Squeal! It’s dress shopping time and you’re on the hunt for a stunning strapless gown.
No matter where you are on your dress shopping journey, finding your dream dress can be a daunting task. But if you’ve narrowed your search down to a strapless gown, we have some good news for you – we’ve rounded up 20 gorgeous strapless dresses for your viewing pleasure.
Of course, going sans straps is just one element of the dress, so to make things easier, we’ve divided our list into the most common silhouette types, to make the job of narrowing your search a whole lot easier, whether you’re drawn to A-line, set on a sheath, fancy a fit and flare or feeling bowled over by ballgowns.
But first things first, why choose a strapless dress?
Why choose a strapless wedding dress?
There’s something very romantic about baring your shoulders and décolletage, not to mention, it’s a little bit on the sexy side too. They are a great choice for the bigger bust as they show off an ample cleavage, but small chested ladies shouldn’t feel left out, as a strapless dress can actually give the illusion of a bigger bust, especially if you opt for a sweetheart or V neckline. We reckon there’s something altogether girly and feminine about a strapless gown too, especially if your dress features lots of lace and tulle. Just make sure you have yours fitted correctly – you don’t want your dress shimmying off during the dancing.
When a strapless wedding dress might not be the best choice
We reckon you should go for whatever dress you feel your best in. But as a rule of thumb, strapless gowns are best avoided if you feel self conscious about your arms. You don’t have to have lean, toned arms to pull of a strapless gown, but if there’s any chance you’re going to feel uncomfortable showing yours off, then strapless is probably best avoided. If you’re still set on strapless though, a draped straps might be your best bet. (We’ve included some below.)
Likewise, if you tend to suffer from acne along your chest or have acne scarring from your teens in this area, a strapless number will draw attention to it.
Now, without further ado, here are 20 stunning strapless dresses for you to feast your eyes on. To help you along, we’ve made a note of some of our favourites too. Happy browsing!
Strapless A-lines
The A-line shape is universally flattering and going strapless can ensure the look isn’t too matronly or conservative. Don’t be afraid to try on different necklines, whether it’s banded, V or sweetheart.
WJ FAVOURITE: We love everything about this dress. The V neck gives it a modern edge, the empire line adds shape and that billowing tulle makes it a perfect choice for the feminine, girly bride.
Zareen Lynette, Maggie Sottero
Strapless mermaid and fit and flares
A firm favourite for accentuating curves, a strapless fit and flare or mermaid gown can give this style of dress an extra bit of sex appeal. How sexy you want to go is up to you!
WJ FAVOURITE: If you recognise this dress it might be because we featured it on one of our recent covers. We adore the deep V neck, the blush tulle and that beautiful lace detailing.
Strapless sheaths
Figure-skimming and oh-so elegant it can take confidence and a petite frame to pull this one off. Sheaths have become super popular in the past couple of years and strapless sheaths in particular are having a bit of a moment.
WJ FAVOURITE: This beaut Suzanne Neville number is sheer elegance with a touch of femininity thanks to that floral detailing. The draped straps give it a romantic, relaxed feel.
Strapless ballgowns
It’s the ultimate princes dress and a favourite with brides for good reason. A strapless neckline is the perfect way to compliment a full, show-stopping skirt.
WJ FAVOURITE: The perfectly cut sweetheart neckline, the structured bodice, and that giant billowing skirt. We can’t get enough of this Morilee number.
