Which sheer woven fabric, often made from silk or rayon, is recognized for being soft and lightweight, particularly for formal dresses?

Chiffon is a sheer woven fabric that is commonly made from materials like silk or rayon, known for its soft and lightweight characteristics. This fabric’s delicate texture and graceful draping qualities make it especially suitable for formal dresses, as it adds an elegant and romantic element to garments. Chiffon's versatility allows it to be layered or used as an overlay, enhancing the overall aesthetic of formal attire.

Lace, while also used in formal garments, is a textured fabric with intricate patterns and a more structured feel compared to chiffon. Organza is a stiffer type of sheer fabric, which adds more structure and volume to designs but might lack the soft drape associated with chiffon. Tulle is a lightweight netting material often used for bridal gowns and tutus, but it has a much more rigid structure and is generally less soft than chiffon. Therefore, the distinctive softness and lightweight nature of chiffon make it the correct choice for this context.