Photos (Above, l.t.r.): Wedding dress: Karolien Verstraeten - Photographer: LUX Visual Storytellers / Wedding dress: Cermo Concept / Wedding dress: Dianna David
The foundation of your bridal look begins under your dress
What you wear under your wedding dress is almost as important as the dress itself. Lingerie and shapewear ensure a good fit, extra comfort, and the confidence you radiate on your big day. Well-chosen shapewear under your wedding dress supports, corrects where needed, and remains invisible all day.
Choose lingerie that suits your dress
Are you wearing a bridal gown with an open back, deep neckline, or transparent fabric? Make sure your lingerie matches. An adhesive bra, strapless body, or nude thong is often the best choice. Seek advice at your bridal shop or lingerie store and try on the lingerie with your wedding dress during a fitting.
Shapewear: corrective without being constrictive
Shapewear is for your silhouette and peace of mind. Many brides report feeling more confident with a solid foundation under their dress. Choose something that fits your body and helps you relax.
Shapewear under your wedding dress isn't a must, but it can help your dress fall more beautifully. Smoothing your silhouette provides 'calmness' in your look. Choose a seamless model that matches the cut of your dress:
Under an A-line: a high-waisted slip or lightly shaping shorts
Under a mermaid dress: a figure-shaping body or slip with long legs
Under a straight dress: a smooth shapewear dress or top
Always choose shapewear that is comfortable. You want to dance, sit, and eat without restriction.
Shapewear can certainly be beautiful too
Corrective underwear is no longer just functional. There are shapewear bodies with lace details, soft satin finishes, and models with a slight sheen. This way, you feel comfortable and it gives you extra confidence.
Material and color
A seamless finish and breathable materials are crucial. Choose nude tones that match your skin and avoid white, which can show through. Test your lingerie beforehand in natural light and daylight. Ensure no seams are visible in the fabric of your dress.
Don't forget your back and shoulders
A dress with a low back or open shoulders calls for creative solutions. Think of a strapless bra, adhesive cups, boob tape, nipple stickers, or a backless body. For strapless dresses, a well-fitting balconette or bandeau is essential.
Also bring your shoes, fit, and move
During your fitting, it's wise to wear your bridal shoes along with your lingerie. The height of your heels influences your posture and silhouette - and importantly, the length of your dress, if it still needs adjustment. Your shapewear needs to stay in place while standing, sitting, and moving.
Tip for when you try on your wedding dress: move, sit down, bend, make some dance moves, and breathe deeply. This ensures everything stays in place and you'll feel good. Bring your lingerie to your final fitting again.
While getting ready
While getting ready, when your hair & make-up are done and some photos are taken by your photographer, shapewear is not yet necessary. Choose soft, comfortable lingerie that looks beautiful in photos, such as a lace top or satin kimono. Note: if you wear a bra with straps at this time, the straps might leave marks on your skin when you later change into a strapless dress.
With the right lingerie, you'll feel confident, elegant, and entirely yourself, just as you should on your wedding day!
