Your guide to bridal lingerie

The right bridal lingerie makes a huge difference to how your dress fits and how comfortable you feel throughout the day. Think of this as your personal guide to what works, what to consider and what to skip.

Choosing bridal lingerie

Your bridal lingerie should suit three things: your body, your dress and your personal style. Some brides love the tradition of a full matching set. Others prefer simple, comfortable basics. There is no rule that says you have to wear bridal lingerie. It is all about what supports you and works under your gown.

How to get the right fit

A great fit is everything. Try on your lingerie with your gown well before the wedding so you can see exactly how the fabric sits, moves and supports you. If you are wearing shapewear, make sure it does not roll, pinch or create new seams under the dress. For bras, check that the cups lie flat and that the band feels firm without digging in.

If you are in doubt, book a professional fitting. Many lingerie boutiques offer wedding specific appointments and can help you match pieces to your dress shape. Your alterations appointment is also the perfect time to confirm that your underwear works with the final fit of your gown.

Bridal bras

Wear a particular style of bra every day without thinking twice? Your wedding dress might change what you need. Many modern gowns have structured bodices or built-in cups, which means you may not need a bra at all.

If your gown has a high neckline or fitted long sleeves, you might want a padded bra for shape. If it is backless or low-backed, you may need to explore stick-on cups or an adhesive bra. These are great for coverage but offer limited support. Other options include plunge bras, low back bras and convertible bras with straps you can adjust to suit the cut of your dress.

Underwear and stockings

Choosing the right underwear is just as important. Look for styles that are invisible under your dress. Seamless briefs or a thong help avoid visible lines. Make sure the fabric will not bunch or shift when you walk.

For legwear, you can choose full pantyhose or go for thigh-high stockings with a garter belt. This gives you a bit more comfort and feels a little more elevated for later. A lace thong or Brazilian with a matching bra or corset, thigh-high stockings, and a garter belt makes a gorgeous wedding night set if you want one.

Shapewear

Shapewear can smooth and contour where you want it to. Some brides prefer full body pieces, while others only target one area such as the waist or stomach. Corsets and bustiers cinch the waist and support the bust, which is ideal for dresses with a low neckline or gowns with very defined seams.

Chemises, teddies, and babydolls

If you are planning something for the wedding night or honeymoon, these three pieces are the classics. Babydolls are fitted at the bust and float softly over the body, which is flattering and feminine. Chemises are more fitted and look like a mini dress in satin or lace. Teddies cover the torso and crotch in one piece and range from sheer to structured. They are a fun option if you want something sexy and confident for the honeymoon.

Sleepwear

Not every bride wants lingerie. Pretty sleepwear is also a lovely choice. Silk nightgowns, satin pyjamas or cosy loungewear all work depending on your destination and vibe. You can feel comfortable, warm and still a little romantic.

Confidence matters most

At the end of the day, the best bridal lingerie is whatever makes you feel confident. You might choose something lacy and dramatic or something soft and simple. Both are perfectly valid. What matters is that you feel supported, comfortable and completely yourself. When you feel good underneath it all, it shows in the way you carry yourself, walk down the aisle and enjoy the entire celebration. Feeling comfortable in your own skin is the real secret to looking incredible.