Junior Rasmussen
Backless dresses are sexy, slinky, and fun, but what happens when you want to cover up a backless wedding dress? There are several options to consider. You could opt for a bolero jacket or a shawl to cover your back, or you could make alterations to the dress itself. If you want to keep the backless look but need a little more coverage, you can sew a lace insert into the back or use an adhesive bra. For more extensive coverage, you can ask a seamstress to cover the back with matching fabric, or you could add draped material across the back for a classy look.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of cover | Lace insert, shawl, jacket, adhesive bra, body tape, bolero jacket, draped material, seamstress cover |
| Considerations | Colour, comfort, weather, lingerie, modesty, style |
| Lace insert shape | V-shaped wedge |
| Lace insert size | Slightly wider than the opening at the back of the dress |
| Lace insert placement | Sewn into the back of the dress at the desired height |
| Lace insert colour | Matching or complementary |
| Shawl fabric | Light silk, sheer muslin, gauzy, light and breathable |
| Jacket style | Long sleeves, lined capelet |
| Adhesive bra type | Pasties, nipple petals, lace-up front |
| Body tape | Gaffer tape, medical tape, skin-safe fashion tape |
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What You'll Learn
Sew a lace insert for coverage and flair
If you want to cover a backless wedding dress with lace, you can sew a lace insert into the back to add some coverage and flair. This is an excellent solution if you want to show off your backless dress but need a little more coverage.
First, choose a lace fabric that matches or complements the colour of your dress. You can opt for a dainty lace fabric or, if you prefer something subtler than lace, you can use illusion fabric. Illusion fabric is stretchy and sheer, similar to the material used for nylons or pantyhose.
Next, cut the lace or illusion fabric into a V-shaped wedge that's slightly wider than the opening at the back of the dress. If you're using lace, you can cut between the panels, taking a meandering path around the motifs, and trim away any excess material on the back so the lace is back to being just one layer thick.
Then, sew the lace or illusion fabric into the back of the dress at the desired height to get the coverage you want. You can use a "lace invisible seam" technique to sew lace seams without straight-line seam allowances, as any seam allowance will show through the translucent fabric. To do this, mark the pattern lines on the lace by running a contrast-colour basting stitch along each stitch line. Then, line up the stitching lines, overlapping the pieces, and cut along the edge of the lace motif. Finally, stitch the lace in place.
If you don't know your way around a sewing machine, you can always bring your dress to a tailor and describe the alterations you'd like them to make.
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Wear a jacket or shawl for warmth and modesty
If you're looking for a way to cover a backless wedding dress for warmth and modesty, a jacket or shawl is an excellent option. Here are some ideas to help you achieve the perfect look:
Choosing a Shawl
Shawls are a versatile and elegant choice to cover your backless wedding dress. Opt for a glamorous shawl in a luxurious fabric such as silk, sheer muslin, or faux fur. If you're wearing a simple dress, consider a sheer shawl with embroidered designs to add a touch of detail to your ensemble. For a whimsical or garden-inspired wedding, a lace shawl can provide coverage while complementing the aesthetic. You can also drape a silky shawl over your shoulders for an elegantly undone look.
Selecting a Jacket
If you prefer the structure of a jacket, there are several stylish options available. A draped evening jacket can provide a balanced contrast to a slinky dress. For a cool spring or autumn day, a corduroy blazer can offer both warmth and style. If you're seeking a more glamorous look, a lined capelet or an embroidered bridal jacket can be an excellent choice, providing practical coverage with a touch of Hollywood glam.
Versatility and Comfort
When choosing a jacket or shawl, consider the temperature and your comfort. If it's a warm day, opt for something light and breathable. On the other hand, if it's chilly, choose a thicker option or a long-sleeved jacket. Remember, a capelet might not provide sufficient warmth in extremely cold weather.
Switching Between Looks
One of the advantages of using a jacket or shawl to cover your backless wedding dress is the versatility it offers. You can easily switch between a modest look during the ceremony and a more revealing look at the reception. This allows you to achieve the best of both worlds and customise your style throughout the day.
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Use body tape for shaping and support
If you're wearing a backless wedding dress, body tape can be used for shaping and support. Body tape is a good alternative if adhesive bras don't provide enough support or if you can't find a low-backed bra that works with your dress.
There are a few different types of tape you can use, including gaffer tape, medical tape, or skin-safe fashion tape. When using body tape, you can lift your breasts and push them together to get the desired shape for your bust, then carefully tape your bust in place with 2-3 horizontal strips of tape. There are also pre-cut tape options that go up to H cups, which can be stuck on and adjusted to your breast shape.
If you want to avoid the hassle of cutting the tape yourself, you can use a brand like Brassy Bra, which is single-sided lift tape that comes in packs of 3 pairs/sets. It's similar in texture to K-tape and can work well with the cut of gowns with high necks.
You can also use body tape in conjunction with a backless adhesive bra that has corset lacing to pull everything up and together, which can then be taped up as securely as you want.
It's important to note that some types of body tape can be painful to remove, so it's recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions for removal. Additionally, some tapes may leave glue residue on the skin that can be difficult to remove.
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Add draped material for coverage without structure
If you want to cover a backless wedding dress without adding any structure, draped material is a great option. This can be achieved by adding a cape, shawl, stole, or scarf. For a simple and elegant cover-up, drape a pashmina shawl or stole around your shoulders, or wrap it around your forearms to cover your lower back. If you want to add a touch of glamour, opt for a lined capelet or a faux fur capelet. For a more casual look, a knitted capelet or a cosy cashmere pashmina shawl will keep you warm without adding bulk.
If you want to add draped material to the dress itself, consider adding a lace modesty panel. Choose a lace fabric that complements the colour of your dress and cut it into a V-shaped wedge that's slightly wider than the opening at the back. Sew it into the dress at the desired height to get the coverage you want. You can also use a sheer fabric like silk or muslin to add coverage without taking away from the dress's allure.
If you're looking for a more unique option, a draped wedding cape can add a romantic appeal to your bridal style. A thin, silky fabric can provide coverage while still showcasing the details of your dress, like buttons or an open back. You can also play with the length of the cape to create a dramatic effect, such as a cape that swoops just below the open back of your gown.
When adding draped material, consider the weather and your comfort. If it's warm, choose light and breathable fabrics, and if it's chilly, opt for thicker options or layers to keep you cosy.
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Ask a seamstress to cover the back with matching fabric
If you want to cover the back of your wedding dress, one option is to ask a seamstress to sew additional fabric into the dress. This fabric can be chosen to match the colour and style of the dress, creating a seamless look.
One option for the fabric is a dainty lace, cut into a V-shaped wedge that is slightly wider than the opening at the back of the dress. This can be sewn into the back of the dress at the desired height, providing coverage while maintaining the alluring look of a backless dress. You can also use contrasting or complementary colours, such as cream lace with a dark blue dress.
Another option is to use illusion fabric, which is stretchy and sheer, similar to the material used for nylons or pantyhose. This fabric can be cut into a shape that matches the back of the dress and sewn in place, creating a "nude" look.
If you are not comfortable with making these alterations yourself, a seamstress will be able to advise on the best type of fabric and colour to use, as well as ensuring a professional finish.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to cover up your back in a backless wedding dress. You could wear a jacket or shawl, or add a bolero jacket, a lace modesty panel, or draped material.
A lace modesty panel is a piece of lace fabric that you cut into a V-shaped wedge and sew into the back of your dress. You can use lace that matches or complements the colour of your dress.
Consider the weather when choosing a cover-up for your backless wedding dress. If it's warm, opt for something light and breathable, like a silk or sheer muslin shawl. If it's cold, choose a jacket with long sleeves, a lined capelet, or a thick stole.
Adhesive bras are a good option for backless dresses as they stick directly to your skin and provide support and coverage. You can also use body tape to shape and support your bust.
You can ask a seamstress to cover the back of your backless wedding dress. You will need to buy extra fabric that matches your dress, which may be expensive. Alternatively, you could try to special order the dress with a covered back.
