Wedding Lingerie For A Big Bust?

by Aundrea
(Leigh, Lancashire)

I am getting married in June 2009 and want some lovely lingerie to go under my wedding dress. I am having problems getting anything in a 34HH cup. The majority of wedding dresses are either strapless, have shoestring/spaghetti style straps or are halter neck and I cannot find anywhere that sells the sort of bra I'd need to wear under those styles of dresses in my size. I want to look elegant and beautiful on my wedding day, not like a busty wench. Can anyone advise me of any company that I can buy from; I can't afford custom made underwear.

Answer:

Being a little busty myself, my favourite store for bras is Bravissimo. You can either shop online or in one of their stores around the country. They specialise in larger bras and have a fantastic range. I had a quick look for 34HH and they’ve got quite a few in their range, but unfortunately no multiways or strapless models. Rigby and Peller are also very good and they do custom made pieces. Although you said you didn't want to get something custom made due to cost, you may want to consider it as it will give you much needed support.

It seems the fashion these days is for strapless wedding dresses and they do look gorgeous. If you’re keen on having a strapless dress, have you tried one on? Many of them come with boning that will support you without a bra, so it’s worth trying. (Although be sure to find ones that can support the weight of your boobs all day).

With many dresses, you can mix and match designs from the same designer, so if you want a supportive bodice and a particular skirt, then you can usually get this done. The designer days when the designer is in the store is the best time to look at these options as you’ll get their expert advice about their designs.

Corsets are also a great way to get support and not all of them will make you look like a busty wench! Some offer more modesty, so it might be worth trying some on. There are several good corsetieres listed in the back of bridal magazines and although it will probably be custom made to you, it will be no more expensive than buying the bodice of a dress. Plus, you won’t need a bra! If you choose one that can be worn on its own, you can then get a skirt made to match or you might be able to find one in the bridal boutiques.

If all else fails you can go for a dress with straps. Berketex have several lovely designs in their range that look very flattering (ok, most dresses look flattering on a skinny model!) and I’m sure if you extended your search you’ll find more.

I would probably recommend getting your dress in a bridal boutique or by a professional corsetiere as they’ll be able to alter it to fit you exactly. You sound as though you’re slim, but very busty, in which case it’s important to get a really good fit. You might want to put aside some extra cash to ensure your wedding dress looks just right with high quality alterations.

Do let me know how you get on.