We all know the back of your gown is just as important as the front. After all, while you, unfortunately, won’t get to see it much it will be on display throughout the ceremony, while you're mingling with guests and also when you’re enjoying your first dance with your brand new husband. Pippa Middleton really set the trend when she revealed her beautiful keyhole back wedding dress on her big day. With its high neck and capped sleeves, her keyhole design was just the right amount of revealing for such a traditional do.

What are keyhole back wedding dresses?

Simply put, keyhole back wedding dresses have a cut out at the back, hence the name ‘keyhole’. It’s a great option for brides who love the idea of a backless dress but want a little more coverage or the support a more structured bodice offers. It’s also a great style for brides who want to highlight a beautiful back but cover their shoulders or arms.

Our expert stylists have put together a guide to their favourite keyhole back wedding dresses to help you find the one for you…

A timeless affair

Alexis is a flattering fishtail design covered with exquisite beaded, corded lace, ending in a traditionally scalloped hem. The unforgettable keyhole back helps to give the dress a beautiful femininity without being too revealing.

Alexis - Vintage lace fishtail with intricate beading Alexis, available in sizes 6 to 20.

Elegant curves

At the front, the wide lace straps and delicate V-neck create a soft vintage look, while the fishtail silhouette will give you beautifully sculpted curves. Wear this with our 190 underskirt to help kick the skirt out even more.

Alexis - Vintage lace fishtail with intricate beading Alexis, available in sizes 6 to 20.

Graceful lace

The delicate pattern of the lace and the pretty covered buttons add to the retro feel, so our lace edged Maisie veil is the perfect match. And for a similar design with shoulder-flattering lace straps, take a look at Callista too. Alternatively, Sophia's illusion back is another way to reveal a little - but not too much!

Alexis - Vintage lace fishtail with intricate beading Alexis, available in sizes 6 to 20.

A contemporary keyhole

Harley is a modern take on keyhole back wedding dresses that will make a real statement as you walk down the aisle. The cut out back is simple but effective and guests' eyes will be drawn down to the breathtaking lace appliqués on the train as you glide past.

Harley - Stunning sheath dress with layers of lace and sparkling beading Harley, available in sizes 6 to 14.

A high fashion fit

The intricate beading combined with the sleek illusion panels, plunging neckline and the figure-hugging silhouette create a look that’s pure catwalk chic. Keep your accessories simple with just a sprinkling of our pretty Bliss hairpins and a glittering Tiffany belt. For a similar contemporary, fitted style take a look at Wyatt. And if you want a little more coverage both our Galilea and Eleni designs feature covered ‘illusion’ keyhole backs.

Harley - Stunning sheath dress with layers of lace and sparkling beading Harley, available in sizes 6 to 14.

Classic style

This chic fishtail is cleverly designed to give you the perfect hourglass figure. The beautiful illusion neckline and keyhole back also combine to give plenty of support and coverage while looking glamorous.

Coco - Flattering fishtail with subtle illusion neckline and keyhole back Coco, available in Ivory or Blush, in sizes 16 to 24.

Soft as a feather

This dress’s super soft tulle is lined with organza for a more luxurious finish and a soft, flattering colour. There’s also clever internal support for a comfortable and secure fit and wow-factor curves! This style looks fabulous worn with our floral Reilly headband with its delicate sparkling leaves. And take a look at our Jenna and Lilli dresses too, which both have beautiful back-revealing designs.

Coco - Flattering fishtail with subtle illusion neckline and keyhole backCoco, available in Ivory or Blush, in sizes 16 to 24.

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