The Ultimate Guide to Undergarments

Strapless or

Off-the-Shoulder Styles

Image: Anne Barge - Toddy

A plunging, open back and thin spaghetti straps presents a unique problem: you need to find something that supports you without straps or a back, which might seem impossible at first. If your bodice allows you to, sewn-in cups once again make a perfect option, especially if your dress features a plunging neckline. This way, there’s no worry in finding a bra that works with your open bodice. If your bodice is extremely form-fitting or has sheer panels, sew-in cups may not work—so you can turn to pasties, an option that will easily blend into your dress. The downside of pasties is that they lack the same support as other options, but depending on your wedding dress, you may not need much more support—just a hint of coverage.

Strapless or Plunging Necklines

Image: Wtoo by Watters - Savvy

Much like a dress with an open back and thin straps, the main two choices with strapless, plunging necklines consist of sewn-in cups or pasties. Depending on how low your neckline plunges, you can find a longline strapless bra with a plunge to give you as much support as possible without peeking through your neckline.

Small Straps, Open Back

Image: Blush by Hayley Paige - Perri

A plunging, open back and thin spaghetti straps presents a unique problem: you need to find something that supports you without straps or a back, which might seem impossible at first. If your bodice allows you to, sewn-in cups once again make a perfect option, especially if your dress features a plunging neckline. This way, there’s no worry in finding a bra that works with your open bodice. If your bodice is extremely form-fitting or has sheer panels, sew-in cups may not work—so you can turn to pasties, an option that will easily blend into your dress. The downside of pasties is that they lack the same support as other options, but depending on your wedding dress, you may not need much more support—just a hint of coverage.

Strapless, High Back

Image: Watters - Bentlee

Compared to finding something to work around plunging necklines and backs, finding undergarments for a high backed strapless wedding dress is much easier. Longline strapless bras give you plenty of support without interfering with your dress, or you could have cups sewn in at a fitting. Since your bridal gown is strapless, you want to be sure you don’t have to constantly readjust yourself throughout the day, so finding an undergarment that makes you forget you don’t have straps is key.