ELYN WONG, 40

We mean it literally when we say Wong has your back. From her rst Stolen collection in 2012, her work has centred around the back – to make it sexy and appealing.

“Naysayers discouraged me from entering such a niche market, but I’m glad I held on,” Wong says of her six-collection-old label, which is now carried at multi-label stores Trixilini, Nana and Bird, and department store Tangs at Tang Plaza. “Working with such a small perimeter allows me to exercise more creativity and come up with more designs.”

Overcoming the many limitations and considerations of creating backless pieces has boosted her condence. “I know where to cut, how far down to go so that it’s sexy without revealing your underwear, and how much to show from the side in order to keep the silhouette slim.”

All her backless creations offer support.

“I have seen sexy backless pieces held up by skinny straps with no other support, so women can’t stand, sit or walk properly. They feel self-conscious instead of sexy. My pieces come with what I call ‘security straps’, either drawn across the shoulders or from the side of the arm, to hold the top or dress together. No matter how much you move, they won’t fall off.”

The V-back is the best.

“The abby bits tend to be at the sides. A plunging V-back covers your sides, shows off the middle of the back, and instantly slims you down. Avoid scoops that are too wide, because even if you have a toned back, you may still look quite broad.”

Complement backless designs with a good bra.

“For more support, pick a bralette. It’s meant to be shown, so get one with back detailing. Otherwise, go for silicone Nippies. They’re more comfortable and have better shape than regular paper nipple tapes.”

“I know where to cut, how far down to go so that it’s sexy without revealing your underwear, and how much to show from the side in order to keep the silhouette slim.” – Elyn Wong

“This tank top (pictured opposite) has three different types of layering. You can only see the play of texture when you put it on. The translucency of the fabric against the skin makes it more obvious.”