Although strapless bridal gowns remain popular, there is a growing trend towards wedding dresses with straps or detailed necklines. There are a number of advantages to strappy bridal gowns including:

• Straps can balance full skirts • Straps allow the rest of the dress to be less structured • Straps can disguise a bra for larger busted women • Straps can be a key design feature on your Wedding dress

Straps can balance a full skirt

Wedding dresses with full skirts are a key look this season, but many brides find that strapless versions leave them looking a little bare around the chest and neck, especially after the ceremony if they remove their veil. Straps can balance the overall look of your Wedding dress, and wide straps are particularly effective.

Strappy dresses can be slinky and sexy

Many brides think that dresses with straps are more conservative than strapless designs. In reality strapless dresses require a great deal of built in support and structure to prevent the gown from slipping down at an inappropriate moment. This can limit the flow and design of the dress.

Choosing a dress with straps may allow it to be less structured, with more movement. You can experiment with a deeper cut cleavage or a lower back than you would be able to with a strapless gown. Many brides find that strappy dresses allow them to relax their upper body and shoulders more as they aren’t worried about the gown slipping, leading to a better posture.

Thin delicate straps can add a pretty feminine touch to your bridal gown, especially if you are able to wear a dress without a bra. If you have spent time working on your tan before the wedding, bronzed and toned backs and shoulders will look their best next to white spaghetti straps.

Straps and necklines are a key design feature

Looking at the latest catwalk styles high, detailed necklines are going to be a key wedding trend for 2009. Sheer fabrics are used above the bodice to create high necks, while ruffles, corsages, and beading in the neck area are proving popular. A detailed neckline, or decorative straps, can add interest to your dress and complete your overall look, especially from back which is the view your guests will have during most of the ceremony.

Removable straps can allow you to have two looks

Some designers are creating dresses with removable straps or top sections that can be taken off between the ceremony and reception to create two distinct looks. Wide, off the shoulder straps, or a high neckline can create a more modest or demure look for your ceremony, especially if you are having a church wedding. Removing these sections, combined with a change of hair or jewellery before your reception, can dramatically change your appearance.