Blog

strapless bra

Here Comes the Mother of the Bride! 10 Bra Solutions for the Big Day

  |   By Laurie Shapiro

Being the mother of the bride is almost as big of a day for you as it is for her! You want to look your best, but with a day that can go into the wee hours of the night you'll want to be comfortable, too. Special occasion dresses call for specially designed lingerie. Whether you're playing up your pretty shoulders or a toned back, there's a bra solution that will help you look and feel fabulous.

Wedding day lingerie is all about performance. It should lift and support, smooth and shape. It should mold to your body and flaunt your best assets. You should be able to put it on and forget about it. You shouldn't feel restricted, fiddle with straps, or worry about lumps or bumps. The best mother of the bride bras will both show off your dress and your confidence!

These ten bra solutions address everything from tricky straps to back smoothing. Many of these do double duty and are easily incorporated into everyday wear, too, so you'll get your money's worth. Make sure to try them on with your dress, even practice twirling on the dance floor to see how they work. And before you embark on an epically long day, try wearing your choice for long periods to ensure it's comfortable and won't distract you from having fun on the big day.


We earn a commission when you follow links on this page to make a purchase. Click here to learn more about our affiliate procedures and privacy policy.


Tricky straps: Many convertible bras feature multi-way straps that can accommodate many different looks. Look for styles that convert to halter, criss-cross, or one shoulder. This adds an extra level of security from standard strapless styles. Clear straps are also helpful if you're worried a strap might peek through as you move through the night (or if your dress is in a semi-sheer fabric).

strapless bra
 
Curvy Couture Strapless Sensation 7 Way Bra
Can be worn strapless, traditional, halter, criss-cross, and one shoulder
Available in band sizes 34-44 with cup sizes C-H
Via HerRoom
 
bra solutions
 
 Le Mystere Dos Nu II Convertible Bra
Low backed convertible bra can be worn traditional, halter, criss-cross, or one shoulder
Available in band sizes 32-38 with cup sizes A-F
Via HerRoom

Low backs: A low-cut back has as much drama as a low-cut front, and may be more flattering for mothers of the bride. Some convertible bras are designed with low set straps, or feature an additional band that creates a totally backless look. Many bustiers dip in the back, too, and also serve to smooth the midsection (which is helpful when your low back style is in a clingy fabric).

bra solutions
 
Va Bien Ultra Lift Low Plunge Convertible Bra
With the included backless band this bra can be worn completely backless
Available in band sizes 32-38 with cup sizes C-E
Via HerRoom
 
bra solutions
 
Va Bien Low Back Strapless Bustier
Spiral boning throughout provides flexible shaping with a plunge back
Available in band sizes 32-38 with cup sizes B-DD
Via Nordstrom

Stay put strapless: There are so many strapless bras on the market, but not all strapless bras are created the same. Look for silicone edging along the band and even the cup edge for budge-free support. A longline style also has the benefit of additional boning and a wider strap (with more hook and eye closures) for additional security.

strapless longline
 
Freya Deco Strapless Longline Bra
Contour underwire cups with additional side boning and detachable convertible straps
Available in band sizes 28-38 with cup sizes B-G
Via HerRoom
 
strapless bra
 
Wacoal The Red Carpet Strapless Bra
Wide cushioned band with comfortable arched center and detachable convertible straps
Available in band sizes 30-42 with cup sizes C-H
Via HerRoom

Back smoothing: If your dress is a clingy knit, you'll want to consider a bra that smooths for a sleek look. These bras are specifically designed to reduce the dreaded back fat and feature high side wings, extra boning, or even a front closure to eliminate the bulky look of band fasteners.

back smoothing bra
 
Glamorise Front Closure Back Smoothing Bra
Front closure and high side wings are designed to eliminate back bulge
Available in band sizes 36-48 with cup sizes D-G
Via Bare Necessities
 
back smoothing bra
 
Elila Stretch Lace Back Smoothing Bra
Tall sides have boning for extra support and wide back band smooths
Available in band sizes 36-46 with cup sizes E-K
Via HerRoom

Slimming bodysuits: When all over smoothing will help you feel your best, a shapewear bodysuit is a good choice. Whether you choose an all-in-one piece or one that is meant to be worn with your favorite bra, look for items that slim the midriff and back. Fuller cut bottoms shouldn't dig or bind and should have a silicone edge to stay in place. Also, a crotch fastener is key for quick bathroom breaks!

control bodysuit
 
Va Bien Firm Control Bodysuit
Hidden criss-cross front panels smooth the tummy
Available in band sizes 34-48 with cup sizes B-DD
Via HerRoom
 
underbust bodysuit
 
DKNY Smoothing Underbust Bodysuit
Designed to be worn with your own bra while smoothing the back and midriff
Available in sizes S-L
Via Nordstrom

When you wear special occasion dresses what sorts of performance foundation pieces have worked best for you? Are there any newer styles on this list that you'd like to try?

Full disclosure: this post contains affiliate links.

Facebooktwitterredditpinterestlinkedinmail