How to Keep a Strapless Wedding Dress from Falling Down on the Big Day

A strapless wedding dress is a classic choice for your big day, but if you're worried about indecent exposure (like flashing all your guests while breaking it down on the dance floor), then there are a few things to keep in mind before opting for this silhouette. To start, not all strapless gowns are designed to fit the same, which means it's important to select a look that makes you feel comfortable before making your debut down the aisle.

However, since wardrobe malfunctions can sometimes be inevitable, we thought it might be helpful to provide a few tips and tricks that'll help keep your ensemble intact once it's time to say "I do." Ready to learn more? From the best undergarments to shop to why alterations are so critical, here are the most effective ways to ensure you aren't tugging at your dress throughout your wedding ceremony and reception.

Get Your Dress Altered

According to Terry Hall, head of retail and business development at Amsale, the most important aspect of a bride's gown, regardless of style, is the fit. And if your gown doesn't fit once you receive it, be sure to find a seamstress that'll help with alterations to eliminate the potential of your ensemble falling down.

"Great alterations can make an inexpensive gown look like a million bucks and vice versa," he notes. "Many women often hesitate to wear a strapless gown for fear it'll fall down or they'll have to keep pulling on it. The truth is, if it fits properly and you're rocking the right undergarments, you have nothing to stress about."

Purchase the Correct Bust Size

Though alterations are key, buying a strapless dress that comfortably accommodates your bust is also important. That might mean ordering a size up and having the waist taken in if your breasts don't fit into a smaller gown. After all, you know how it feels to wear something that doesn't properly fit, so be sure to use past experiences when deciding what to wear for one of the biggest days of your life.

Open the Cups

Depending on your bust size, the cut and fit of the dress, as well as the specific designer/manufacturer, it could be a good idea to "open" the cup when ordering your gown, shares Hall. "Typically, bust sizes D and larger should be opened to allow for a more generous cup, which will give the breasts adequate coverage," he explains. Not doing so could result in a bust line that's just too skimpy, and in turn, a potential wardrobe malfunction.

Choose a Strapless Dress With Boning

Keep your girls where they belong and dodge an embarrassing nip slip by investing in a strapless wedding gown with boning (like corset bodices). The structure will help keep everything in place and will mitigate the constant feeling of your ensemble falling down.

Get the Right Undergarments

The more support, the better, right? In the case of strapless dresses, Hall suggests buying a strapless bra to match, preferably one with boning that extends to your waist, or even lower if your gown design permits. "With the right bustier in place and a perfectly fitted gown, you'll be ready to boogie the night away without a worry in sight," he shares.