The Best Strapless Bras

If you’re looking for a bra style that can take pressure off your shoulders and be more discrete than a traditional bra with straps, then consider a good strapless bra. Not only can this bra type still provide a good level of support, but you can find versatile options suitable for everything from everyday wear to formal events. A well-fitting strapless bra can even suffice for workouts.

Before you start exploring strapless bra options, you’ll want to get your sizing down. The band will be providing the extra support without the straps there, so getting this sizing right is crucial. You might want to get a bra with the band one size smaller than usual for a snug fit, but this can depend on the manufacturer and style. However, you should be able to go with your normal cup sizing.

There are plenty of strapless bra varieties that can be suitable for different needs. These include different methods of closure, materials used, coverage and support levels.

Many strapless bras look more like traditional bras and have front or back clasps. These can come in very supportive styles or even as push-up bras. You can find these in a variety of materials and styles, and they can provide partial or full bust coverage.

Other options come in a stretchy bandeau style that’s easier to take off and put on since there aren’t clasps. These are popular for casual wear along with exercise bras. They can both provide a snug fit and a lot of coverage.

There are also adhesive strapless bras that only cover the front for hidden wear. These can be very comfortable since not only do they have no straps, but they don’t have a band either. Instead, the bra sticks to your skin until you’re ready to remove it. Sometimes, you can find non-adhesive bras like this too.

If you’re looking for more flexibility, you can consider convertible strapless bras. You’ll get straps you can add or remove as needed. These can be a good option when you sometimes will want more support.

Thinking about your support and comfort needs will help you decide whether you need an underwire strapless bra. If you need more support, you can do better with an underwire strapless bra, but the drawback can be reduced comfort. Those needing less support or more comfort might opt for a wire-free option.

Padding is another consideration for strapless bras. Going with padding can both provide the look of more volume and improved coverage. On the other hand, a strapless bra without padding can look more natural. Either option can provide comfort, so it ultimately comes down to your preferences.

• Some strapless bras come with typical band and cup sizes, and finding the right size can be easier in this case. However, others come in more general sizes like small, medium or large. You’ll want to read the sizing chart and find which size most closely matches your measurements. Also, check reviews to make sure a particular option doesn’t run irregularly since you’d then maybe need a size up or down.
• Having your strapless bra not stay in place can be a downside with this option. Along with choosing the proper size, you can look for options marketed as “nonslip” since these usually have silicone in the elastic to improve grip. You can also consider using fashion tape if you need some extra grip.
• If you have a larger bust, pay close attention to the number of hooks if you choose a strapless bra with them. To ensure not too tight of a fit, consider it safer to go with an option with more hooks. Also, make sure you have determined the right cup size.
• While strapless bras can suffice for light exercise like yoga, consider a traditional sports bra with straps if you’re doing a heavy workout. This ensures you’ll get the right level of support and be more comfortable during your exercises.
• Considering your intended wear will be helpful. If you’re looking for something plain and comfortable to wear under a t-shirt, for example, you might prefer a bandeau-style bra or a cotton strapless bra with traditional hooks. On the other hand, if you’re wearing a formal dress to a wedding or other outing, you can find fancier strapless bras that will blend in, have the right cut and provide sufficient support.