While many of us may not want to wear traditional bras, bralettes offer a comfortable and stylish alternative. They can be worn for low-impact activities or as a cute underlayer with a loose-fitting top. The trend of bralettes peeking out from sweaters and tank tops has been popular in recent years, making it clear that these soft bras are here to stay. When it comes to finding the perfect bralette, there are several factors to consider, including style, material, and size.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a premium choice, we’ve got you covered with our top 10 picks. From lace-trimmed designs to cotton camisoles, these bralettes cater to various bust sizes and styles. So, how do you find the perfect bralette? What’s the difference between a bra and a bralette? When should you wear one? And will they make your breasts saggy if you have larger cups? Let us answer some of your burning questions about bralettes.
How to Find the Perfect Bralette
Discovering a bra that perfectly balances comfort and flattery can be a challenging task, particularly for those with curvier figures. To cater to diverse bust sizes and personal styles, we’ve compiled a curated selection of options that range from sleek and sporty to delicate and feminine. Whether you’re looking for understated elegance or dramatic flair, our list has got you covered.
Style
When it comes to bralettes, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Within this category, you’ll find a range of styles that cater to different tastes and needs. Here’s a breakdown of some popular bralette styles:Plunge bralettes boast a deep V-front, which can create a sultry, framing effect for your cleavage. However, the deeper plunge does increase the risk of wardrobe malfunctions when engaging in activities like bending or jumping.
Racerback bralettes take a different approach by connecting the straps between the shoulder blades, distributing the weight of your bust and lifting your chest ever so slightly. Some may feature plunge fronts or full cups for added support and coverage. Full cup bralettes are designed to provide a more modest appearance while offering greater security for your breasts.
By containing your bust within deeper, fuller cups, these bralettes minimize the risk of spilling out and give you a sense of peace. Halter bralettes feature a single loop around the neck, which can create a sexy, lifted silhouette – albeit at the potential cost of discomfort if you have a heavier bust due to the pressure on your neck. Bandeaus are essentially tube tops that wrap around the chest for full coverage. While they may look stylish, they offer minimal support to the bust.
Finally, camisole bralettes represent a happy medium between style and practicality. These thin tank tops feature built-in light support via an elastic band along the underbust, making them perfect for everyday wear.
Material
When considering what makes up your bralette, it’s natural to think about fabric sensitivity and comfort. Some materials can cause irritation or allergic reactions, while others provide a smooth, pleasant sensation against the skin. Let’s take a closer look at some common fabrics used in bralettes.
Nylon, for instance, is a poly-based material that offers an affordable alternative to silk. Its durability makes it a popular choice, often blended with cotton or spandex.
During World War II, nylon became famous for replacing silk in stockings, and it has remained a staple in lingerie ever since.
Cotton is the most widely used natural fiber, renowned for its breathability and moisture-wicking properties. This makes it an excellent choice for clothing that requires close skin contact.
Rayon, or modal, is a semi-synthetic material made from wood pulp and cellulose fibers.
Its lightweight and breathable nature allows it to mimic the feel of more expensive natural fibers like silk. High-quality rayon can be particularly luxurious and soft.
Polyamide is similar to polyester, featuring synthetic plastic-based fibers that provide stretchiness and resistance to wrinkles and tears. While it’s not as breathable as other options, its durability makes it a popular choice.
Spandex, often labeled as elastane, takes the crown for being the ultimate stretch fabric.
Its super-stretchy plastic fibers make it an essential component in clothing like yoga pants or bodycon dresses. It’s usually blended with other materials to provide comfortable stretchiness.
Now that we’ve covered the basics of bralette fabrics, you’re probably eager to see our top recommendations for the best bralettes on the market. Here, you’ll find a diverse selection of options to suit your unique needs and preferences.
Top 10 Best Bralettes 2024
Best Overall Bralette: Smart & Sexy Women’s Signature Lace Deep V Bralette
Smart & Sexy lingerie is renowned for crafting high-quality pieces that cater to a diverse range of body types at an affordable price point. This particular bralette exemplifies this commitment, offering a comfortable and sexy design that suits most individuals. The versatile piece boasts wide straps providing just the right amount of support, while removable pads allow for customizable shaping.
The entire bralette is encased in stretchy lace, featuring a wide lace band that creates an elegant longline effect and offers additional support from below the bust. The plunge front gives it a sultry appearance, yet the cups are designed to be deep enough to prevent any wardrobe malfunctions throughout the day.
While this bralette may not be ideal for everyone, its inclusive size range (S-XXL, 32A-42D) and fuller coverage plunge shape make it an attractive option for those seeking a comfortable and confident fit. The lack of wires or excessive padding allows for a natural silhouette, while the lace makes it suitable for both everyday wear and fashion-forward ensembles.
However, some users may encounter difficulties when putting on the bralette due to its over-the-head design, particularly those with larger busts but smaller underbusts. Additionally, the straps are not adjustable, which may pose a challenge for individuals with longer torso measurements or a larger distance between their shoulders and bust. Ultimately, this bralette is an excellent choice for those seeking a wardrobe staple that provides support, comfort, and style.
Best Premium Bralette: Calvin Klein Women’s Modern Cotton Bralette
Calvin Klein’s bralette is a no-frills, comfortable option that delivers on its promise of reliability. It’s a straightforward design that gets the job done. One of the standout features of this bralette is its breathable fabric blend, made primarily of cotton. The thicker straps and elastic band provide support without feeling too constricting. There are no hooks, pads, or wires to get in the way, making it a lightweight and soft option that’s similar to a sports bra but without the compression.
While this bralette has some great qualities, it’s not perfect. One of its main drawbacks is that it doesn’t provide excellent coverage. If you wear it under a thin shirt, you may find that your nipples are visible on chilly days. Additionally, it won’t do much to prevent bounce, which can be uncomfortable if you have a larger bust. The stretch fabric also has a tendency to lose its shape over time, especially if you’re wearing it all day.
However, this can be mitigated by buying the bralette a little smaller or using it for casual wear rather than as an everyday staple. Overall, Calvin Klein’s bralette is a great choice for someone looking for a soft and comfortable loungewear option that doesn’t scream ‘feminine.’ If you’re a fan of the brand, the subtle branding on the underbust band will be a nice touch. Just keep in mind that it may not be suitable for everyday wear or more active pursuits.
Best Budget Bralette: Kalon 4 Pack Racerback Sports Bralette
The 4-pack of basic V-neck bralettes from this brand offers excellent value, especially for those with smaller busts. The highlight of these bralettes is their inclusivity in design, offering skin tone shades that cater to a variety of skin colors, making them nearly invisible under light clothing. Each bralette comes with removable pads for added shaping and coverage or the option to go without. The brand also scales the band size, providing more support for larger busts.
These bralettes are perfect for low-impact activities, preventing spillage and pinching at the sides and underarms. The adjustable straps allow you to position them comfortably. While these bralettes are great for smaller busts, they may not be suitable for those with larger cup sizes (D cup or above). The cup space is too shallow, resulting in potential spillage during movement. Additionally, the removable pads can be problematic, shifting or rolling up during washing and wear.
They don’t cover the full breast cup, which can cause lines if the bra fits tightly. However, these bralettes are ideal for those seeking light day-to-day support. The seamless look works well with many outfits, making them suitable for both casual and more formal occasions. Post-nursing moms may find this multipack especially comfortable, as it doesn’t force a particular shape but lightly supports the natural silhouette.
Best Lace Bralette for Small Underbust/Large Cup Size: YIANNA Women Floral Lace Bralette
This bralette is a standout choice for those with larger cup sizes, offering a perfect blend of comfort, support, and style. One of its most notable features is the deep and stretchy cups that provide ample room for larger breasts to fit comfortably. The cups are designed to accommodate a wide range of breast sizes, ensuring a snug and supportive fit. The bralette’s design also includes a flattering racerback shape, which creates a beautiful silhouette when worn with low-back garments.
Additionally, the removable pads allow wearers to customize their level of coverage for added shaping or support as needed. Available in six colors, this bralette is not only stylish but also practical. The lacy scallop-edged straps add a touch of elegance, and the wide lace racerback provides both support and a striking visual appeal when worn with low-cut tops or dresses.
While some wearers may find the straps to be slightly too long, they are not adjustable, which can be a drawback for those with larger chests. Furthermore, the seam down the front of the cup can be visible in clothing due to its thickness, and the lace is somewhat fragile and prone to developing holes when machine washed. Despite these minor drawbacks, this bralette remains an excellent choice for women with narrower rib cages and larger breasts.
The underbust-based sizing combined with the deep, stretchy cups ensures a secure fit, making it a comfortable option for everyday wear. For those who require more support or find the straps too long, there are simple solutions such as stitching or pinning them to achieve the desired level of tautness. This bralette is also an excellent choice for pregnant women, offering enough coverage and comfort while lounging around the house or transitioning to outdoor wear.
Best Bralette for Small Busts: Mae Women’s Lace Padded Bralette
The appeal of this bralette lies in its thoughtful design, which combines light wireless comfort with shape-enhancing padding. This makes it an excellent choice for smaller busts, providing just enough coverage and support. What’s more, the adjustable straps and subtle stretch in the band ensure a comfortable fit, while the removable padding allows you to customize the level of shaping you desire.
The thin straps are discreetly designed to minimize visibility under tank tops or off-the-shoulder blouses. Available in a range of basic and bold colors, this bralette is visually appealing enough to be worn under low-cut armholes or plunging necklines. A floral lace overlay adds an extra layer of elegance, complete with a scalloped lace band that runs along the underbust.
One of its greatest strengths lies in its ability to provide structure without flattening out the chest, while the padding can also offer a subtle bust volume boost without looking too obvious. However, the thick lace overlay does pose some limitations – thin shirts may show the texture of the lace, creating an uneven appearance. Additionally, the edges of the lace may rub against the skin around the underarms, which could be uncomfortable for some.
Despite these downsides, this bralette remains a great option for cup sizes A-C. Its ideal fit seems to be for individuals with wider underbusts but smaller cups. Those with narrower underbusts and larger cups may not find it as flattering or supportive. The removable padding makes it suitable for those seeking a more natural look without the need for wires or push-up cups.
It’s also a great choice for anyone who wants to show off their bralette under a low-cut blouse or peeking out from a button-down shirt, thanks to its full cup coverage and secure fit.
Best Bralette for a Large Bust: Bali Women’s Desire Wirefree
The Bali bralette stands out for its extensive size range, catering to larger busts with options up to 46DD. This wireless bralette boasts unique features that set it apart from standard bralettes. A sheer mesh panel at the front provides additional coverage and helps keep the lightly padded cups in place while moving, minimizing the risk of spills. Adjustable straps can be converted to a racerback style, and a back hook closure offers ease of use.
While this design excels at providing support and comfort, some may find issue with the prominent seam running down each cup, which could be noticeable under fitted tops. Additionally, the central panel may not flatter all breast shapes, potentially creating an undesirable ‘uni-boob’ effect. For those who value convenience, the back hook and adjustable straps are major advantages.
This bralette is particularly well-suited for bustier women seeking a comfortable and secure fit without the discomfort of wires or split front cups.
Best Camisole Bralette: ATTRACO Women’s Cotton Camisole Shelf Bra
When it comes to the full camisole, we love it because it provides gentle support while offering complete torso coverage. This clever design features a double layer of soft, stretchy cotton fabric that creates a built-in shelf bra, along with an adjustable elastic band around the underbust to keep everything in place. The fit is comfortable and flexible, falling just above the hip for most wearers. The neckline is a moderate scoop, providing coverage without being too revealing.
One of its greatest strengths lies in its ability to serve as a reliable substitute for a bralette or camisole, making it perfect for low-impact activities, lounging around the house, or even layering under jackets and tops. While there are some drawbacks to this design, we appreciate the adjustable straps that improve support and comfort. However, it’s worth noting that these straps are held together with thin plastic rings, which may break with repeated wear or washing.
Additionally, the camisole tends to run a bit large, so those with smaller busts might find it too loose for optimal support. Ultimately, this full camisole is ideal for anyone seeking a versatile garment that provides light support and complete torso coverage. It’s perfect for everyday wear, layering under other garments, or as a comfortable lounge piece.
Best Halter Neck Bralette: Jojoans Floral Lace Halter Bra Bralette Top
This flirty halter bralette is designed to accentuate and provide light support for your bust. With its nylon/spandex material and scallop-edge lace details along the straps and underbust, it’s a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down. The cups are lined but not padded, offering a natural look and feel. An elastic band provides support from underneath, while the halter straps emphasize your bust and create a shapely silhouette.
The adjustable hook and eye back closure makes it easy to put on and adjust for a comfortable fit. While this bralette is suitable for many body types, there are some considerations to keep in mind. For example, shorter wearers or those with short torsos may find the halter neck too long and uncomfortable. Additionally, heavy busts may require more firm support from below rather than relying on the neck strap.
The front has a wide opening, which can put you at risk for breast spillage, and the sides are low-cut, showing a bit of side boob. Despite these limitations, this bralette is still a great option for many people. Nursing moms may appreciate its light support and easy breastfeeding access, while others may enjoy its ability to enhance their natural shape and keep even a large bust in place.
The inner lining makes it comfortable and discreet, making it suitable for wearing as a beach top or lounging around at home.
Best Lace Plunge Bralette: Mae Women’s Racerback Lace Plunge Bralette
This bralette is a great option for those looking for a simple and comfortable basic piece. The soft lace and plunge style design make it a popular choice among women with smaller busts, particularly A-C cup sizes. The cups are lined but lack heavy padding, while the thin elastic along the underbust and straps provides some support. However, this bralette is not suitable for larger busts as it can cause flattening and spreading of the breasts.
Additionally, the deep plunge design can be problematic for those who engage in active exercises or bend over, as it may lead to the front slipping out. On the other hand, women with smaller busts will appreciate the minimal support and romantic style that this bralette offers. It’s perfect for lounging at home or making a video call while feeling comfortable and covered.
Best Bandeau Bralette: Boao Women’s Floral Lace Tube Top Bra Bandeau
This bandeau offers a simple yet effective solution for providing basic strapless coverage, making it an excellent wardrobe staple. The lack of padding or shaping means it primarily serves as a fabric strip around the chest, with two strips of elastic at the top and bottom to secure its position. The front is lined with soft modal, while the back features sheer lace.
One of its primary advantages is providing coverage around the front and sides, making it an ideal choice for low-cut or open-sided tops that can be challenging to pair with other bras or bralettes. This bandeau sits higher in the front, creating a smooth look that’s perfect for everyday wear. However, there are some limitations to consider.
The length of the bandeau does not vary between sizes, which may lead to issues with larger cup sizes not being adequately covered, potentially resulting in spilling out at the bottom. Additionally, the bandeau can slip down during wear, requiring occasional adjustments. In terms of support, this bandeau falls short, offering little more than a fabric strip around the chest.
It’s not designed to provide any actual support or shaping for the bust, so those looking for a bra that will keep their breasts in place may want to consider alternative options. Despite these limitations, this bandeau remains a useful choice for those seeking side coverage, particularly those with smaller busts or individuals who simply need a bit of nipple coverage.
It’s also an excellent option for someone looking to add a touch of sex appeal to their outfit without drawing attention away from the rest of the clothing.
Answering Your Burning Questions About Bralettes
Having explored our curated selection, you’re likely starting to develop an understanding of which styles of bralettes suit your taste and preferences best. However, it’s natural to still have some lingering questions or uncertainties. In this section, we’ll aim to address each of these queries head-on, providing clarity and guidance as you continue to narrow down your options.
What’s the Difference Between a Bra and a Bralette?
While the fundamental purpose of both standard bras and bralettes remains the same – providing support for the breasts – their approaches differ significantly. Bras, as we commonly know them, are designed to divide the bust into two distinct cups, offering a specific shape and lift. This is particularly true for push-up styles that provide an amplified silhouette. Standard bras often employ underwires to facilitate this lifting effect.
However, many women find these traditional bras uncomfortable due to the unnatural positioning or shape they maintain throughout the day. The wires can cause discomfort by digging into the skin or even poking through and jabbing the wearer. Moreover, bra bands tend to be inflexible, leading to pinching and welts if the garment is not properly fitted. In contrast, bralettes are designed to offer a more relaxed alternative.
Soft and stretchy in nature, they provide some subtle shaping but do not force the breasts into two symmetrical cups, which can lead to breast asymmetry – a common issue many women experience. Bralettes prioritize comfort over dramatic lifting or shaping, allowing the breasts to sit naturally without constriction or compression. Unlike sports bras, bralettes won’t compress the chest or reduce bounce during high-intensity activities.
Instead, they strive to keep the bust comfortable and covered in a way that’s closer to its natural state.
What Size Bralette Should You Wear?
When it comes to bra fittings, many women are surprised to learn that they’re wearing the wrong size – up to 80% of women, to be exact. With sizes fluctuating due to age, hormones, exercise, and childbirth, it’s no wonder it can be challenging to keep track. Bralettes offer more flexibility, making them a comfortable choice for those in flux postpartum or experiencing weight changes. However, most size charts are based on band and cup measurements.
To find your correct size at home, simply use a tape measure.
Bralettes often feature small/medium/large tag sizes that correspond to various band/cup combinations. For instance, a small may fit 32A-C or 34B. Some brands provide actual measurements for the bust or underbust, which we’ll note in our product reviews. Occasionally, however, some brands only offer the tag size without detailed sizing information, leaving you to make an educated guess – not ideal if you’re new to bralettes.
When Should You Wear a Bralette?
Whether you’re working from home, dealing with body changes during pregnancy and postpartum, or just looking for a comfortable option for casual outings, bralettes offer a versatile solution. Unlike traditional bras, which can be restrictive and uncomfortable, bralettes provide a soft, stretchy fit that adapts to your changing shape. For many people, working from home has become the new norm.
While it’s tempting to stay in pajamas all day, getting dressed helps create a sense of professionalism and separation between work and personal life. A supportive yet comfortable bralette like the Calvin Klein Women’s Modern Cotton Bralette can provide the perfect balance of comfort and practicality, allowing you to feel more put-together without sacrificing relaxation. Pregnancy and postpartum bring their own set of challenges when it comes to finding a comfortable bra.
As your breasts grow and shrink, a traditional bra can become constricting and uncomfortable. Bralettes, on the other hand, tend to be softer and more stretchy, providing a gentle fit that accommodates these changes. The YIANNA Floral Lace Bralette is a great option for this period, offering a super-stretchy design that makes nursing easy and comfortable. Finally, bralettes are perfect for casual outings like brunch or hiking.
You can wear them under your favorite flowy dress or simply pair one with a comfortable pair of jeans and a t-shirt. For added style, you can let the bralette peek out from under an off-the-shoulder blouse or slouchy sweater, or show it off in a backless top or with an extra button undone.
Will Bralettes Make Your Breasts Saggy?
While some women are hesitant to go without a bra, even sleeping in one due to concerns about breast sagging, research suggests that restrictive bras may actually contribute to the problem by weakening muscles rather than allowing them to build strength naturally. As such, we recommend avoiding bras altogether, even as sleepwear.
This isn’t to say that everyone is better off without a bra – there are some exceptions, such as during high-impact exercise where a supportive sports bra can help reduce pain and injury. Ultimately, all breasts will experience some degree of sagging over time, particularly in larger-breasted individuals.
Rather than striving for an unrealistic ideal of perfectly round breasts with permanent cleavage, it’s essential to prioritize comfort and accept that some sagging is simply a natural part of life.
Can You Wear a Bralette if You Have Large Breasts?
Give Bralettes a Try
Women often go to great lengths to conform to societal beauty standards, exemplified by the widespread use of push-up bras that can be uncomfortable at times. While it’s understandable to want to accentuate one’s curves for a confidence boost, it’s equally important to strike a balance and appreciate one’s body as it is. By embracing our natural shapes and quirks, we can cultivate a deeper sense of self-acceptance and comfort in our own skin.
One way to do this is by exploring the world of bralettes. These charming, laid-back bras offer a more relaxed alternative to traditional push-up styles. Not only are they often more comfortable, but they also provide a subtle yet stylish way to add some flair to an outfit. Whether you’re looking for a fashion statement or simply want to feel more at ease, there’s a bralette out there that fits your size and style.
