Written by Tania Braukamper
If you're not big on cleavage (pun intended) you'll be pleased to know that the back is back. Backless dresses are becoming more and more prominent as a trend both on the street and the red carpet. Why the back? It's sexy, suggestive, yet subtle and mysterious.

Clare Danes wore a black dress with a deep back to the premiere of Stardust, while Kate Bosworth recently showed off her tanned back in a bright pink backless number. Jessica Simpson has also been showing off less of her chest and much more of her back lately.
What it requires: a smooth, toned, tanned back.
How to wear it: in low-backed cotton dresses or tees casually during the day (a la Gisele Bunchen, below); and with embellishments, interesting cuts and elegant fabrics at night (like Clare Danes). If going backless, keep the front covered to keep the mystery.

Diane Kruger in Versace Atelier backless dress
Kate Moss at the MET 2009 Costume Institute Gala
Maggie Gyllenhaal's backless playsuit
Lily Allen in Alberta Ferretti S/S 2009 dress
Written: 5th November 2007 at 14.11
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