Bras, bustiers, corsets. Garters, pantyhose, Spanx. Something lace? Something blue? Nothing at all?
Okay. I’m nowhere near an expert on this topic. I can only tell you what I’ve learned over the years, and, more importantly, what I’ve learned over the past six months as a bride-to-be. So, listen up. I have two HUGE secrets to share.
One. If you think you need a bra/corset/bustier with your dress, first ask your bridal associate about the possibility of built-in cups. BUILT-IN CUPS. When you have built-in cups, you don’t have to worry about tugging on a strapless bra all night. Trust me, they are the most comfortable option out there.
Two. If your bridal associate vetoes built-in cups, you MUST go to Trousseau in Vienna, Virginia. For all of you inside-the-beltway types, Vienna really isn’t that far away. Last night, I drove from Georgetown to Trousseau in 40 minutes — during 5pm rush-hour traffic and avoiding HOV Rt 66.
Here’s the thing. I never realized there are so many options in bridal undergarments. Lynette (my bridal associate at Hitched) told me to get a “long-lined, seamless, low-back corset.” Um, okay. She pointed me in the direction of Vienna, Virginia and I was on my way. I walked into Trousseau with pictures of my dress in hand, was greeted by Allison (a super-sweet girl who made me feel infinitely comfortable), and — 20 minutes later — I walked out with exactly what Lynette suggested. It was a fabulous experience.
AND, after I try on this new little under-number with my dress, Trousseau will alter it for me (complimentary alterations!). They are going to lower the back of the corset so it perfectly fits with my dress. Talk about personalized service. I never knew a bra could be altered!
So, for all of you searching for a bridal undergarment (or dreading the experience of buying one, like I was), first look into built-in cups, and then, if you must, head over to Trousseau. It’s worth the trip.
Photos: Martha Stewart Weddings
(*Second row, right picture — a long-lined, seamless, low-back corset.)
