Straps do two jobs on a wedding dress. They change the look of the neckline, and they can make a gown feel more secure. Sometimes the straps you have just need adjusting. Sometimes a strapless gown needs straps it never had.
Adjusting the straps you have
We usually shorten straps at the shoulder seam. Taking them up there keeps the balance of the neckline and the back, so neither is pulled out of shape.
Straps are often tapered slightly: a little wider where they join the neckline and the back, narrowing toward the tip of your shoulder. That small taper gives a cleaner, more flattering line.
At your fitting, we look at where your straps attach and how they are attached to the dress, if at all. Some straps are cut as one piece with the bodice rather than sewn on, and that changes how we approach the adjustment. Strap and shoulder adjustments are part of standard bridal alterations.
Adding straps to a strapless gown
- Thin straps in satin or crepe: minimal and delicate, chosen for the look more than for support.
- Wider straps for more support and a cleaner, modern line.
- Lace straps built from motifs that match the gown. See adding lace appliqués.
- Illusion straps in fine tulle that nearly disappears on the skin. They are for the look: tulle gives very little support.
- Off-the-shoulder straps or sleeves, which change the whole look. Our strapless to off-the-shoulder post shows how.
Straps should match the gown, so the best fabric is your own: spare fabric from the hem or train, or a matching fabric you bring. Adding straps is quoted at your fitting.
Permanent or detachable
Permanent straps are sewn into the bodice seams. Detachable straps attach to the inside of the bodice with hidden fastenings, so you can wear them for the ceremony and take them off later. Because the fastenings carry the strain, detachable straps hold less than sewn-in ones. Our detachable off-the-shoulder sleeves work the same way.
Straps are not a substitute for fit
A strapless bodice that slips will still slip with straps added; the straps just pull on your shoulders all night. We fit the bodice first, then add straps for the look or a little extra support. If slipping is the problem, start with how we make a strapless dress stay put.
We place straps on you at the fitting, wearing your wedding bra or shapewear, and angle them to follow your shoulder so they sit flat when you move.