Bralettes are great in theory — they're soft, comfy and flexible, after all — but for many of us, this relaxed intimates style doesn't always provide the support we need.
The most supportive bras in this category provide extra fabric and stretch to make your dressing experience, stress-free and efficient. The Shop TODAY team has been on the hunt for some lightweight bra options that offer comfort and coverage, and we recently stumbled upon some shopper-approved options that seem pretty promising.
But first, we asked a bra expert for her tips and recommendation when shopping for bralettes. We're pretty sure you (and your chest) will love this expert's advice.
What is the difference between a bralette and a bra?
According to ThirdLove co-founder Ra'el Cohen, "the main difference between a bra and a bralette is that a bra will have an underwire and a bralette will be wireless."
While some bralettes still offer hooks and adjustable straps, their construction also offers more stretch than traditional bras.
What features should you look for in a bralette?
"It’s important for a bralette to be comfortable and still offer support," says Cohen. Some bralette features that can help accomplish protection are foam cups "for smoothing support and an adjustable back and straps for a customized fit."
What are the best bralettes for large busts?
Large busts require extra coverage and some of the features to look for "include fuller coverage cups that are comfortable and supportive, a wide band with a smoothing silhouette and straps that stay put but never dig in," says Cohen. Basically, you want a bralette that won't pinch, squash or squeeze your breasts, similar to this wireless bra for plus-size women.
Most supportive bralettes, according to customers
Rhonda Shear Ahh Divine Underwire Leisure Bra
Sizes: XS-3X | Colorways: 4 | Material: Spandex and nylon blend | Underwire: Yes | Padding: No
If you love wearing deep-V necklines, this bralette will give you the softest feel with its knit-in features. The advanced tech compression and nylon/spandex blend created extra breathability and a seamless shape when wearing tops. Customers call this bralette a midway between a regular bra and a sports bra.
"Love the wide straps and pull-on ease. The bra doesn’t move all day. It gives wonderful support. And unlike other pull-ons, the underwire separates instead giving you a [uniboob]," shared one customer.
Old Navy V-Neck No-Show Bralette
Sizes: XS-4X | Colorways: 13 | Material: Nylon and spandex blend | Underwire: No | Padding: No
Striking the "perfect balance" between supportive and feeling like you're not wearing a bra in the first place, Shop TODAY page Casey Dawson adores this no-show pick from Old Navy because it's "extremely affordable, the thicker material feels very high quality and it's pretty much seamless under anything."
Pearl By Venus Lace Bralette
Sizes: XS-2X | Colorways: 16 | Material: Nylon and spandex blend with a sheer lace back | Underwire: No | Padding: Yes
With this sassy bralette, you'll never have to sacrifice style for comfort. The lacy design comes in over a dozen colors and has a light lining that provides just enough coverage. The flexible style also comes in letter sizes, so it's easier to find your perfect fit!
The Gap Seamless Ribbed Bralette
Sizes: XXS-2X | Colorways: 13 | Material: Nylon and polyurethane blend; ribbed fabric | Underwire: No | Padding: No
For those in-between outfits that require some lift, senior SEO editor Jess Bender recommends this ribbed bralette for some "semblance" of support. A full-coverage option for wearing underneath sundresses, T-shirts or loose blouses, there's no need to fuss with padding or adjustable straps — simply slip it on.
Jockey Generation Recycled Seamfree Ribbed Plunge Bralette
Sizes: S-2X | Colorways: 4 | Material: Nylon and spandex blend; ribbed fabric | Underwire: No | Padding: Yes (padded cups)
Make your clothes look extra sleek with this budget-friendly plus-size bralette find. It is perfect for larger busts and has sewn-in cups for extra coverage, a plunging neckline and adjustable straps. The stretchy rib knit is meant to offer wire-free support while the seam-free design provides a smooth finish to your clothes.
ThirdLove Form Seamless Scoop Bralette
Sizes: XS-3X | Colorways: 9 | Material: Spandex and nylon blend; ribbed fabric | Underwire: No | Padding: Yes (removable foam cups)
For those looking for extra comfort, opt for ThirdLove's scoop bralette. This design features a four-way stretch that gives you extra freedom to move, along with an invisible fit that won't dig into your skin. It comes in different neutral hues and limited-edition colors to match your wardrobe.
One verified reviewer said this bralette is "super comfy, and I don't have any issues with the insert pads. Nice support, a little compression. Overall very happy with this bra."
Warners 'Easy Does It' Seamless Bralette
Sizes: XS-3X | Colorways: 8 | Material: Nylon and elastane blend | Underwire: No | Padding: No
This has become assistant partnerships editor Lauren Witonsky's "everyday" bralette, wearing it underneath outfits for the office and a night out alike thanks to its convertible straps that make it easy to adjust as needed with strapless and tank tops.
The Tank Bralette
Sizes: XS-3X | Colorways: 9 | Material: Rayon and spandex blend | Underwire: No | Padding: No
Searching for a bralette that will actually support a larger bust? Look no further! Andie's tank bralette offers full coverage and layers seamlessly under clothing. The closure-free back, soft rayon fabric and flattering scoop neck design are just a few of our favorite features.
Red Hot by Spanx Primers Bralette
Sizes: S-XL | Colorways: 3 | Material: Nylon and elastane blend | Underwire: No | Padding: Yes (removable pads)
Spanx knows a thing or two about support, and the brand hit it out of the park with this bralette. The slight V-neck design and adjustable straps are some of our favorite features and we adore the fact that the cling-free fabric won't stick to your skin or clothes.
Skims Triangle Bralette
Sizes: XXS-4X | Colorways: 13 | Material: Polyamide and elastane blend | Underwire: No | Padding: No
"I hate wearing real bras and basically only wear these now," said associate editor Emma Stessman of this "surprisingly supportive" bralette from Skims. Available in an inclusive size range, this bralette also features adjustable straps, so you can ensure you're receiving a comfortable fit.
Floatley Cozy Wireless Bra
Sizes: XS-2X | Colorways: 7 | Material: Nylon and spandex blend | Underwire: No | Padding: Yes
Many bralettes look cute but offer flimsy coverage, but this one from Floatley offers the best of both worlds. The wire-free style is made of a light, breathable fabric that dries quickly and it has stylish straps that add a touch of sass. Basically, your shirts will look smooth thanks to the smooth bonding edges on the strap.
Bombas Ribbed Seamless Bralette
Sizes: XS-2X | Colorways: 8 | Material: Nylon and modal blend; light ribbed fabric | Underwire: No | Padding: No
With convertible and adjustable straps, this bralette proves to be versatile, making it the ideal option when needing to pack lightweight or wear with multiple outfits. Inclusive sizing (up to size F!) makes this bralette even more ideal, and the brand notes that the bra might feel a bit snug at first, but more relaxed after a couple of wears. However, if you're nervous about it not fitting, they recommend sizing up initially.
Splits59 Loren Seamless Bra
Sizes: XS-2X | Colorways: 4 | Material: Nylon and spandex blend | Underwire: No | Padding: No
For a bralette that could also double as a sports bra, meet your match with this one from Splits59. Commerce editor Vivien Moon rarely wears a regular bra, noting this one as her "top pick" for bralettes, further adding that it provides a "comfortable, lightweight" fit.
True Body Triangle Lace Racerback Bralette
Sizes: XS-XL | Colorways: 3 | Material: Nylon and elastane blend with a lace racerback | Underwire: No | Padding: Yes
We've professed our love for True & Co.'s Triangle Bralette before, so we're thrilled to see that the brand has a lacy racerback style, too. The soft bra feels like you're wearing nothing at all, but it also hugs you in all the right places and gives just the right amount of lift. Removable cups and an adjustable back also help!
Meet the expert
- Ra'el Cohen is the co-founder and chief creative office of ThirdLove. She also holds a degree in fashion design from the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising.
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