Between finding the dress, sending out the invitations, organizing the wedding reception, it’s easy to overlook what you’ll wear underneath it all – your bridal lingerie. And if you’re fuller busted or plus size, lingerie shopping can feel especially intimidating. You might worry about fitting into certain styles, feel pressured to wear something that doesn’t reflect your personality or dread the all-familiar disappointment of finding a set you like only to realize it doesn’t come in anything beyond a D cup. 

If that sounds like you - don’t worry.  This guide will help you shop for the right pieces that flatter your natural figure and make you feel your best on your wedding day. 

“From luxurious lace and silk to silhouettes designed for fuller busts and curvier bodies, bridal wear lingerie is about comfort, confidence, and celebrating your personal style, from  ceremony to after-party and beyond.” says Téa York, our founder and large cup lingerie expert. And lingerie shopping for your bridal trousseau can be just as fun as shopping for the wedding gown itself. So let’s get started.

Why Bridal Lingerie Is Important

Your bridal wear lingerie plays a big role in how your wedding day outfit looks and feels. It sets the tone for how you move through your big day. You want to be supported, uplifted, and comfortable. And after the vows are exchanged and the reception is over? Your bridal intimates transform into a secret celebration just for you and your partner.

You May Need More Than One Wedding Lingerie Set

Just like some brides opt for two different dresses, one for the ceremony and one for the reception, you can (and most often should!) plan for more than one bridal lingerie set. Let us explain.

The lingerie you wear under your gown is all about functionality: it needs to enhance your figure and make the dress look polished, while providing comfort and support without restricting movement. Your wedding night lingerie outfit, on other hand, is a statement piece, and an opportunity to express your sensuality and style with confidence.

Lingerie Outfit Under A Wedding Dress

Consider your wedding gown: is it structured with built-in support and made of heavier fabrics and layers that can hide bumps? Or is it light and flowy as it gently drapes over your body? 

Structured gowns with boning or built-in support like the popular mermaid or princess gowns might not require a bra or a bridal bustier corset at all. Wearing one underneath would only make the outfit feel heavy, not to mention more hot in a warm climate. Leave the bra out and let the seamstress make the adjustments on the dress itself to fit your body shape and give your cleavage a flattering boost. Opt for smooth, seamless or folded-over panties or thongs, or breathable delicate lace panties that won’t show under the dress.

Flowy or silk dresses, on other hand, require undergarments that are not visible on the outside. Instead of lacey lingerie with lots of details that can look bumpy under the dress, opt for seamless construction like shapewear, molded bra or seamless panties that match your skintone. If you would still like to wear something more intricate, try this embroidered thong with folded-over back construction that won’t show pantylines.

Low back or plunging neckline gowns call for strapless bras, bustiers, or stick-on solutions that still offer support.

Lingerie as a wedding outfit, while not conventional, is a beautiful way to show off your romantic side. A lace bustier top paired with a tailored jacket and pants a-la Bianca Jagger can be incredibly striking. 

Once you know what your dress needs, you can choose your bridal undergarments accordingly.

 

Lace bustier top paired with a tailored suit can make for an incredibly feminine and polished wedding day look. (Image credit: @sawyershea)

 

 

What to Wear on Your Wedding Night

Your wedding night lingerie is your moment to wear something playful, sensual, and special. And while white wedding night lingerie might be the traditional look in Western cultures, it doesn’t need to be white at all! Blush lingerie can look beautiful, and so can pastel colors like champagne, mauve, or even rich jewel tones if that feels more you. 

No matter what color speaks to you, a bridal lingerie set could include:

A bridal bustier corset set for that whimsical, Marie-Antoinette feel

A bridal bra and panty set for a classical lingerie look

A sheer lace teddy paired with a bridal garter belt for something more playful 

High-waisted briefs with suspenders and thigh-highs for a pin-up look (you might even want to skip a bra and wear some pasties instead, a la Dita Von Teese)

 

Dare to wear something more bold? Try a string thong or ouvert (crotchless) panties. 

What about nightwear for the wedding night? A silk bridal nightgown is a perfect option if you prefer something flowy and soft, but a strappy lace romper, or a satin bodysuit or camisole paired with high-waisted silk briefs make for a dreamy end to the night. 

 

When to Start Shopping for Bridal Lingerie

Start early, especially if you wear a bra size outside the standard A-D range. “We recommend two months before your wedding day, ideally. Some garments take a long time to ship and if you’re in store for a unique piece like this made-to-order bustier set, it can take up to 6 weeks for delivery.” says York. 

Bespoke lingerie might require up to three months. By planning ahead, you will avoid adding more stress during what is already an intense period of time.

Where to Shop for Wedding Lingerie

You can shop online from independent, size-inclusive brands—just be sure they offer a reliable fit and size guide, along with a flexible return policy in case the sizing doesn’t work out.

If you prefer to shop in person, steer clear of big box stores. They often lack styles designed to flatter busty figures, which can lead to an all-familiar frustration and disappointment. Instead, seek out independent lingerie boutiques in your city. These small, often women-owned shops, are more likely to carry a curated selection of brands and extended sizes—and they’re committed to providing a beautiful, supportive shopping experience. Here is a list of our favorite USA boutiques to shop in person.

Remember: Fit Comes First

The right fit can make or break your day. “The best wedding lingerie should flatter your natural shape, feel secure, and stay comfortable all day – and night” says York.

First, calculate your bra size and to help you know where to start. We put together this comprehensive bra fitting guide to help find a perfect fit. Don’t forget to give your lingerie a movement test: 

• Bend forward. Do your breasts stay in place?

• Raise your arms. Does the band stay put?

• Move around. Do the straps dig or slide?

These little checks can help you avoid wardrobe malfunctions or discomfort on the big day.

Don’t Be Afraid to Try New Styles

Maybe you’ve always worn T-shirt bras and never tried a bridal bustier corset or a 3-piece lingerie set. Your wedding is the perfect time to explore something you haven’t tried before. You might be surprised by how beautiful you feel in something new.

This is your moment to spoil yourself with bridal intimates that feel decadent and designed just for you. You deserve lingerie that celebrates your body and your journey.

Final Thoughts: Bridal Lingerie for Every Bride

Bridal lingerie isn’t just about the look. it’s about how it makes you feel. It’s the silk brushing against your skin as you get ready, the delicate strap you slip off before the night ends, the quiet confidence it gives you, and that je ne sais quoi – an irresistible, unspoken allure that’s uniquely yours.

This is your chance to curate pieces that honor who you are. And remember: the most beautiful bride is the one who feels powerful, comfortable, and completely herself.