Backless dresses are a great way to show off some skin while looking stylish. Whether it’s a halter neck, a lace back, a deep v, or a keyhole back, there is a backless dress for every occasion and every body type.
However, what kind of bra do you wear with a backless dress? You don’t want to ruin the look of your outfit with visible straps or hooks, or feel uncomfortable with no support at all.
Luckily, there are many types of bras that can work with backless dresses. So, if you’ve picked out a gorgeous backless dress for an upcoming event but are stumped on what bra to wear, this article is for you!
Perhaps the easiest solution for a backless dress is tape. If simplicity is what you are after, turn to boob tape. Simply position the adhesive strips in a way that lifts and supports your breasts. Experiment a bit to find what pattern works best for your dress style and décolletage.
However, if you are here, it means you are probably looking for options that involve actual bras. Let’s go over the best kinds of bras that won’t peek from an open or low back:
Table of Contents
- 1. Adhesive Bras
- 2. Convertible Bras
- 3. Racerback Bras
- 4. Low-Back Multiway Bras
- 4. Strapless Bras
- 5. Low-Back Bras
- 6. Stick-On Bras
- 7. Deep Plunge Bras
- 8. Lace Back Bras
- 9. Bra converters
1. Adhesive Bras
As we mentioned in our article on how to wear a bra with a backless top, when it comes to backless dresses, adhesive bras are the unsung heroes. These bras have no back or side wings and are designed to stick directly onto your skin, offering coverage and support without compromising your dress's open-back design. They're perfect for dresses with intricate lacework or a wide-open back.
They are also ideal for backless dresses that have a low back, a deep v, or a plunge neckline, as they provide some lift and shape without any straps or bands. Adhesive bras come in different styles, such as cups, petals, or wings, and can be reusable or disposable. Some adhesive bras also have a front closure that can enhance your cleavage. Adhesive bras are best suited for small to medium bust sizes, as they may not offer enough support for larger breasts.
2. Convertible Bras
Convertible bras are your wardrobe's versatile sidekick. With adjustable and removable straps, they can be configured into various styles, including crisscross or halter neck. This adaptability makes them an excellent choice for backless dresses, providing support without visible straps. For more info, please be sure to also read our what kind of bra to wear with a backless dress guide.
3. Racerback Bras
For dresses with a sportier vibe or a racerback cut, a racerback bra is the ideal companion. These are bras that have straps that cross at the back, forming a V or a T shape. They are suitable for backless dresses that have a racerback, a keyhole back, or a halter neck, as they match the shape of the dress and stay hidden. Racerback bras can have different cups, such as push-up, sports, or bralette, and can have different closures, such as front, back, or hook-and-eye. Racerback bras are a versatile choice for all bust sizes, as they offer support, lift, and style.
4. Low-Back Multiway Bras
For deep-V looks, low-back multiway bras allow you to crisscross the straps into various configurations to suit different dresses. Halter necks, one-shoulder, racerback, asymmetry – you’ve got options! Focus on finding a low-back multiway bra with a band short enough not to show.
4. Strapless Bras
Strapless bras are bras that have no straps, but have a band that goes around your torso. They are perfect for backless dresses that have a high back, a wide back, or a strapless neckline, as they offer more support and coverage than adhesive bras. Strapless bras come in various shapes, such as balconette, demi, or full cup, and can have underwire, padding, or boning for extra lift and stability. Strapless bras are suitable for all bust sizes, as long as you find the right fit and style for your dress.
5. Low-Back Bras
Specifically crafted for low-back dresses, low-back bras feature a deep plunge in the back, allowing you to maintain modesty without sacrificing style. These bras ensure your dress takes center stage while providing the support you need, which is why they are some of the best types of bras to wear with different dresses, not just backless ones.
These are bras that have a band that goes lower than the usual bras, usually at the waist or below. They are designed for backless dresses that have a low back, but not too low that the band would show. Low-back bras can have straps or be strapless, and can have different features, such as underwire, padding, or lace. Low-back bras are a good option for medium to large bust sizes, as they offer more support and comfort than adhesive bras.
6. Stick-On Bras
Similar to adhesive bras, stick-on bras offer a minimalist solution for backless dresses. These bras come with adhesive cups that provide coverage and support, giving you a natural look without visible straps or closures.
7. Deep Plunge Bras
For dresses with a daring deep V-neckline and a backless design, a deep plunge bra is your go-to option. These bras offer the perfect balance of support and sultriness, allowing you to flaunt your fashion-forward style with confidence. Read more about this in our guide on how to wear a deep v neck dress without a bra.
8. Lace Back Bras
When your backless dress features intricate lace details, opt for a lace-back bra that seamlessly blends with your dress. These bras add an extra layer of elegance, ensuring your lingerie complements the dress's aesthetic.
9. Bra converters
These are accessories that can transform your regular bra into a low-back or a racerback bra. We cover this subject in great detail in our guide on how to wear a backless dress with a normal bra, but the long and short of it is that bra converters are basically straps or clips that attach to your bra and adjust the length and the position of the band and the straps. They are a convenient and affordable way to wear your favorite bra with a backless dress, without having to buy a new one. Bra converters can work with most bras, as long as they have removable or adjustable straps, and can fit all bust sizes.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are many types of bras to wear with a backless dress. If you want to go braless instead, be sure to check out any of our detailed guides on the subject, including how to wear a dress without a bra and how to wear a backless dress without a bra.
The key is to find a bra that offers the right balance of support, comfort, and invisibility. Remember to also always try on your bra with your dress before wearing it.
Hopefully, with this guide, the next time you slip into that gorgeous open-back dress, you'll know exactly what kind of bra to wear. Good luck!