Deborah Chan
When it comes to choosing what to wear under a wedding dress, there are several factors to consider, especially for plus-size brides. The type of wedding dress, level of support and comfort, and the desire for shapewear or not, all play a role in the final decision. From strapless bras and bodysuits to shapewear shorts and slips, the options are endless. The key is to choose undergarments that enhance the fit and look of the dress while ensuring the bride feels confident and comfortable throughout the day.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of undergarment | Shapewear, lingerie, bra, underwear, bodysuit, briefs, thong, garter, corset, slip, bustier, shaper |
| Type of shapewear | Shorts, hosiery, tank tops, high-waisted briefs, bodysuit |
| Fabric | Breathable, moisture-wicking, lightweight, compression fabrics |
| Compression level | Firm, high-compression |
| Structure | Boning |
| Color | Skin tone, neutral |
| Comfort | No riding up, bunching, or producing lines |
| Functionality | Easy to use, not too many straps, snaps, or buttons |
| Support | Built-in bra, sewn-in cups, corset, adhesive bras, backless bras |
| Style | Strapless, backless, low back, high slit |
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What You'll Learn
Shapewear for a smoothing effect
Shapewear is a type of undergarment designed to shape and contour the body, creating a smoother and more streamlined appearance. It is not a requirement to wear shapewear under your wedding dress, but it might be worth considering if you're wearing a form-fitting dress or a dress made from revealing fabric.
When searching for shapewear, opt for a comfortable fabric that is breathable and moisture-wicking. You'll want to avoid anything that is too tight and difficult to manoeuvre. Shapewear with high compression will give a super-smoothing look and support. For support throughout the bust, pieces with boning may be ideal. For those who want less structure under their gown, a simple slip will do the trick.
If you're looking for a smoothing effect on your hips, thighs, and butt, you may want to consider shapewear shorts. Pinsy's elevated shaping bodysuits provide medium-firm support and have a built-in power-mesh bra. Honeylove also offers a range of bodysuits, underwear, and shapewear, including the SuperPower brief, which provides targeted compression around the torso.
It is recommended that you try everything on and give it a test run before your wedding day to see how it feels after a few hours. You'll want to ensure that your shapewear is comfortable and that it stays in place.
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Strapless bras and bustiers
When choosing what to wear under a plus-size wedding dress, it's important to consider your comfort and confidence, as well as what will fit seamlessly under the dress. If your wedding dress is strapless, a strapless bra or bustier in a neutral colour that matches your skin tone is a good option.
For plus-size options, the Elomi Women's Plus Size Smooth Strapless Seamless Underwire T-Shirt Bra in Sahara is available in size 36J. The Va Bien Women's Plus Size Smooth Satin Hourglass Bustier in White is another option, available in size 42DD.
If you're seeking a long-line bra for added support, the Elila Smooth Longline Strapless Bra in Nude is a modern choice. The Va Bien Seamless Low Back Strapless Bustier is another low-back option that pairs well with low-back wedding dresses.
Ultimately, the choice of undergarments is a personal decision, and you should opt for what makes you feel comfortable and confident.
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Backless bras and bodysuits
If you're wearing a backless wedding dress, a very adhesive sticky bra is a great idea. Make sure you choose one that will stick even if you sweat. If you're looking for more coverage, a backless bodysuit is a good option. Shapellx offers a backless plunge thong bodysuit that provides hidden support and enhances your natural curves. For a halter or backless gown, a convertible bodysuit with bra cups and an underwire might be a good option. If you're looking for something with more compression, opt for high-compression pieces or structured styles with built-in boning or bras.
If you're wearing a dress with a low back, a smooth satin bustier or a low-back bustier might be a good option. For larger cup sizes, a seamless body with a deep plunge neckline is available in nude. If you're looking for something with more coverage, a firm control backless body with a plunge front might be a good option. For a completely smooth look in a backless dress, a completely backless body with a longer leg is a good choice.
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Skin-toned underwear
When choosing skin-toned underwear, it is important to select a shade that closely matches your natural skin tone. This will provide the best invisibility. Additionally, seamless underwear can help to eliminate visible panty lines. High-waisted briefs or shaping bodysuits that offer full coverage can also help to create a smooth silhouette.
If you are wearing a strapless dress, a skin-toned strapless bra can provide support while remaining invisible. It is worth noting that many strapless gowns come with padding, allowing you to forgo a bra altogether. However, if you feel you need the extra support, a strapless bra or a stick-on bra can be a good option. For backless dresses, a backless bodysuit or an adhesive bra can provide coverage and lift without the distraction of visible straps.
It is important to consider your comfort when choosing your underwear. You will be wearing your undergarments for an extended period, so it is crucial to select something that you feel comfortable and confident in. You may also want to consider the functionality of your lingerie, as you don't want to spend the day adjusting complicated garments. Ultimately, the underwear you choose is a personal choice and should be based on what makes you feel happy and comfortable.
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Built-in bras and sewn-in cups
Many wedding dresses come with built-in bras or sewn-in cups, which can be a great option for plus-size brides who need extra support. If your wedding dress does not have a built-in bra, you can ask your alterations team to add padding or sew in cups to provide extra support. This is a seamless solution that eliminates the need for a separate bra.
When considering sewn-in cups, it is important to note that they will not provide any support on their own. The dress needs to have enough structure to provide support. Boning in dresses, for example, can help give shape and support. If you are unsure about sewn-in cups, consult with your alterations seamstress to discuss options. They may be able to cut up your bra and sew it into the dress to provide full support.
If you opt for a revealing ensemble with a low neckline, cut-outs, or illusion netting around the bust, sewn-in cups can provide the necessary support. Adhesive bras, including those that can be worn separately, can also be a good option for dresses with a low back or completely backless design. However, it is crucial to choose underwear that dips low enough to remain invisible.
For a halter dress, stick-on bras can be a suitable option if you don't need much support. Convertible bras with adjustable straps can also be tailored to remain discreetly hidden while providing the necessary support. If your wedding dress is form-fitting, seamless underwear or light shapewear can help achieve a smooth look without visible panty lines. High-waisted briefs, seamless thongs, or light shapewear such as high-waisted shorts can gently smooth the midsection and hips, allowing the dress to drape beautifully.
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Frequently asked questions
The type of underwear you choose depends on what you feel comfortable and confident in, and what will fit under your dress. You may want to wear something you're already used to, such as a push-up bra or shapewear. If you don't usually wear a bra, you may want to consider going braless, especially if your dress has built-in support. If not, opt for underwear that matches your skin tone to avoid it being visible.
Shapewear can help you feel more fitted under your dress and target any areas that could make you feel less confident. Look for shapewear that is comfortable and breathable, and that won't roll down or up. The cut and fabric of your gown will determine the level of compression and structure you need. For example, a simple slip will work for those who want less structure, while a high-compression piece will create a super-smoothing look.
Before shopping for a bra, consider getting a bra fitting to ensure you're wearing the right size. Opt for a strapless bra that will work with most dresses, and if you choose a dress that doesn't work with a regular strapless bra, you can shop for a different style. If you have a larger bust, consider a bra with boning for support. If your dress has a low back, plunging neckline, or cut-outs, ask your alterations team to add padding.
