What Do Brides Wear Under Their Wedding Dresses?

Most brides dream of their wedding dress but tend to forget about the unsung heroes beneath—undergarments. These trusty sidekicks not only enhance the dress's shape but also ensure you're comfy enough to dance the night away. From bras to shapewear, the options are as varied as your aunt's dance moves at the reception. Curious about bridal undergarments? Don't worry, we've got your back (and front) covered!

Many modern wedding gowns have things like cups and corsets included in the design. This means that the bride doesn’t have to worry about wearing a bra, because the support is already built into the dress! If your gown doesn’t have cups sewn into the chest or you just want extra support, you may want to wear a bra. Be sure to pick out a bra that will be hidden based on the cut of your gown. If your wedding dress features a plunging neckline or has an open back, you’ll want to look into some different bra styles. Strapless and backless bras are typically the best options when it comes to wedding dresses, but this will of course vary based on your gown.

While it certainly isn’t required, some brides choose to utilize shapewear in order to help them avoid dress bunching or underwear lines showing. Typically, once your gown has been altered you shouldn’t encounter bunching. While this is true, if your dress is especially slinky or the material is thin shapewear can be a great option to create a seamless look. Be sure to try on your shapewear with your gown ahead of your wedding day to make sure that your dress material doesn’t stick to the shapewear, which would defeat the purpose!

Don't worry about your neckline on the dancefloor! After alterations, your dress should stay up all night. For dresses with sleeves, use double-sided tape to keep it in place. If slipping persists, ask your seamstress to add a rubber silicon strap inside the bust or consider a bustier for extra support.

If you’re not sure whether or not adding additional undergarments is right for you, talk to your seamstress! The tailor performing your alterations will be able to tell you exactly what you do and do not need in order to achieve a perfect fit. Letting your seamstress know of any worries you have (for example – the gown slipping, cleavage, etc.) will also allow them to address your concerns in the alterations of your gown. Your seamstress can always sew in cups, lessen cleavage, add an underlay, or whatever other alterations will make you more comfortable in your gown. Being open and honest with them will ensure that you have a gown that fits you perfectly and makes you feel beautiful and confident on your wedding day.

The main point of undergarments is to keep you secure as you celebrate your new marriage. As a bride, you shouldn’t feel pressured to utilize shapewear if you don’t need to. If your dress provides all of the support you need, then feel free to skip the undergarments! The decision is all about what’s going to keep you comfortable and confident on your wedding day.