Low Back Strapless Bra

The low back strapless bra, sometimes also called a strapless long-line bra, dates from the 1930s and is an absolute must for backless, strapless dresses, or even just dresses with spaghetti straps and plunging necklines. Although they can often be uncomfortable after several hours, they are still healthier and a better investment than an adhesive bra.

Although times were lean, the 1930s was still an era of great glamour. Evening gowns were cut on the bias so that they fell flatteringly over the body and plunged to the floor. Many of them were daringly cut with low backs and fronts. However, although there are those who will attest that women did not wear bras with these gowns, nothing could be further from the truth. No self-respecting woman of any class would dare ever go without breast support at any time, and especially not at a high-class affair. Lingerie makers rose to the challenge with the long-line corset, which fastened around the waist and was boned through the front so that it clung to the body like a merry widow. It wasn’t comfortable, but it gave support and protected a woman’s modesty and all-important reputation.

The basic low back strapless bra has not changed much since the 1930s, although it is moderately more comfortable, thanks to better cushioning around the boning, which these days is usually made of plastic or flexible metal, rather than the less pliable materials of old. The bras act like a bustier in fit and form as most include push-up pads in the cups to offer more shaping.

Further comfort can be found in the use of mesh fabric, which breathes more readily and also lies more smoothly under the dress. Since you are likely to be wearing a backless dress in hot weather, an undergarment that breathes will make the evening that much more comfortable and thus fun.

You can also find backless strapless bras that are actually bodysuits. These allow for a skintight dress, but have to adhere so tightly to the body that you probably don’t want to wear it for more than a few hours.

As with most lingerie, you are going to get the best fit and feel if you buy the bra in person and can try it on with a professional fitter. Unfortunately, this is not always possible. But some online shops can provide excellent customer service and virtual fitting, making it more likely you will end up with the bra you need.

A good shop to browse is Flattering Me, which specializes in strapless bras. The bra design on offer is smooth, contours to the body and offers the option of clear detachable straps for extra support. The straps can be worn in four different ways: over the shoulder, criss-crossed, as a halter or around the back. There are also loops for adding garter straps.

The web site offers fitting and sizing instructions based both on your cup size and the length of your torso. Since the bras are primarily designed for weddings, comfort is crucial and customer testimonials rave that this is the only such bra they’ve found that does the job without leaving welts. There is also the option for a petite bra – vital to the smaller customer. The bras are more expensive than many other options, but especially if you are shopping for your wedding, it’s worth the extra money for something that does the job and is comfortable.

For the retro girl who wants to wear a 1930s bra under a 1930s gown, there are many websites that specialize in vintage lingerie. Be aware that a very fitted item like a low back strapless bra, however, will be harder to find in good condition. If you do find one, consider having the bones replaced for comfort and ease of care.

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