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Updated May 03, 2023The Right Bra to Wear With Every Type of Wedding Dress
Consider your wedding dress bra questions officially answered.
Perfecting your wedding attire doesn't end with picking out your dream dress (or bridal jumpsuit or two-piece, for that matter). Afterward comes shoes, jewelry, hair accessories and—perhaps the most important of all—a wedding dress bra. Having the right undergarments for your wedding is important for a couple of reasons. For starters, a well-fitting wedding dress bra will help you feel comfortable and supported on your big day. The right style and size of bra will enhance your dress, while an ill-fitted or incorrectly styled bra might have visible lines or exposed fabric.
Not sure where to start? We're answering the biggest bridal bra FAQs below and sharing our top suggestions that you can shop online, including strapless bras, backless bras and everything in between.
In this article:
- Frequently Asked Questions about Wedding Dress Bras
- The Best Bras to Wear With Your Wedding Dress
- The Best Backless Bras for Wedding Dresses
- The Best Strapless Bras for Wedding Dresses
- The Best Push-Up Bras for Wedding Dresses
- The Best Longline Bras for Wedding Dresses
- The Best Adhesive Bras for Wedding Dresses
Frequently Asked Questions about Wedding Dress Bras
Do you need to wear a bra under your wedding dress?
"Bras are not necessary under a gown unless additional support is needed," says Beth Chapman, bridal stylist and founder of Beth Chapman Styling and Consulting. She points to two things that might determine whether a wedding dress bra is required. First of all, the size of your bust is an important factor. Chapman recommends adding a supportive bra if you have a D cup or larger. Additionally, the silhouette of your gown plays a role. A dress with a lot of built-in structure, such as a ball gown with a corseted bodice, will usually offer enough support on its own. On the flipside, something with less structure (think: a slip dress) more than likely calls for a bra.
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Of course, whether or not you decide to wear a bra is ultimately up to you. Your comfort should be the number one priority, so if you don't usually wear a bra and would rather skip it on your big day, that's fine too.
What color bra should you wear with your wedding dress?
Tempted to reach for a white bra to match your wedding attire? You might want to think twice about that. "Generally gowns are lined and you would not see the white through it, but nude is always the safer option," says Chapman. She recommends going with a bra that matches your skin tone as opposed to your wedding dress. However, if you're finding it difficult to score the perfect bra in your skin tone, you can definitely go with something white or ivory instead. Just make sure to double-check in various types of lighting that it's not visible through your dress.
Can you have a bra sewn into your wedding dress?
Buying separate bra cups for your wedding dress and having them sewn in by a tailor is an alternative option to consider. However, there are pros and cons to wedding dress bra inserts. As a pro, you won't have to worry about finding or wearing a separate undergarment—one less thing to worry about! But Chapman warns against sew-in bra cups. "Reason being, if the bra slides down, so will the gown," she says. "Instead, you can either place snaps or pieces of boning that can affix from the gown to the inside of the bra to ensure that the two move well together without the bra having to actually be sewn into the gown."
The Best Bras to Wear With Your Wedding Dress
When figuring out what bra to wear with your wedding dress, consider your gown's silhouette as well as any other stylistic details that might affect what kind of bra you choose. For example, a wedding dress with a keyhole design might require a low-back bra if the keyhole is on the back, or a plunge bra if there's a low neckline on the front of the dress. We've included more examples for the most popular dress styles below.
The Best Backless Bras for Wedding Dresses
Whether you need a bra for a wedding dress with a sheer back or you're wearing a plunging open-back style, we've got you covered. One of these backless or low-back bra options will fit the bill.
Nubra Seamless in Chocolate
If you're looking for something truly backless, a stick-on bra is your best option. This seamless bra comes in seven different colorways, including three nude hues. It's also available in cup sizes A–E, which can be hard to find in an adhesive bra.
Size range: A-E
Spanx Suit Your Fancy Plunge Low-Back Mid-Thigh Bodysuit in Champagne Beige
If you have a fuller bust, a bra with a converted low-back strap or stick-on bra may not be supportive enough. If that's the case, consider a more structured undergarment such as this low-back and plunge-front bodysuit. It's a particularly good choice for gowns that are low cut at the front and the back.
Size range: XS-XL
Gatherall Bra in Mocha
The Gatherall bra was designed to be a backless and strapless bra that will stick with you throughout your wedding day (and night). Another bonus? It's reusable, washable and wireless—so say goodbye to discomfort. We're impressed!
Size range: A-DD
Fashion Forms Voluptuous U-Plunge Backless Strapless Adhesive Bra in Nude
An adhesive and bra combined in one, this backless wedding bra has plunging wireless cups that adhere directly to the skin with ease. The higher-cut sides also create an enhancing effect by pushing the breasts closer to the chest.
Size range: B-H
The Best Strapless Bras for Wedding Dresses
Anyone who's ever shopped for a strapless bra will tell you that finding one that stays up is a challenge. "The very last thing you need to be remembered for on your wedding day is hiking up your strapless bra at the altar, in photos or on the dance floor," says Heather Viskovic, director of merchandising for bras at Bare Necessities. Here are some options that will make wearing a strapless wedding bra easy-breezy.
Le Mystère Soiree Strapless Bra in Nude
Losing the straps shouldn't mean that you lose the support. This strapless bra is designed for women with a fuller bust and comes in a wide range of inclusive sizes. The band is reinforced with an underwire to help hold up your bust and silicone gripper elastic makes sure everything stays firmly in the right place. It's available in a sandy Nude hue or Black.
Size range: 32B-40G
Savage X Fenty Core Microfiber Strapless Bra in Brown Sugar Nude
When it comes to sexy lingerie, Rihanna's Savage X Fenty brand is our go-to. But did you know the site also has bra staples? This strapless bra is made from breathable microfiber (because let's face it, no one wants sweaty boobs on their wedding day), has grippy silicone elastic to prevent slipping and adjustable straps that you can add or remove as you please. We're sold.
Size range: 30A-44DD
Bare Necessities Wocoal Red Carpet Strapless Bra in Roebuck
Here's another supportive wedding bra that will keep your breasts in place. It features a comfortable padded underband and foam-lined seamless cups, meaning it will look virtually invisible under your wedding outfit. Plus, you can transform the bra to fit your exact needs using the convertible straps.
Size range: 30B-44I
SKIMS Fits Everybody Bandeau in Cocoa
We love SKIMS for their inclusive range of sizes and nude tones—and this classic wedding bandeau is no different. It's made from buttery soft fabric while also providing the perfect lift for your bust. Oh, and did we mention that it's seamless too? Yup–no visible lines, here!
Size range: XXS-4X
Torrid Strapless Lightly Lined Smooth Straight Back Bra in Rose Dust
Torrid specializes in on-trend plus-size clothing, and the retailer has a great plus-size strapless bra for wearing with your wedding dress. This comfortable bra has a supportive underwire and structured band. It's available in B, C, D, F, G and H cups, and comes in Rose Dust or Black.
Size range: 36C-50H
David's Bridal Maidenform Stay Put Convertible Strapless Bra in Nude
This convertible strapless wedding dress bra is filled with practical and functional elements, including a band that reduces shifting and Smartzone cup technology that molds to your exact shape. Better yet, the convertible straps mean it can be worn in five different ways—strapless, traditional, criss-cross, one-shoulder or halter—for all of your wedding needs.
Size range: 32A-40DD
The Best Push-Up Bras for Wedding Dresses
There's nothing wrong with wanting a little extra boost on your big day. If you're in the market for a push-up bra to wear under your wedding dress, consider one of these picks.
SKIMS Fits Everybody Push-Up Demi Bra in Sienna
If your wedding dress doesn't require a specially designed bra, your best bet at getting a comfortable fit and adequate support (that also feels sexy, of course). This push-up demi bra with adjustable straps has integrated padding that's designed to enhance cleavage and shape your bust.
Size range: 30A-38H
Lively The No-Wire Strapless Bra in Umber
This buttery soft bra is wireless, strapless and still supportive enough to give your girls some extra lift. There's a no-slip strip at the top to stop it from shifting out of place, and you don't have to worry about a rogue underwire putting a damper on your day. Choose between the Umber or Toasted Almond hue depending on your skin tone. (One thing to note: Some reviewers say that it's less supportive for those with larger busts.)
Size range: 32A-38DD
Victoria's Secret Wear Everywhere Super Push-Up Bra in Beige
Here's a classic T-shirt bra that'll work for a wedding dress that doesn't require strapless or backless underwear. This affordable push-up bra will be a versatile addition to your wardrobe even after the wedding day, especially with its convertible straps.
Size range: 32A-40DD
Cosabella Soire Confidence Demi Bra in Sette
If you're looking for a push-up style, a demi bra is an excellent option that lifts and shapes with perfection. Exhibit A? This lightweight style from Cosabella is equipped with lightly padded cups with sheer stretch mesh with soft elastic trim for pure comfort.
Size range: 32B-36D
Soma Embraceable Push-Up Bra in Warm Amber
Push-up bras aren't always synonymous with comfort. That's where Soma Intimates' Embraceable Push-Up Bra comes in; the design boasts ultra-soft push-up pads with underwire support while prioritizing comfortability. Now that's what we want to see in a wedding dress push-up bra.
Size range: 32A-38DD
The Best Longline Bras for Wedding Dresses
One piece of advice from Chapman on wearing longline undergarments such as corset bras: If you can see the outline of the edge of the bra through your skirt, wear shaping underwear (she recommends Spanx) and pull them up over where the bra ends. Here are our top bustier and corset wedding dress bras to shop now.
Bare Necessities Parfait Elissa Longline Strapless Bra in Mid Nude
This strapless longline bra has a low back, making it suitable for lots of different wedding dress silhouettes. It's a great choice for anyone seeking a little extra structure in their undergarment. Colors available include Black, two shades of nude and white.
Size range: 32B-44H
David's Bridal Dominique Satin and Lace Torsolette in Bone
If you're looking for something that offers a lot of structure and support (but is still strapless), go with a corset that has a built-in bra. This gorgeous bridal torsolette is a favorite among to-be-weds. It will accentuate curves, help to create a seamless silhouette and make for gorgeous wedding night lingerie, too.
Size range: 32A-48G
Shapellx CoreSculpt™ Supportive Ultra-Versatile Bra in Beige
For brides with larger busts, this longline wedding bra ranks big in the support department. The classic balconette provides extra coverage without digging or feeling too bulky, thanks to the seamless design with smooth lines. Another bonus? The convertible style means that you can transform the straps four different ways.
Size range: 34B-40C
Carnival Women's Invisible Strapless Bustier in White
A bustier bra is an excellent choice for strapless wedding dresses, especially those with a sweetheart neckline. They're also an extra-supportive undergarment if your bust is on the larger side. This one is available in sizes 32A to 40D and comes in Black, White, Ivory and Nude.
Size range: 32A-40D
Natori Bliss Flex Underwire Longline Bra in Cafe
This Natori longline bra from Nordstrom proves that you don't have to break the bank to score a quality wedding dress bra. Standout details include the soft, wide longline band and convertible back that can create a traditional or racerback.
Size range: 32B-36DDD
The Best Adhesive Bras for Wedding Dresses
"Sticky bras and tape options have come a long way," says Chapman. But there are a few things to keep in mind before buying just any adhesive bra. "The key is to research which ones would work best with your bust size and shape and the silhouette of your gown," she says. We've compiled the best bridal adhesive bras, available in a variety of skin tones, below.
Brassy Bra Breast Tape in Cocoa
Boob tape has become a popular alternative to wearing a bra in recent years. It's not just for the red carpet anymore—you're perfectly entitled to tape your bust for your big day. BrassyBra breast tape comes in five different nude tones, has split tape for easy application and moves with you (so you don't have to worry about feeling restricted on the dance floor). The box includes three one-time-use sets, so you can test it out before your wedding day. Plus, there are nipple covers included if you want that little bit of extra coverage.
Size range: A-DDDD
Good Lines Party Pack Boob Tape Kit in Champagne
Here's another awesome (sticky!) solution to your wedding dress bra woes. If you're struggling to find undergarments that work with your gown, boob tape really is a great alternative. Good Lines has a strong adhesive that lifts and holds for up to eight hours. It's also sweatproof, waterproof and can be cut to fit the exact silhouette of your dress. The tape works for lots of different body types and skin tones.
Size range: A-E
Circle Circle Dot Dot in Ivory Beige
This silicone bra is one of the best stick-on bras for a wedding dress for a few reasons. First of all, it's really sticky (like, really sticky). Secondly, it comes in five different colorways (Porcelain Pink, Ivory Beige, Black, Mahogany and Sand). And finally, it's available up to a cup size F. A few things to keep in mind if you decide to go with this option: Use the site's sizing chart, read the application instructions and try it on with your actual wedding dress.
Size range: A-F
Nood Game Changer 5-Pack in Nood 9
This adhesive wedding dress bra from Nood is super impressive—and let us tell you why. First, it's made with sustainable hemp fabric that is sweatproof and waterproof (an ideal material for summer or outdoor weddings). Second, it offers a strapless, backless fit that lifts, shapes and supports busts of all different shapes and sizes. Finally, they offer four different nude shades to choose from. May we say more?
Size range: 1-4
Niidor Backless Strapless Silicone Sticky Bra in Nude
Looking for a silicone sticky bra for your wedding? This easy-to-use adhesive option is strapless, backless and wireless—meaning it will work with virtually any wedding gown. It's available in five nude shades and cup sizes A-G.
Size range: A-G
Naoimh O'Hare contributed to the reporting of this article.
