When it comes to planning the perfect wedding, choosing the right dress is often the most exciting and crucial decision a bride makes. Among the many styles available, strapless wedding dresses continue to be a popular choice for brides seeking a chic and elegant look. Their timeless appeal offers a clean and flattering silhouette that highlights the shoulders, arms, and neckline. However, the beauty of a strapless wedding dress often raises questions about what to wear with it to complete the look.
A strapless gown, while stunning, leaves the shoulders and décolletage exposed, so it’s essential to choose complementary accessories and undergarments that enhance both comfort and style. Whether you’re concerned about keeping warm, adding a touch of elegance, or finding the right support, there are several options to consider. In this article, we’ll explore what to wear with a strapless wedding dress, from accessories to outerwear, shoes, and lingerie.
1. Bridal Accessories to Complement a Strapless Wedding Dress
Accessories are key to personalizing your wedding look, and when paired correctly with a strapless dress, they can elevate your appearance while adding an extra touch of glamour. Here’s a rundown of essential bridal accessories that pair beautifully with strapless wedding gowns:
Necklaces and Jewelry
A strapless wedding dress offers a perfect canvas for showcasing a beautiful necklace or statement jewelry. Because the neckline is open, it’s an excellent opportunity to add a sparkling touch to your outfit. However, it’s important to strike the right balance between simplicity and drama to avoid overwhelming the look.
Choker Necklaces: For brides seeking a bold, modern statement, a choker necklace can create a dramatic effect and highlight the neckline. This option works especially well with a sleek, minimalistic strapless gown.
Pendant Necklaces: A pendant necklace with a delicate chain can add subtle sophistication without drawing too much attention away from the dress. Opt for a simple diamond or gemstone pendant for a classic look.
Pearl Necklaces: Pearls never go out of style and complement almost every type of strapless wedding dress. A multi-strand pearl necklace can create a vintage vibe, while a single strand offers a more refined appearance.
For earrings, choose pieces that suit your face shape and overall style. Drop earrings, chandelier earrings, or simple studs are all great options depending on your personal taste.
Bracelets and Bangles
A strapless wedding dress leaves your arms exposed, making it the ideal opportunity to showcase bracelets or bangles. A delicate tennis bracelet or sparkling cuff can add a touch of glamour, while stacking bangles creates a playful, boho-inspired vibe. However, it’s essential to avoid over-accessorizing, especially if your dress already has intricate detailing. In that case, go for simpler, elegant pieces that will not compete with your gown.
Hair Accessories
Hair accessories can also complement a strapless wedding dress, depending on your hairstyle. Whether you’re going for a chic updo or soft waves, consider these accessories to enhance your look:
Veils: A veil is a classic addition to any bridal ensemble, and it works beautifully with strapless gowns. You can opt for a cathedral-length veil for a dramatic effect or a birdcage veil for a more vintage look.
Headbands and Tiara: If you want to add a bit of sparkle to your hairstyle, a tiara or headband is a beautiful way to frame your face and enhance your strapless gown. A crystal-encrusted headband adds a regal touch, while a floral crown gives a boho-chic flair.
Hairpins and Clips: For a more understated touch, hairpins or clips adorned with pearls, crystals, or flowers can add an elegant finish to your bridal hairstyle without overwhelming the dress.
2. Outerwear for Strapless Wedding Dresses
Although strapless dresses are a perfect choice for warmer months, the colder seasons might necessitate something to keep you warm. Fortunately, there are several stylish outerwear options that work beautifully with a strapless wedding dress:
Boleros and Shrugs
A bolero or shrug is an ideal cover-up for a strapless wedding dress, as it provides warmth while maintaining the elegant feel of the dress. These lightweight garments come in a variety of fabrics, including lace, satin, and chiffon, and can add a layer of texture to your bridal look.
Lace Boleros: Lace boleros are perfect for brides who want a vintage-inspired look. The intricate patterns of lace add a delicate, romantic touch to a strapless dress, and the sheer fabric still allows the dress’s neckline to be showcased.
Satin or Silk Shrugs: A satin or silk shrug is a great option if you’re aiming for a classic, refined look. These materials provide a smooth, luxurious texture that complements the sleek lines of a strapless gown.
Chiffon Cover-Ups: A chiffon shrug is a soft and airy option that adds a graceful, flowing element to your outfit. This option works especially well for beach or destination weddings.
Faux Fur Wraps and Capes
For a winter or colder weather wedding, a faux fur wrap or cape is both practical and fashionable. A fur wrap will keep you warm and add an extra layer of luxury to your gown. If you prefer a cape, opt for a knee-length or floor-length style to create a dramatic, fairytale effect. These can be worn over the shoulders to provide warmth while still showcasing the strapless neckline.
Jackets or Blazers
For a modern or more edgy bridal look, a tailored jacket or blazer can be an excellent choice for pairing with a strapless wedding dress. A fitted jacket, whether satin, crepe, or even leather, can lend a chic, contemporary vibe to your bridal look. This option works well for brides who want to add structure and sophistication to their ensemble.
3. Undergarments for a Strapless Wedding Dress
When wearing a strapless wedding dress, the right undergarments are crucial for ensuring comfort, support, and a smooth silhouette. The wrong undergarments can cause discomfort or disrupt the look of your dress. Here are the key considerations when choosing undergarments for your strapless gown:
Strapless Bra
A strapless bra is a must for most strapless wedding dresses, providing the necessary support and shaping. It’s essential to choose a bra that fits well and complements your dress’s structure.
Push-Up Bra: If you’re looking to enhance your bustline, a strapless push-up bra is a good choice. It provides support while giving you a bit of lift for a flattering shape.
Longline Bra: For extra support, consider a longline bra, which extends further down the torso, providing added shaping and a smooth, seamless appearance.
Seamless Bra: For a more minimalist look, a seamless strapless bra offers comfort and smoothness without any noticeable lines. Look for one that has built-in padding or extra support for a more secure fit.
Shapewear
Shapewear is a fantastic option for creating a smooth silhouette, especially if your strapless wedding dress is form-fitting. Consider options like high-waisted briefs, a body shaper, or a corset, depending on the level of shaping and support you desire. Shapewear can also help with posture, ensuring you stand tall and elegant throughout your big day.
Silk Slip
For a touch of luxury and to prevent your dress from clinging to your skin, a silk slip is a beautiful choice. Not only does it help with comfort, but it also ensures that your dress drapes perfectly. If your dress is sheer or made of a delicate fabric, a slip can also provide coverage.
4. Shoes for a Strapless Wedding Dress
The shoes you wear with your strapless wedding dress should complement the style of the gown and the overall theme of your wedding. Since the focus of a strapless dress is on the upper body, you can have a bit more fun with footwear.
Heels: Heels are a classic choice for a wedding, as they elongate the legs and add height. Consider pumps, strappy sandals, or even heeled boots, depending on your style.
Flats: For comfort or a more relaxed wedding, flat shoes or ballet flats are a great alternative. Opt for embellished or lace flats to add a touch of bridal elegance.
Wedges: Wedges are a good option if you’re having a beach or outdoor wedding, as they provide stability and comfort while still offering height.
Foot Jewelry
For a unique touch, consider adding foot jewelry like anklets or decorative toe rings. This option is especially fitting for beach or destination weddings, where bare feet or open-toed shoes are the norm.
5. What About a Veil with a Strapless Wedding Dress?
A veil is often an essential element for brides, and it pairs beautifully with a strapless wedding dress. The key is choosing a veil that complements the simplicity of the strapless style.
Cathedral Veil: If you’re aiming for a traditional, dramatic look, a long cathedral veil pairs perfectly with a strapless gown, adding an elegant, timeless feel.
Fingertip Veil: For a more modern, minimalist look, a fingertip veil or shorter veil that just brushes the shoulders can create a balanced effect.
Birdcage Veil: If you’re going for a vintage-inspired look, a birdcage veil is an excellent choice, providing a subtle yet charming touch.
Conclusion
A strapless wedding dress is a timeless and elegant choice that offers versatility and room for creativity in styling. From choosing the right accessories and outerwear to finding the perfect undergarments and shoes, there are many ways to personalize your look and make your wedding day truly unforgettable. By thoughtfully selecting complementary elements, you can ensure that your strapless gown becomes the centerpiece of a beautifully coordinated bridal ensemble.
