If there’s one day that your lingerie matters, it’s on your wedding day! However, just as every bride has individual taste when it comes to the dress itself, so is lingerie a very personal choice. Some brides will opt for comfort on the day, while others will go for extravagant, daring lingerie sets, and others will look to shapewear to give themselves a honed and streamlined silhouette. Some dresses will even come with built-in support, with boned corsets sewn into the fabric of the dress itself. However, most brides will want to choose something special to wear, a bridal lingerie piece that’s ultra-feminine, something that little bit extravagant and special, to give them extra inner confidence to glide down the aisle feeling super confident.
In this post, we’ll look at the choices out there, from the best bras to suit different necklines, why briefs matter and how to use shapewear to your advantage.
Bridal bras
When it comes to the type of bra that you choose, this will depend on the neckline of your dress, as well as how low the back goes. Here’s a brief guide to help you make the right decision:
Off the shoulder – if you’ve chosen this sophisticated look, then you’ll need to invest in a strapless bra. Look for plunge style options. A plunge bra is designed for a lower neckline, and will ensure you’re well supported and have a beautiful décolletage, but that the bra won’t be seen.
Illusion – this neckline is becoming increasingly popular. It gives the illusion of being strapless, without any of the worry that your dress might need hitching up to retain your modesty! A strapless bra is again the best option for this style of neckline, just don’t be tempted to wear clear straps, these are always visible and will really take away from your intended look.
Straight/sweetheart strapless – Ah, this is a lovely classic style that always looks stunning. You’ll definitely need to wear a strapless bra if your dress doesn’t have built-in support. Look for longline strapless bras, these are great for staying in place and suit a lower back. Another great tip is to use gripper tape to ensure your hidden support stays out of sight!
V neck – A more modest neckline needn’t mean a less dramatic cleavage. Given you’ve got the straps to support you, why not go for a padded plunge bra for maximum effect? Also, for maximum shaping, try a balcony style plunge bra, this lifts in all the right places and will give you an amazing, perky shape.
Beautiful briefs
Selecting the right briefs is another important decision for brides in waiting. You’ll want to be comfortable, but this is also the perfect time to splurge on some beautiful briefs that have elegant, intricate detailing. There are some exquisite lingerie sets to make you feel glamorous on your big day, but if you’re buying your lingerie separately then go for seamless, light as a feather brazilian or thong style briefs that won’t be visible under your dress.
Shapewear for perfect contouring
The best shapewear will always be invisible under clothing and is designed to accentuate your curves and smooth out problem areas. There are many different types of shapewear depending on your body type and the area you need to minimise. Here’s some great tips for you to follow:
Corsets – these are the perfect choice if you’ve opted for a strapless dress. However, their body-morphing qualities mean they’re an excellent choice for many brides, no matter the style of neckline. A good corset will accentuate your bust and slim down your waist, while allowing your hips to shine, giving you that much-coveted hourglass silhouette. Just make sure you can easily stand and sit if you opt for a corset, as the number one rule is that in order to look good, you’ve got to feel good, and that also means you’ve got to be comfortable and able to move around with ease!
Shaping bras – if a corset is a step too far for you, and you have an ample bosom, then look for a shaping bra. These clever bras will have panels under the arms and on the back, to smooth out any unwanted lumps and bumps.
Shaping slips – these are a great option for smoothing out your abdomen, tummy and hips, and if you go for an open bust slip, you can wear them with your choice of bra. If you also need thigh slimming, then opt for open bust shaping shorts. However, with this choice then make sure you’ve got your wedding night lingerie sorted too, to avoid an awkward Bridget Jones moment!
Control briefs – these can be a good option, but only if you choose a brazilian or thong style, or you risk a VPL. High waisted control briefs can be good for controlling weight around the abdomen, if you’re an apple shape, but this style can tend to roll down, so if you’re looking for control in the upper abdomen then we recommend a shaping slip, for maximum comfort and impact.
We hope our bridal lingerie guide helps you find the right foundation garments for your special day. Here at Elle Courbee, we specialise in shapewear for especially curvy ladies, so if you’re looking for plus size shapewear then browse our selection today. We have a fantastic range, including many that will help you look and feel amazing on your wedding day.