It’s more popular than ever to don a crystal tiara or birdcage headpiece in lieu of a traditional veil, so you’ll need a pretty good alibi if the back of your gown isn’t just as gorgeous as the front. Rather than making up excuses for a ho-hum train or yawn-inducing rear neckline, take a cue from New York Bridal Market’s best and brightest and dare to go bareback for a subtly sexy look that makes for a grand entrance and exit.

The Edgy Bride
Lela Rose

Our editors fell in love with this gown at first sight, and it’s no wonder why—Lela Rose’s The Woods dress features a plunging illusion-netted back with the remnants of an intricate Alençon lace design delicately attached. The result is a romantic tattoo-esque look we can’t stop admiring. ($3,995; lelarose.com)

The Minimalist Bride
Nicole Miller

Talk about making an exit: Nicole Miller’s sleek gown is classic, simple and clean in the front but dramatic, glamorous and practically dripping with sex appeal in the back. The halter neckline opens to reveal a draping cowl back that’s perfect for showing off all the hours you’ve spent at the yoga studio without baring too much skin. ($825; nicolemiller.com)

The Glam Bride
Cymbeline Paris

Cymbeline’s Egerie dress wowed us with its element of surprise. You’d hardly expect the ultra-low (and ultra-daring) plunging open back when you see the high-necked halter gown from the front. Paired with layers of ruffled tulle, this showstopper makes for a jaw-dropping arrival and exit. ($4,000; cymbelineusa.com)

The Dramatic Bride
Claire Pettibone

It was hard to pick just one gorgeous gown from the assortment Claire Pettibone paraded down the runway this season, but the worked organza flowers on this dress’s back blew us away. What appears to be a simple shoulder embellishment blooms into a gorgeous explosion of floral detailing, making for a dramatic look that’s daring and darling. ($3,900; clairepettibone.com)

The Sophisticated Bride
Douglas Hannant

Leave it to one of bridal’s boldest designers to ensure your back looks just as good as your front on the big day. Douglas Hannant’s icicle-inspired collection featured this showstopping backless gown, complete with beaded straps that drape across the rib cage to show off a slender, streamlined figure. ($6,930; douglashannant.com)