Sometimes, the thought of putting on a real bra is simply too much. Yet the thought of freeing the nipple entirely? Frightening. The best bralettes exist in the in-between. They offer the gentle support of your favorite t-shirt bra paired with the comfort and softness that comes with going braless. And if you’re wondering exactly what a bralette is? It’s a wireless bra typically made with soft fabrics like cotton, modal, spandex, or lace that’s meant to move with you. Bralettes provide lower support than traditional bras. High-quality bralettes feel like a second skin (yes, even the lacy ones), boost your confidence, and nix the wire that so many people despise.
And yet, finding a bralette that checks off all of your boxes can quickly feel futile. That’s where we come in. We did the work and searched high and low, filtering through bestseller lists, reviews, fabrications, silhouettes, and more to find the best bralettes of every kind for every body. We looked to intimates brands that have a wide range of size options and colors available, including buzzy brands like Lizzo’s new Yitty, Savage X Fenty, Parade, and SKIMS, plus industry heavyweights like Wacoal, Calvin Klein, Cosabella, and Free People. We ended up with this list of 28 comfy wire-free bras that are, honestly, beautiful enough to wear without a top. Go ahead, we dare you!
Best lace bralettes
Oh, hello lace! While known for being the sexy fabrication when it comes to intimates, lace bralettes can be comfortable too (few know this). The lace bralettes we chose have supportive, adjustable shoulder straps that make up for a slimmer band below the bust. We also looked for silhouettes with fuller cups to provide more coverage, plus high-quality lace detailing. If you want to conceal your nipples, opt for a padded bralette over an unlined version, or one with removable pads if you want both options.
Best tank top bralettes
Go ahead, wear your bralette as a crop top. It’s too hot outside not to! If you’re not comfortable wearing lacey options on their own, try out the bra-as-top trend with tank top bralettes or longline bralettes. These options are made with oh-so-soft fabrics (often a cotton blend with spandex) and give more coverage than some other types of bralettes. If you want a longer cami bralette, there are plenty with built-in shelf bras in case you need a little more of a boost support-wise.
Best triangle bralettes
Triangle bralettes are ideal for folks with smaller bust sizes or anyone who wants a lower-support option. You can find unlined bralettes in this style, or others with soft cups or padding. Two things to look for when shopping for triangle bralettes: adjustable shoulder straps (since most are of the spaghetti variety) and cups that are wide enough to keep you from spilling out the sides.
Best bralettes for big busts
Contrary to popular belief, people with larger cup sizes can free themselves from the shackles of underwire without sacrificing support. Not only do these four options come highly rated by the big boob community, but they have extended sizing that makes them inclusive for most—if not all—bodies. If you’ve got a big bust, bralettes should have substantial straps (adjustable ones are a plus, too!) and a wide band to support your ribcage without being obtrusive. You should have enough coverage to feel like you’re not spilling out—even with V-neck bralettes—plus enough fabric that you don’t feel like you’re being compressed. If you want nipple coverage, look for a bralette with removable pads, soft cups, or a thicker lining.
Best bralettes for sleeping
If you prefer sleeping in underwear versus pajamas, loungewear, or t-shirts, a sleeping bralette is a good option because there’s no obtrusive underwire. These two options are made with ultra-soft, buttery fabrics that give a barely-there feel. The minimalist design means you can sleep soundly without uncomfortable digging or worrying about clasps. These also have thick straps that won’t put pressure on your shoulders, plus they offer enough coverage that you won’t wake up with a boob hanging out (we know, you’ve been there).
Best longline bralettes
Another option for those of you in the camp of bras as tops, longline bralettes are typically more decorative and intricate in their shape than tank top bralettes. Lace options like these two from Free People create an easy outfit with a pair of shorts or jeans, and basic silhouettes and hues are excellent foundations for warm weather looks. Longline bras typically have a V or scoop neckline and offer a few extra inches of coverage below the bust. There are stretchy pullover options, date night-ready strappy ones, and many more to cradle your boobs in style.
Best nursing bralettes
When we found the best nursing sports bras, we looked to our guidelines that apply here, too. Look for a stretchy, comfortable option that will grow with you during and post-pregnancy. Crossover-style bras are excellent because they allow easy access for pumping or breastfeeding moms, and they’re also comfortable for sleeping. We looked for breathable fabrics and straps that are adjustable for everyday wear, or thick for sleeping and relaxing comfortably.
Best bandeau bralettes
Bandeaus are notoriously difficult to shop for. You want one that’s compressive enough that it’ll stay up (especially under strapless tops or dresses), but not so compressive that you feel constricted. Bandeaus should be wide enough that they cover at least one or two inches above and below your bust. Some have clasp closures, others are pull-on. You might want to look for a bandeau with removable straps, which provide extra security.
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Source: SELF
