Mon 8th Apr 2024

Find the Perfect Bra and Underwear for Every Outfit

Finding the perfect lingerie to complement your outfit can be a little tricky, but it's essential for feeling comfortable and confident. Whether you're wearing a backless dress, a plunging v-neck or a statement bodycon, we've got you covered with our expert guide on all things underwear.

What Bras to Wear with a Backless Dresses

Going backless? For a smooth, invisible look under backless dresses, a stick-on bra is the perfect option. These bras use a silicone-based adhesive that sticks to your skin, meaning you get all the support without visible straps or bands. Here’s a little reminder – ensure the adhesive is strong enough for your needs and if you have a larger bust, opt for styles with wings for extra coverage and a more secure hold. Another choice is a low-back bra, which features a U-shaped band that dips low on your back allowing you to wear backless styles with ease. 

For a completely bra-free look, nipple covers offer a discreet solution. Choose a size and material that blends seamlessly with your skin tone and provides opacity. Consider reusable silicone covers for long-term wear and comfort - they’re an accessory every lingerie drawer needs. 

Boob tape has become a popular choice for backless dresses, it allows for support, a customized lift and can also be used to create cleavage - even for larger breasts. However, choosing the right tape and applying it correctly is very important. Choose hypoallergenic, medical-grade tape to avoid irritation and protect your nipples when applying for a more comfortable removal.

Wonderbra Ultimate Backless Bra

What Bras to Wear with a Strapless Dress

Strapless bras are designed to stay in place without the need for straps, making them a no-brainer for pairing with strapless dresses. Look for a wide, supportive band that doesn't dig in and cups that fully enclose your breasts without spilling over. Bras with silicone lining or grippy elastics that prevent slipping will help you feel more secure and comfortable. A well-fitted strapless bra shouldn't require constant readjusting, use an online measuring guide or book an appointment with a bra fit expert to find your perfect size. 

Convertible multiway bras or bras with clear straps are also a great option that allow for more versatility if you only have a few pieces that require a strapless bra. These bras offer the best of both worlds; wear them strapless for a seamless look or utilize the straps for extra support with dresses that have narrow straps or plunging necklines.

Sculptresse Dana Strapless Wired Bra

What Bra to Wear with a Deep V-Neck Dress

For deep V-necks, a plunge bra is essential. Designed specifically for deep necklines, a plunge bra features a lower centre gore that dips below the bustline allowing you to show off your silhouette without a bra peeking through. For a smooth and seamless finish, look for styles with good side support to prevent your bust from overflowing the cups. 

If you prefer a touch more coverage than a plunge bra offers, a low-cut bra is a great option. It has a slightly higher centre gore than a plunge bra, providing more support while still allowing you to wear that deep V-neck with confidence. Alternatively, you can try a demi-cup bra, which offers a lower cut than traditional bras.

Boob tape and nipple covers are a must-have for deep plunging dresses and tops too. Remember to always make sure you use medical-grade tape, your skin deserves to be protected.

What Bras to Wear with a Spaghetti Strap:

When wearing spaghetti strap tops or dresses, you'll want a bra with thin, seamless straps that won't peek through. Bralettes with delicate lace straps can add a finishing touch under a thin spaghetti strap whilst offering a comfortable, lightly supportive feel. These are great for smaller busts but might not provide all the support you need. 

A good strapless bra can also work under spaghetti straps; especially if it offers a clear or convertible strap option. You get the support of a bra whilst maintaining the delicate look of the spaghetti straps - a winning fashion combination. 

Ann Summers Sexy Lace Planet Plunge Bra

What Bras to Wear with a Racer Back Vest

For racer back tops or vests, a racer back bra is your go-to. Designed with straps that meet in a Y-shape at the back, the strap sits away from the traditional position ensuring a smooth, seamless look under all your racer vests and tops. 

If you don’t want to invest in a racer back bra for only a few outfits, a bra clip is a great solution. The clip attaches to the back of your chosen bra and pulls the straps to the centre of your back to create the racer back shape. Some convertible bras also offer a racerback strap option which is perfect for maximizing versatility – the options are endless. 

OOLA Moulded Strapless Bra

What Underwear to Wear for High Split Dresses and Skirts

When styling a high-split skirt, you'll want underwear that provides coverage without being visible. Seamless thongs or high cut briefs are ideal as they offer a flawless silhouette and won't show through the split.

Looking for shapewear to pair with a high-split dress? High-cut tummy control briefs or thong body shapers sit higher on the leg meaning you’ll avoid any wardrobe malfunctions. If you want more coverage or want to prevent thigh chaffing, choose shapewear shorts with one leg - this style is designed to be worn with high-slit outfits. Plus, you can reverse the shorts depending on where the slit on your dress is. Simple, right?

MAGIC Bodyfashion Medium Control Solutions Reversible Shorts

What Underwear to Wear with Bodycon Dresses and Tight-Fitting Clothing

Bodycon dresses and tight-fitting clothing can be super flattering, but they require seamless underwear that won't show through. Seamless thongs are your secret weapon for avoiding panty lines under tight-fitting clothing; choose a thong made from a smooth, breathable microfiber fabric for an invisible finish. 

Seamless boy shorts and briefs also offer a comfortable and discreet option under tight clothing. They provide more coverage than thongs while remaining invisible under even the most form-fitting dresses and trousers. Look for laser-cut styles and select underwear that matches your skin tone for the ultimate, sleek look.

For a more sculpted silhouette under fitted clothing, consider shapewear. Bodysuits will prevent a knicker line across your stomach as they cover your entire torso, making them a perfect match for bodycon dresses. Thigh shapers extend over the area where you would typically see VPL, and their knicker line ends on your thigh making it less visible. We’ll be pairing ours with trousers and longer dresses this season. 

Invisible Solutions Deep Thong

What Underwear to Wear with Sheer or Light-Coloured Clothing

Sheer or light-coloured clothing requires strategic underwear choices to avoid any unwanted shadows or VPL. Similar to bodycon styles, you should prioritise seamless, nude underwear in a shade that complements your skin tone. Avoid dark coloured lingerie or styles with visible seams, such as lace or embroidered edges. Shapewear is another must-have option in your lingerie drawer; a bodysuit in your skin tone will prevent underwear outlines under sheer clothing and will sculpt you in all the right places. 

MAGISCULPT Light Control Smoothing Vest Bodysuit

The key to feeling confident and comfortable in any outfit is choosing the right lingerie and with this guide, you'll always find the essential base layers for any outfit. It’s what’s underneath that counts.