Summary
- the strapless wedding dress is popular for all brides
- strapless wedding dresses are made in all shapes, fabrics, and necklines
- this silhouette uses boning in the bodice construction for support
- strapless dresses can be accessorized with detachable sleeves, toppers, and more
- work with a talented seamstress to make appropriate fitting modifications
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The allure of the strapless wedding dress is undeniable. Having the upper body exposed and freedom of movement is equally great for hugging guests and on the dance floor!
The strapless style is a classic choice and has been popular for many years with fashion designers because of the customizations and add-on accessories available to change up the look. Strapless gowns are available in all different styles from sheath to ball gown, and in all fabrics as well.
The selection of these bridal gowns is ample, and if you have started the search for your dream dress, you have probably noticed this. Many brides love the look of bare shoulders, however, their biggest concerns are:
- the need to pull the dress up
- an appropriate strapless bra
- properly fitting a large bust
- having a ‘wardrobe malfunction’
Your wedding gown will be worn all day and well into the night. No matter how tightly your dress fits when you first put it on, it is guaranteed to stretch. Not only from the movement of your body but also from body heat. Think of wearing jeans straight out of the dryer that are nice and tight, and by the end of the day are loose. It’s the same thing. So how does a strapless dress stay up?
Let’s look at how the bodice is made.
The Construction of the Bodice
Most people think that the dress is held up at the top, but this is not the case. The weight of the dress is not held from the top, it is held from a tight bodice on the ribs and hips. In order for a strapless dress to stay fitted, it must have boning throughout. What is boning?
Boning is simply stiff yet bendable plastic strips that are placed inside the bodice to keep it straight and secure. If you have a large bust, your dress may require additional boning for a better and more supportive fit.
The Cups
You must have the appropriate fitting cups. If you have a larger bust with a DD cup but have a B size cup in your dress, your breasts will be flattened and pushed up and out. If you are a B cup but have DD in your dress, it will cause large gaps. You don’t want this on your wedding day. Remember, you will have these photos forever so work closely with your seamstress. She will be able to best fit your dress to your body.
Your bust size should be considered when choosing the shape of the strapless neck line.
The Neckline Shape
When we say a strapless neckline, that simply means there are no straps. There are still different shapes, however, for alternative necklines. You will find strapless dresses in:
- sweetheart
- plunge
- scoop
- straight across
A scoop or straight across neck allows for additional support and coverage for those wanting a more conservative look. The plunging neckline and cuffed straight are two very on trend looks right now.
The strapless sweetheart neckline is still the most popular choice in our bridal store.
And any of these front neckline shapes can be made with different backs.
Strapless Wedding Dress – The Back
The strapless dress can have a low or illusion back for a very sexy look. These dresses can be a real WOW!
A low back offers no support and even with boning in the front, it can be difficult to stay in place as you twist and move so you need to be aware of this. It will look spectacular when standing still, but may not stay in place well while dancing. An illusion back provides some support and designers have cleverly added boning into the design to help keep it in place.
The photos below illustrate strapless gown with an illusion back and boning.
Note: If you are having trouble, you can try a quick fix like silicone grips (fashion tape) placed in specific areas that can help keep the front part of your dress in place.
Accessories For A Strapless Wedding outbound linkDress
Strapless wedding dresses are a great option if you love adding accessories! Detachable sleeves in any length and style – puff, Juliet, bishop, and long sleeves all work beautifully with a strapless wedding gown. You can add lace straps or thin plain or beaded spaghetti straps, lace toppers, and off the shoulder straps. A low back can have a drape added or back jewelry. There are many ways to make it into your unique and perfect wedding dress!
More On The Strapless Wedding Dress
The strapless neckline continue to be a popular style. They are made in every silhouette including sheath or column, fit & flare, mermaid, A-line, and ball gowns. They are made in all fabrics like lace, crepe, organza, satin, and any combination of these. They are great for any body type, especially pear shapes because a strapless will emphasize the shoulders and upper body. Make sure your bridal consultant brings you a number of strapless wedding dress styles to try on.
A lot of women think they won’t look good being so exposed, perhaps a lack of cleavage or believe they won’t be able to wear the right undergarments to make it fit, but this is not always the case. Or it may go the other way where your personal preference is to wear a strapless but find you are uncomfortable in it. Wedding dress shopping will often surprise brides especially on their first appointment when they have a vision that changes completely when trying on. That is part of the fun of the appointment!
At Darianna® Bridal & Tuxedo, we know your vision can change quickly once you start trying on. It is our job as professional bridal stylists to show you all of your options, and educate you on fabrics and shapes so that you can determine what’s best for you. Whatever your style turns out to be, make sure it is the perfect dress, with the perfect accessories, and the perfect fit for your big day!