Low back wedding dresses are a huge trend at the moment, and for good reason. A sexy open back is a perfect way to show a little skin without overdoing it. And, while the arms and décolletage can be tricky areas for some, most brides are very happy to reveal an attractive back and beautiful shoulder blades!

What are low back wedding dresses?

There are a number of different styles when it comes to low back wedding dresses, each offering totally different amounts of coverage. So there really is a style to suit everyone!

  • Open: Also described as 'bare' back or 'plunge' back, this is where the back of the dress is cut away so most of the back is exposed. Totally on trend, this is a look for body confident brides with a keen eye for the latest catwalk looks.
  • Illusion: Also very popular and slightly easier to wear than a totally open back, an illusion back dress features an open back covered with a fine delicate net. This is usually embellished with lace appliqués or beading, giving the illusion that these details are set onto the skin.
  • Keyhole: Popularised by Pippa Middleton, when she wore this style on her big day, this design has an oval cut out at the back of the dress. It’s a very flatting look for most figures as it provides plenty of support and coverage.
  • V shape: Similar to a scoop back, these low back wedding dresses are cut into a V-shape at the back. The end of the V often sits above the bra strap line and can usually be worn with a standard strappy bra. Lower cut V-shape backs are best worn with a strapless bra.

Our style experts have found three of our favourite low back wedding dresses in different styles to help you decide how low to go…

The low down

The essential guide to low back wedding dresses - Tamara Tamara, available in sizes 8 to 16

Our lavish Tamara design features a V-back, decorated with opulent floral beading. It’s perfect for brides who want to go low without committing to a totally open back.

High and mighty

The essential guide to low back wedding dresses - Tamara Tamara, available in sizes 8 to 16

At the front, the high illusion boat neck gives plenty of coverage to balance out the plunging back. The illusion side panels are super flattering too!

A seductive sheath

The essential guide to low back wedding dresses - Tamara Tamara, available in sizes 8 to 16

The soft crepe skirt is lightweight and flowing, so no need for an underskirt here. This sheath silhouette is ideal for lean and petite frames and also for hourglasses who want to show off their curves. The lightness of the fabric makes it a great choice for destination or beach weddings too.

Add some sparkle

The essential guide to low back wedding dresses - Tamara Tamara, available in sizes 8 to 16

For extra glamour, accessorise this style with our pretty Solstice belt and delicate Autumn headband. Try our Miley veil too, which has delicate floral beading to complement the beading on the dress. For more sexy sheaths you could also take a look at our Wyatt, Sawyer and Elsbeth designs.

Love at first sight

The essential guide to low back wedding dresses - Laurent Laurent, available in sizes 6 to 16

There are so many elements to love about this Platinum Edition sheath dress… There’s the scalloped edged neckline, the bold lace, the sparkling crystals and, of course, the shimmering sequins. Not to mention the striking keyhole back with its row of elegant covered buttons!

Total opulence

The essential guide to low back wedding dresses - Laurent Laurent, available in sizes 6 to 16

The overall feel is one of statement luxury, created by the hundreds of lace appliqués applied all over the tulle bodice and around the hem. The design is then finished with sparkling beads and glittering crystals.

Two looks in one

The essential guide to low back wedding dresses - Laurent Laurent, available in sizes 6 to 16

Wear this seductive style with our Regency tiara and sumptuous Bea veil. To create two different looks, it’s also the perfect match for our Blythe overskirt. Wear it for your walk down the aisle before removing later to reveal your slinky evening outfit.

A versatile look

The essential guide to low back wedding dresses - Laurent Laurent, available in sizes 6 to 16

If you’re not certain about an open back then this illusion keyhole design gives you the best of both worlds. You get the attractive open keyhole effect but with plenty of coverage and support!

Oh so sweet

The essential guide to low back wedding dresses - Briony Briony, Blush or Ivory, available in sizes 8 to 18

Our Briony dress in blush is a dream example of an illusion back. It gives the feel of a plunging open back while offering plenty of coverage.

Softly shaded

The essential guide to low back wedding dresses - Briony Briony, Blush or Ivory, available in sizes 8 to 18

This short style gets its flattering blush colour from the rich lining under layers of tulle. The bodice is adorned with metallic trimmed lace and finished with fabulous sparkling sequins and beads.

Pretty as a picture

The essential guide to low back wedding dresses - Briony Briony, Blush or Ivory, available in sizes 8 to 18

The beautiful appliqués across the shoulders are just delightful and we love how they flow prettily on to the bouncy, super soft tulle skirt. Wear this with our 125 underskirt to add even more volume.

Create a look

The essential guide to low back wedding dresses - Briony Briony, Blush or Ivory, available in sizes 8 to 18

Style this fun and flirty look with our glittering Royale tiara and stylish Zahara belt. For the perfect finishing touch add a fluffy Celine bolero for instant evening glamour.

Choices, choices

The essential guide to low back wedding dresses - Briony Briony, Blush or Ivory, available in sizes 8 to 18

And, guess what? If blush isn’t your colour, it also comes in ivory too! Plus, if you love a tea-length style, we know you’re going to fall head over heel for our Tamsin and Eva designs as well.

Click here to find more low back wedding dresses. Try on your favourites at your nearest WED2B store or for more inspiration head over to Instagram, Facebook or Twitter