Our expert guide to statement backs

When you’re choosing your perfect dress, often the main focus is on the front. The neckline, the embellishment on the bodice, how the straps sit and more. But spare a moment for what’s behind you, too. Statement backs are the perfect way to include surprise detailing, add a touch of discreet sex appeal and highlight a stunning part of your figure. So, here’s our guide to the different styles and how to choose the right one for you…

Why choose a statement back?

Not everyone loves the idea of drawing attention to their shoulders, tops of their arms or their cleavage. However, brides are often happy to show off a beautiful back and it’s the perfect way to reveal a little skin if you aren’t comfortable with a plunging neckline or a sheer bodice. Statement backs can add a dash of sexiness while your overall look still has plenty of coverage. 

Also, they’re the perfect way to add even more wow-factor to a breathtaking look. Your guests will see the stunning front first. Then, as you walk past, they’ll get a beautiful surprise when they discover even more striking detailing to enjoy.

So, which style to go for?

Some statement backs are about maximum wow-factor while other styles offer more support and coverage, as well as looking beautiful. Here’s how to find the right one for you…

Illusion statement backs

An illusion back features pretty lace set onto sheer tulle, so the design ‘pops’ out beautifully against the skin. The look can cover the whole back and arms or simply decorated the straps or edges of a low back dress.

This design by Heidi Hudson gets the balance just right, with stunning illusion detailing that sits low enough to be attractive but high enough to be very easy to wear. The same pattern covers the dress from top to bottom, complemented by lace-covered spaghetti straps, ideal for a boho celebration at home or away.

Keyhole statement backs

A keyhole back has a striking cut-out section in the middle or lower back, framed by illusion lace. It’s a beautiful way to show a little skin, while still having a supportive bodice and plenty of coverage. Heidi Hudson gives the style in a gentle bohemian feel, surrounded by soft eyelash lace. It’s a great way to get the look in a relaxed, understated way.

As you can see, there are so many varieties of keyhole backs. Caspians heart-shaped, keyhole back, surrounded by exquisite lace, is all about the romance and drama, whilst Jodies low and small keyhole back is a subtle but effective feature.

Lace-up statement backs

Lacing is a very practical way to finish the back of a dress, as it pulls the bodice in to suit your unique shape. It also adds a magical fairytale or classic feel, depending on the design. These looks are a dream for princess brides, with their combination of blush colours, soft lace and sweetheart necklines with a touch of glitter. The silky lacing completes the effect perfectly. 

Low statement backs

A low back is a contemporary way to try the statement backs trend. Do it the Miavalenca way with a sexily dipped back, with statement belt detail, along with slim straps and modern botanical embroidery. Or keep it boho with an all over stretch lace sheath, Rue, try the low back Wunderskirt too, for extra comfort and volume.

Button statement backs

Beautiful covered buttons can create all sorts of magical effects. A neat row adds a touch of sophistication, while also leading the eye to your waistline or all the way down to the hem of a magnificent skirt. A short row provides a lovely focal point here, amidst nature-inspired lace and frothy tulle. Alternatively, on a more pared back design, they become a striking feature, running all the way down the skirt.

Wow-factor statement backs

And, last but not least, we have some designs where the back is the icing on the cake among plenty of equally breathtaking detailing. How about draping your shoulders with sparkling crystals and pearl threads, like this first style? Combined with a sheer bodice and a soft crepe skirt, finished with an on-trend cut-out train, it really is a design to get you noticed.

On the other hand, a statement beaded back can be the stand out feature, on a sleek plain crepe gown. Nurie showcases a modest v-neck with a statement low scooped back with buttons to the hem and rows of beautifully draped pearls.

Make your own statement

If you like the idea of wearing a showstopping back as you walk down the aisle, then you’ve come to the right place. The selection above is just a small number of our statement backs, so drop in today and try some on. Plus, our bridal experts are ready and waiting to find the right one for you, whether that’s understated and classic or full-on wow factor!

Click here to check out all our wedding dresses with statement backs, then try on your favourites at your nearest wed2b store. Here’s what to expect when you visit, too. Lastly, for more inspiration, check out our Instagram, Facebook or TikTok accounts.