This week I LOVE…back detail!

It’s no secret that you’re going to be centre of attention on your wedding day (and so you should be!) however it’s inevitable that you’re going to have your back to people at times – the ceremony, the first dance and generally mingling amongst your guests, it’s impossible not to – therefore you shouldn’t neglect your back when choosing your dream dress!

Although back detail isn’t exactly a new trend, (I first noticed backs really becoming a bridal gown feature in late 2012) it’s a trend that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. So here’s my top 10 ways to turn your back to your guests…

1) Go Sheer

Sheer backs are at the top of the bridal fashion list at the moment, particularly when teamed with lace appliqués or buttons. This dress by Augusta Jones shows just how stunning sheer can be.

2) Dare To Bare

Feeling brave? For the less traditional brides a back feature is a great way to flash the flesh. This gorgeous gown from Jenny Packham demonstrates how, when you get it right, you can still look beautifully elegant even with a bit more on show.

3) Button Up

Buttons are a simple way to add some detail to the back of your dress; the great thing about these is that more often than not they’ll be faux buttons over a zip. This means you get the same look without the fiddley hassle. You’ll be able to find button detail from a lot of designers like this one from Naomi Neoh.

4) Add Some Jewellery

Brides are often faced with the dilemma of what jewellery to wear on the big day – earrings or necklace? Maybe both? Or perhaps something for your hair instead? Wearing a necklace on your back (or a ‘backdrop’) isn’t something that most people even consider, this picture shows why I think more brides should add a backdrop to their list of options.

5) Key Hole

If you want to make your back more of a feature but don’t want to stray too far from your traditional roots then a keyhole is a great option. This design works best with lace and can be found from several designers such as Caroline Castigliano and Sassi Holford.

6) Floaty and Fabulous

Adding some floaty fabric is a fantastic way to add some detail to your dress without exposing any extra flesh, this dress by Jesus Peiro shows just how to get it right.

7) Take The Plunge

Understandably brides are often conscious of how high/low their neckline should be – after all no one wants their boobs falling out half way down the aisle! Fortunately, the same rules and concerns don’t apply when it comes to the back of your dress. Berta Bridal are known for their daringly low back designs.

8) A sneak peak

If your dress has high neckline at the back it doesn’t mean it can’t be a feature. A slit on a high neck gown is a the perfect way to show a hint of skin. Jenny Packham’s blouson style gowns lend themselves to this kind of detail.

9) Choose a ‘V’

A ‘V’ back is a great alternative if you want to go low – but not too low. The ideal thing about a ‘V’ is it can work with a number of styles such as lace or sheer fabric.

10) Finish With A Bow

Put the finishing touches on your gown by adding a bow to the back just like Berta.