JOIN USWith backless dresses and gowns back in vogue now, many are making a bold style statement these days.
Bareback, sheer back and low-back — the options being explored by fashionistas are numerous.
Backless dresses have a flattering fit, making them a popular choice among the younger lot. “This trend, which was commonly seen in movies in the 70s and 80s, is now being flaunted with stoles and other add-ons in style,” says Pavi Poovappa, a model. She adds that backless dresses are a classy comeback. “They make the wearer look sensual,” says Pavi.
Actor Mansa Manohar loves wearing bright dresses and gowns in backless cuts as they make one look trendy. “Showing too much cleavage is still considered a taboo, but backless dresses are accepted now,” she says. To carry off these dresses, one has to be comfortable in their own skin. “For people who are pear-shaped, these dresses work
really well. Colours from reds to indigos to all bright block colours look great for the season,” she details.
These dresses are a subtle yet fashionable way to deal with the summer heat too. Harshitha Karumbaiah, a model, says that it’s a hot trend this season. “While some like to go bare with this cut, others make a statement with interesting tattoos. Neckpieces are avoided when wearing backless dresses and it’s matched with chandelier earrings or intricate brooches,” she says.
Starting with the SS 17 fashion weeks, celebrities have been sporting backless dresses for most red carpet events. “I personally prefer the backless dress compared to a cleavage-revealing neckline as it is more versatile. Backless dresses can also be seen in slashed, strapped or cut-out versions,” says
The trend came out in the 1930s as a way to show off skin tan in the West. “I love the outfits that Bella Hadid and Blake Lively wore for the Met Gala this year. A low scoop back and a diagonal chest cut-out are the two trending styles this season,” she adds.
Stylist and fashion designer Shiny Alexander feels that these dresses suit people who are well-structured. “These dresses are more about making a statement than just being trendy,” she adds.
If it is a gown, the cut is deeper and upto the backbone, but if it’s a short dress, the cut stops at the waistline. “For people who are conservative yet want to flaunt a bit, the sheer back works best with embellishments and detailing on the back. The bareback also includes halter neck tops or outfits. For daywear, one could opt for a floral dress and for the evening, one could go for cocktail dresses in jewel tones like ruby red, emerald green and navy blue,” she details.