Bras But Not — The Best Options for Backless, Sheer, or Lightweight Wedding Dresses

So let’s talk about boobs. Some are big, some are small, some point out in different directions, some sag, some bounce, and some don’t. Besides the huge variety of wedding dress styles that dictate what you might be able to wear to keep the girls in place without totally ruining your look, you also have to figure out what works best for you.

We all need a lot of support on our wedding days, that's why we have our friends, partners, and loved ones right there by our side! But, in this case, we need to keep in mind a very specific type of support that is absolutely crucial and that your besties just can't take care of for you... your bra.

Specifically, what happens when you've absolutely fallen in love with a gorgeous strapless gown or an irresistible backless jumpsuit? Where does that leave the two girls who most need your support on this big, big day? Well, that's what we're here for.

We've done some digging on nontraditional bra options to keep you supported without disrupting your wedding wear!

Let Freedom Ring — No Bra

This would work well if you have a dress that is fitted and padded well. Or if you just happen to not have a lot going up all there, lucky you! What a weight off your shoulders — literally. You know your body, so you know whether or not your ladies need a little more support. If totally braless isn't an option for you then keep scrolling on! (Honestly, we're here for any and all sizes of braless babes, so long as you're back muscles can manage the swing of things!)

That said, some dresses use some boning or a corset-style cinch to add support. If you are working with a designer or getting a dress altered, make sure to ask about what you should be wearing underneath. If you try to fit a bra on when the designer intended you to go au natural, the fit and shape of the dress might be off. On the other hand, if you don’t feel comfortable letting it all hang out, even in a controlled manner, mention that as well! 

A Traditional Strapless Bra 

Oh, the strapless bra. How could such a simple concept be such a struggle to actually use? Strapless bras are a very personal preference sort of thing. Some people love them, others...not so much. They tend to work a little better on smaller-chested people, but it’s definitely worth a test run or two to make sure that you don’t commit to something that will fall off the second you hit the dance floor.

The perks of strapless bras are obviously the no straps component, great for either a strapless dress or a lace or illusion neckline/sleeve where you want nothing but your skin to be showing underneath. 

Sticky Boobs 

In case you don’t happen to be on Instagram, you may not be privy to the immense amount of alternative bra options available to social media users. Sticky boobs (also called “invisible adhesive strapless bra cups”) are a great option for someone who needs something both strapless and backless — basically, someone who needs the lift and coverage from a bra without a bra itself.

However, this is yet another option that rarely works for large-chested people and requires some trial and error. Also, be aware of the climate in which you’re getting married; increased humidity and sweat levels may cause the adhesive to slip and not last as long as you need. And you definitely don't want to worry about anything slipping around while you're busy dancing the night away!

However, they can be perfect if you’re just looking for a little extra coverage without the straps involved (given the right circumstances).

Tape/pasties 

Finally, the most minimal option (besides nothing at all) are pasties or boob tape. Pasties are essentially adhesives that just cover your nipples and help to avoid that unfortunate look of nipples peeking out through fabric at inopportune moments. Boob tape can also be used for this, but you can also fashion your own version of sticky boobs without the cup itself, especially if you are larger-chested.

Some layers of boob tape underneath the breast itself can provide some much-needed support, and strips on the side of your breast can help wrangle the gals back in place in case they are in danger of peeking around the side of your dress. 

These are just some of the options available for making sure you feel comfortable and confident on your wedding day. There are also more full-body options, such as slips or body shapewear (like Spanx), but again, it’s really about what you feel like you need and what will make you feel the best on your big day. 

Pick something you can dance in, walk in, sit in, and take your photos in without constantly having to readjust. Worst case scenario, I’m sure your partner won’t mind if you sneak into the bathroom before the honeymoon suite to put on something a little more exciting. For the actual ceremony, as long as it’s comfortable and makes you feel beautiful, you really can’t go wrong.