We describe types of product, not specific ones, and earn no commission. Try any solution with the actual dress, at home, before the event.
Step 1: how low is the back?
- Mid-low: the back ends around the bra line or an inch or two below.
- Low: down to the waist.
- Fully open, or with thin straps and cut-outs.
Step 2: choose by back depth and cup size
| Back | AA to C | D to F | FF and above |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid-low | Low-back converter; multiway bra | Low-back converter on a firm bra; low-back bra | Low-back longline or basque |
| Low, to the waist | Adhesive cups; low-back bodysuit | Low-back bodysuit; plunge backless bra with a waist band | Low-back basque or bodysuit; built-in support |
| Fully open | Adhesive cups; tape; nipple covers | Tape; built-in cups | Support sewn into the dress |
The options explained
Low-back converter strap
An elastic strap that hooks onto the back of your own bra, passes around your waist and fastens at the front, pulling the band down by several inches. It is inexpensive and lets you wear a bra you know fits. It works best with a firm band, and can pull the cups slightly downward, so test it under the dress.
Multiway bra
A bra with detachable straps that can be arranged as a halter, crossed, one-shouldered or low-back, often with a converter included. Size it as you would a strapless: see the strapless bra size guide.
Low-back bras, longlines and basques
Made with a band that dips at the back, anchored by a longer body that grips the waist. These give real support with a low back and are the best option at fuller cup sizes. Full-bust brands make them in UK cup sizes.
Low-back bodysuits
A bodysuit with built-in cups and a scooped back. The whole garment holds the cups in place, which makes it more secure than a band alone.
Adhesive (stick-on) cups
Silicone or fabric cups that stick directly to the skin, sometimes joined by a front clasp that draws them together. They give coverage, a smooth shape and some cleavage. They are sized by cup, usually A to D or thereabouts, and support is limited.
Breast tape
Skin-safe tape applied in strips to lift and hold. It can be arranged to suit any neckline or back and works across a wider range of sizes than adhesive cups. It takes practice, so do a trial run. Do a patch test first, cover the nipples before taping, and remove it slowly with oil.
Support built into the dress
A dressmaker can sew in cups, boning or an inner corselette. For a formal dress and a fuller bust, this is often the most comfortable and secure answer.
Tips for adhesives and tape
- Apply to clean, dry skin with no lotion, oil or deodorant nearby.
- Patch test a small piece for a few hours a day or two before, especially with sensitive skin.
- Avoid broken, irritated or sunburnt skin.
- Heat and sweat reduce the hold. Plan accordingly for a summer wedding or a night of dancing.
- Remove gently, with warm water or oil.
Before the day
- Try the solution with the dress, and move, sit and raise your arms in it.
- Check the back in a mirror or take a photo.
- Wear it for an hour to check comfort.
- Have a spare or a backup.
For bridal outfits in particular, see best bras for a wedding dress.
Frequently asked questions
What bra do you wear with a backless dress?
It depends on how low the back is and on your cup size. For a mid-low back, a low-back converter strap on an ordinary bra or a multiway bra. For a very low or fully open back, adhesive cups, breast tape, or support sewn into the dress.
Do stick-on bras work for large busts?
They give coverage and some shaping. They cannot give the lift and support of a bra with a band. From roughly a D or DD cup upward, a low-back bra or bodysuit, or cups and boning built into the dress, is a more dependable choice.
Is it all right to go without a bra?
Of course, if you are comfortable. Fabric weight, lining and the cut of the dress make a big difference. Nipple covers give a smooth finish under thin fabrics.
Not measured recently? It takes two minutes.
Open the bra size calculator →