbon , bouquet by Number Twenty Seven Floral Design |  Berry Silk Chiffon satin ribbonPhoto by Gemma McCauley Photography, bouquet by Voila Florists |
 Hand-dyed gold silk ribbonPhoto by Matt Horan Photography , bouquet by Number Twenty Seven Floral Design |  Hand-dyed Berry silk ribbonPhoto by Gemma McCauley Photography, bouquet by Voila Florists |
 Blush silk chiffon ribbonBlush silk chiffon ribbon captured by Jasmine photography, crowns PS With Love bridal, Stationery/calligraphy Emerald Paper Design |
SILK CHIFFON
This ribbon is hand-torn so has raw edges and is prone to loose threads with visibly delicately frayed edges . It is translucent and has a matte textured surface. it is often used to add a textural element to bouquets and ensures a fluffy full bow.
 Dusty blue silk chiffon ribbonImage by Lisa Mcconalogue Photography |  Dusty blue silk chiffon ribbonCalligraphy by Lenka Calligraphy, Image by Lisa Mcconalogue Photography |
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 Emma Pilkington PhotographySilk chiffon ribbon by Pompom Blossom, bouquet by Floribunda Rose |  Emma Pilkington PhotographyHand-dyed chiffon ribbon by Pompom Blossom , bouquet by Floribunda Rose |
 Emma Pilkington Photography |  Emma Pilkington Photographypale dusty blue Hand-dyed silk chiffon ribbon by Pompom Blossom , bouquet by Floribunda Rose |
 Chymo More PhotographyPale dusty blue silk chiffon ribbon by Pompom Blossom |
 Helen Warner PhotographyCrinkle silk chiffon ribbon by Pompom Blossom , bouquet by Poesie d'un Jour , photo credit Helen Warner Photography |  Barely There styled shootHelen Elliot Photography, Wildflower Wedding Planner, Petal and Wild Floral Design , Egg & Moos cake , silk ribbon and runners Pompom Blossom |
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 Barely There Styled ShootHelen Elliot Photography, Wildflower Wedding Planner, Petal and Wild Floral Design , Egg & Moos cake , silk ribbon and runners Pompom Blossom |  Sleeping BeautyPhoto credit Rebecca Goddard Photography, Stationery Wonderland Invites , Saint Floral Design , Beauty and stylist Kayleigh Keen and planner The Stars Inside . Silk ribbon and runners Pompom Blossom |
 Sleeping BeautyPhoto credit Rebecca Goddard Photography, Stationery Wonderland Invites , Saint Floral Design , Beauty and stylist Kayleigh Keen and planner The Stars Inside . Silk ribbon and runners Pompom Blossom |  Sleeping BeautyPhoto credit Rebecca Goddard Photography, Stationery Wonderland Invites , Saint Floral Design , Beauty and stylist Kayleigh Keen and planner The Stars Inside . Silk ribbon and runners Pompom Blossom |
 Helen Warner PhotographyCrinkle silk chiffon ribbon by Pompom Blossom , bouquet by Poesie d'un Jour , photo credit Helen Warner Photography |  Sleeping BeautyPhoto credit Rebecca Goddard Photography, Stationery Wonderland Invites , Saint Floral Design , Beauty and stylist Kayleigh Keen and planner The Stars Inside . Silk ribbon and runners Pompom Blossom |
 Sleeping BeautyPhoto credit Rebecca Goddard Photography, Stationery Wonderland Invites , Saint Floral Design , Beauty and stylist Kayleigh Keen and planner The Stars Inside . Silk ribbon and runners Pompom Blossom |
CRINKLE SILK CHIFFON
Crinkle silk chiffon ribbon is very delicate, lightweight and translucent, with a hint of colour, raw edges and textural elements it is perfect for Spring and Summer bouquets, whimsical weddings and styling.
SILK VELVET
Silk velvet ribbon is very soft and luxurious, with a single side of velvet pile and a smooth woven underside. It is hand-torn, so has raw edges and is prone to loose threads and loose fibres. It is a heavier weight than all other ribbon so is best suited for fall, autumn and winter weddings.
COLOUR
Though your choice of ribbon completely depends on your chosen colour scheme and the flowers you and your florist have decided upon, there are a few factors to consider.
First and foremost, there is no need to be too rigid with colour choices, its often better to open up a colour palette than to limit it! One of the best resources I've found, if not the best resource, for helping to decide colour for your wedding, is by Michelle at Pocketful of Dreams , which can be found on her website here
Bouquet ribbon can be coordinated with the brides dress or bridal accessories, complement or contrast with the bouquet or blend with or contrast against the bridesmaids dresses- for example if there are a few bridesmaids wearing dresses in a different shade , a bridesmaid wearing a lavender dress would look lovely carrying a bouquet including palest peach and apricot blooms with a pale apricot ribbon and vice versa. Another example of complementary shades working together would be a bridesmaid wearing a pale powder blue dress ,carrying a bouquet of pinks, creams, blush and peach blooms, bound with a subtle poppy coloured ribbon, adding warmth .
I would not recommend a bridesmaid carrying a bouquet with the exact same shade of ribbon as her dress, as in photos the ribbon will blend seamlessly into the dress, so either a paler tone ribbon , deeper tone ribbon or a complete contrast - to add a pop of colour - is often better for the bridesmaids bouquets- though the bride can always carry a bouquet with ribbon an identical shade to the bridesmaids dresses as her dress will more often than not be a completely different shade to that of the bridesmaids.
A hint of a colour in the bouquet is often enough to tie in the colour of the ribbon and can be as subtle as a centre of a specific flower, for example the gold centre of cosmos within a bouquet would look beautiful with a gentle chartreuse silk ribbon.
Several tonal shades always look beautiful without fail and in the gallery below I've selected a few of my favourites to show you how they can work together.
These maids wear mismatched gowns in shades of lilac and grey with bouquets tied with ribbon in shades of almond blush and lilac grey. Photo by Rebecca Carpenter Photography
This coastal wedding bouquet was tied with a mix of dusky blue velvets and silk habotai ribbon . Photo by Courage and Dash
Alex's bouquet by The Cornish Cutting Garden, photo credit Enchanted Brides, silk ribbon Pompom Blossom
These maids wear mismatched gowns in shades of lilac and grey with bouquets tied with ribbon in shades of almond blush and lilac grey. Photo by Rebecca Carpenter Photography