Prom Dresses
Mesh That Works Like Armor
Crystal mesh puts the beadwork directly onto an open mesh base, which sounds delicate but actually creates remarkable structure. These Rachel Allan mermaid gowns hold their fitted shape through the hip and thigh because the mesh backing gives the crystals something to grip. The black gown shows how densely the crystals can pack without creating stiffness. You get full coverage sparkle that still moves with your body.
The strapless sweetheart construction across all three designs relies on this structural quality. Crystal mesh can handle boning and interior support without showing seams or bulk the way solid fabrics sometimes do. The mesh disappears completely under the crystal work, so what you see is pure shimmer in blush pink, powder blue, or classic black.
Light Reflection at Scale
The difference between crystal mesh and other beaded fabrics comes down to how light travels through the material. Because the base is mesh rather than solid fabric, light can actually pass through between the crystals, creating depth and dimension. Look at how the blush pink gown shows varying tones depending on the angle. That's the mesh backing allowing light to play through the beading.
The fitted-through-thigh silhouette these gowns share wouldn't work as well with heavier beaded fabrics. Crystal mesh provides the sparkle density you want for formal events while keeping the weight manageable enough for a mermaid cut that actually lets you walk, sit, and move through a full evening.
