Necessary Undergarments?

FutureMrsBuechler

Every time I try on a dress, the bridal shop provides me with a slip and a corset-like device. I'm planning on wearing a slip, as the bridal consultant explained that it prevents the dress from "riding up" and can make it more comfortable. However, I find the corset thing unnecessary... I am a very small person (00 and 5'3"), and I'm proud of my figure. I feel like the corset adds inches to my waist, because it's made of a foam material, and it's not like the dress is unstructured. I have no bulges, not a huge bust, and no other reason that I can think of to wear one. Is there some unknown reason that this garment is worn that I'm missing, or is it only to hide flaws and add bust support? If so, I'll probably just get a slip and no corset thing...

doeydo

As far as I know, there is no need for a corset or other shape-wear, other than to hide lumps and bumps and make your figure more curvy.  All you "need" under a dress is underwear and a bra, and some brides have cups sewn into their dress and go bra-less. 

FutureMrsBuechler

I do believe that my dress has cups in it. So, the corset (or long bra?) isn't going to really have a purpose, then, would it?

doeydo

Not unless you feel like you need more support or something.

Gizmo813

@FutureMrsBuechler, I hope you don't mind my piggy-backing on your thread ... I have a similar question. 

My dress has a corset back. I have a pretty straight figure, without much waist definition, and I am wondering if anything other than a strapless bra is necessary. When I tried the dress on, the salon gave me a strapless bra with a bustier attached, but I am concerned that an extra layer under my dress would actually make me look wider. (If I wear shapewear, I wear a thinner fabric w/o boning.)

What type of shapewear is recommended for my kind of dress?

vmj23

I have a strapless dress with corset back and had cups sewn in.  I don't plan on wearing any other shape ware or bra.  My dress has plenty of support with just the cups.    If you don't want to wear any shapewear, there is no need. 

PrincessOfHavoc

I'm wearing a strapless bra (modified as no bra is out in strapless in my size that fits) and matching undies. I do have corsets but mine are all over bust and higher in back than my dress and/or very dark color that shows through. Given as I don't wear my pale one now, I'm not buying another one.

My upper legs and butt are my heavy areas, but as I have a petticoat of fluff to wear, there's no cling risk.

Now, if I change, my black and silver corset will be on display.

mollykmac

Helpful thread... I really don't feel like I know how supportive my dress is based on trying on the sample -- and I need to decide on undergarments before first fitting. I think I want a long bra but maybe that's not necessary. 

I'm going to try some on regardless - anyone have any favorite brands or sources for them? (esp ones that work well with sweetheart necklines and somewhat low backs!)