Back is the new front

Backs have made a huge comeback, so if yours is shiny and exposable, it is time to venture out in a backless number. Shruti Kothari tells you how and what to sport this season.

In the early twentieth century, Clara Bow wore one that took a deep plunge nearly to the buttocks. More recently, Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon and Aishwarya Rai have flaunted their backs in stunning backless gowns, with the required poise it demands.

Well, backless ensembles have always been on the fashion radar but this time they are definitely making more noise. While designers are constructing godly creations for those who sashay down the red carpet, the fashionstas off the red carpet have also taken a liking to this trend. So make sure you’re not left behind.

Getting the back basics right
It needs to be remembered that a backless dress is not something you simply put on. It demands a special occasion and must be worn only by those who have a clean and curvy back, else it can look disastrous.

Noted fashion designer Nivedita Saboo of Neo couture brand who is known for her backless numbers says, “I’ve always been a great supporter of backs and the detailing involved. But the important point to be kept in mind while going in for an interesting back is the fit of the dress and the amount of attention that you want to attract to the back.” So once you get the basics right, you can decide how far you want to venture.

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Testing the backless waters
If you’re a tad uneasy about diving straight in, a backless garment that shows off a little bit of the back is good enough. Approximately three to four inches of back display is just right. For those who are warmed up, a backless dress that shows off from the nape of your neck to mid back is perfect. And backs that dive deep down are the bait for those ready to go to town. “Whether it is a deep plunging neckline, fantastic embroidery, chains connecting the back or a Victorian corseted back, each style has a subtle and a classy sex appeal to it, provided you carry it off confidently,” says Nivedita. So make sure you do so!

The backless design parade
Halter tops, knee length short dresses, sweeping gowns and sexy cholis, all come in stunning backless versions.

“For those looking for something unusual, creative twists to the back are scoop backs and fabric loosely draped at the back. This shows off a fair bit of your back but not all of it. But a style that is often seen on international catwalks is gowns with plummet down backs. This is for those who dare to bare with ample aplomb,” states designer Kamakshi Dayal.

But if you’re looking for a classic style, dresses with fairly conservative fronts without hinting what is behind are just perfect. You can also opt for long, slim cut dresses with short or long sleeves and a sinking back, if you’re tall and willowy.