Bigger Busted Bridesmaids: When Bridesmaid Duty Calls

Your bridesmaid dress shouldn’t be a ‘situation’, but it can feel like one when you’re curvier on top than the rest. Dress buying can be stressful when the realisation hits that the smaller-busted bride may appreciate your event planning skills more than your natural assets.

Your bust is an asset but it can be hard to appreciate when it is squished into an ill-fitting dress; that is also strapless, low plunging, low-back and anything else you can think of to make it impossible to wear a supportive bra! Thinking about the endless possibilities of how a dress can hinder comfort makes us uncomfortable so we are happy to say there are solutions.   

Straps versus strapless

If you can wear a dress with straps, as opposed to a strapless dress, then definitely choose that option. Even one strap is better than no strap. We want you to look and feel fabulous in your bridesmaid dress, there are plenty of options if you are going completely strapless. It’s important to keep in mind that the right style is just as important as the right size, they can both make a world of difference.

Two of our favourite strapless bras are the Prima Donna Divine Strapless Bra (D-G cup) and Curvy Kate Luxe Strapless Bra (D-J cup). Both styles offer a completely different fit and shape so it is worth trying both, but if you are over a G cup then Curvy Kate will be your friend.

Customise your dress

The perfect solution to your bridesmaid dress woes could be wearing the same dress as the other bridesmaids, but altering yours to accommodate a supportive bra.  Adding a halter strap or slightly fuller sleeves to hide bra straps can work well. This will allow you to keep your straps on, or at least wear one strap. Considering clear bra straps to go with a multiway dress should be a serious option also.

Taking the plunge

If you have a bridesmaid dress with a serious plunge-loving neckline then try the Panache Koko Strapless Bra (D-G cup) - we usually suggest going up by a back-band in this bra because it fits firm. The Freya Deco is also a great strapless bra for those wearing a tight-fitting dress. The type of bra you end up with is going to make a big difference to how the dress will fit you. Each bra creates a different silhouette and will change the shape of your bust under your dress. This is also why we offer a courteous exchange policy for those in a bridal party. Make sure you ask your fitter about this in store and let them know you’re part of the bridal party.

Don't grin and bear it!

People can see when you’re uncomfortable, so unless you’ve got a poker face to rival that of Lady GaGa’s, make sure you have a conversation with the bride-to-be.

Don’t worry, it will eventually dawn on her that she may need to make changes to the dress if she wants you to feel and look comfortable on the day. Instead of waiting till the last minute when its harder to make changes, let her know straight away. You’ve been chosen as a bridesmaid because you’re one of her closest friends. Respect your friendship and be honest with her. Yes, it’s her day but she’ll want everyone sharing that joy, not hiking up their dress to prevent a nipple flash. It makes for great stories, but not beautiful wedding pictures. An unhappy bridesmaid isn’t what she wants.

Realise that you don’t have to sacrifice the pretty dress or wear something you’re uncomfortable in. Make sure you get your bra fitting and then try the dress before saying no. Better yet, bring the dress into store with you if you can. This will give you the best indication of which bra works well.

Next time someone brings out a show-stopping, low-back, strapless, figure-hugging number, you’ll be prepared with the best strapless bra, providing support in more ways than one.