Shopping for bras often becomes more of a task than it has to be. Should you go for the plunge or the wireless? Are bralettes really worth the hype? These are some of the questions you might've asked yourself during your search.
To make your shopping spree easier, we talked to experts about different types of bras — and their advice could help you determine which ones are best for you.
“Having the right selection of bras in your repertoire can make getting dressed in the morning so much easier, says stylist Lindsey Bernay. “[It] is just as important as owning a pair of perfectly fitting jeans.”
Read on as our experts break down the five bra styles you should have in your closet, from the classic T-shirt bra to a supportive unlined bra and more. Plus, they reveal the best way to determine your cup and band size at home.
Expert-recommended bra styles | Editor-loved bras | What bra type is best for everyday wear? | How to measure your bust | How we chose | Meet the experts
The best bra styles to own, according to experts
T-shirt bras
"T-shirt bras are essential for everyday wear and provide a smooth silhouette under fitted tops," suggests Bernay. "The soft cups and no-show design make it perfect to wear under everything from T-shirts to silk blouses."
T-shirt bras, however, "come in lots of different styles to suit your personality and breast size or shape," explains Emma Woodrow, a Buyer for Lingerie at Pour Moi — so you have many options to find the right pick. "It’s no wonder they’re one of our bestselling styles."
An under-$20 option: Fruit of the Loom Breathable Spacer T-Shirt Bra
- Hook and eye back closures
- Adjustable front straps
- Sheer neckline
- Has spacer cups
Size range: 34 to 42; B to DDD | Shades: 4 | Material: Polyester and spandex
You don't always need to splurge on a comfortable and quality bra. Case in point: Fruit of the Loom's Breathable Spacer T-Shirt Bra. Recommended by Bernay, this bra has hook-and-eye back closures (plus adjustable front straps) to customize to your liking. There's also an inner sling to lift and shape your bust.
Best neutral shade range: Skims Wireless Form T-Shirt Demi Bra
- Great shade range
- Goes up to an H
- Molded foam pads
- Some say it runs a bit small
Size range: 30 to 46; A to H | Shades: 14 | Material: Polyamide and elastane
Bernay also loves this pick from Skims, which offers an impressive range of shades and sizes so you can find your perfect neutral and fit. The brand boasts that the bra has lightly lined and molded foam pads as well as a wireless style that doesn't compromise support and comfort.
Sports bras
"This will be a sweat-wicking material and have much more support and control than other bra types," explains Helmeid. "If you have a larger chest and will be doing running, jumping or other high intensity workouts, definitely look into brands that specialize in high-impact control."
A workout-pro favorite: Lululemon Free to Be Bra WildLight Support
- Low-friction fabric
- Four-way stretch
- Breathable
- Designed for A/B cups
Size range: 2 to 14 | Shades: 8 | Material: Nylon and Lycra elastane
Maddy Ciccone, a master instructor at SoulCycle, previously recommended Lululemon's Free to Be sports bra in our best sports bras coverage and said it was her "all-time favorite." We're guessing it's because the bra is cooling, has four-way stretch, removable cups and more.
For light-to-medium impact workouts: FP Movement Square Neck Good Karma Bra
- Multiple color options
- Lightweight and breathable
- Has SPF 30 UV protection
- For light-to-medium workouts
Size range: XS/S to XL | Shades: 16 | Material: Nylon and spandex
Ciccone also raved about this pick from Free People because it's both comfortable and protective. For instance, the bra has built-in SPF 30 UV protection and a ribbed bottom band so it remains in place. "I wear this to virtually all my workouts,” Ciccone previously said.
Bralettes
"For shirts that are very sheer, rather than struggling to find the perfect skin-tone T-shirt bra that disappears, I will often wear a bralette that is meant to be seen," says Helmeid.
"For those that need a little more support, a lacey unlined underwire bra gives the same effect!" But if you're worried about a bralette being too sheer, she recommends adding nipple covers for coverage.
A lace option: Auden Satin and Lace Longline Bralette
- Great for layering
- Some say it rolls up
Size range: XS to XXL | Shades: 3 | Material: Nylon and spandex
"I love lace bralettes in various colors for adding a pretty peek under tank tops or spaghetti strap shirts," suggests Bernay. "It adds a little flair to an outfit while keeping you comfortable and confident. A soft, wire-free bra with beautiful lace detailing offering a feminine, stylish layer," such as this one from Auden.
For everyday comfort: Skims Fits Everybody Scoop Bralette
- Multiple nude options
- Comfortable; stretchy
- Can run slightly small
Size range: XXS to 4X | Shades: 13 | Material: Polyamide and elastane
Bernay also loves bralettes from Skims and considers this style one of her go-to's for everyday comfort. "The fabric molds to your body, giving you a seamless appearance under all clothing," she boasts. "The fabric is lightweight and stretchy, and moves with you while being invisible under clothes. Perfect for daily wear and lounging."
Wireless bras
"For when ultimate comfort is your focus, I pick a wire-free bra," recommends Helmeid.
"If I’m working from home or lounging around the house, I don’t particularly need the full lift an underwire provides. This doesn’t mean all wire-free bras are totally unsupportive, however!"
For lounging: Auden Lightly Lined Wirefree Lounge Bra
- Affordable
- Great size range
- Some say it runs small
Size range: 32 to 40; A to DDD | Shades: 3 | Material: Recycled polyester and spandex
Although the perfect everyday bra is based on personal preference, Bernay says this pick from Auden would be one she'd reach for. "It’s wireless, but still has light padding, so it gives you the perfect blend of support and flexibility, and it looks seamless under tops," she notes.
All about comfort: Intimissimi Adele Wireless Boost Triangle Bra in Ultralight Microfiber
- Great comfort level
- Side boning
- Cups run big
Size range: 32 to 40; B to D | Shades: 6 | Material: Polyamide, elastane and polyester
Taking comfort to the next level, Intimissimi's Adele bra features wireless, lightly padded cups, a thick band and microfiber fabric. “This bra is made from ultrafine microfiber, which makes it feel almost undetectable on the skin,” stylist and designer Juanita Carmet previously told us. “It is one of those bras that you can wear all day comfortably, constructed without underwire.”
Unlined bras
"Unlined bras have an underwire but no molding or padding on the cups," says Helmeid. "This bra type has been trending the past couple years as it provides a very natural shape while still giving you lift.
She goes on to say these are "great if you don’t want the extra bulk that padding or molded cups can sometimes add."
For low or scooped neckline tops: Organic Basics Core Unlined Demi Bra
- Designed with a lower neckline
- Made with cotton
- Enhances shape
- Some say cup runs small
Size range: 32 to 40; A to DD | Shades: 1 | Material: Cotton
According to the brand, "support" and "comfort" are two words to describe the Unlined Demi Bra from Organic Basics. Better yet, Bernay recommends it, too. While it is great for everyday wear, the bra was specifically designed with a low, wide neckline to better fit under tops with lower or scoop necklines.
A plus-size option: Elomi Matilda Side Support Plunge Bra
- Full-coverage
- Wide band with three hooks
- Unlined and sheer
- UK sizing
Size range: 32 to 46; DD to K | Shades: 1 | Material: Polyamide, elastane and cotton
Expert bra fitter Lily Flast previously recommended this unlined bra for bands over 40, as it has a full-figure fit, a great cup range and impressive support to add lift and separation for all sorts of busts. While it is in UK sizing, shopper reviews show no complaints on the fit and boast that it is highly supportive.
Editor-loved bra styles
A bra you can wear in multiple ways: Maidenform Everyday Luxe Wireless T-Shirt Bra
- Straps can be worn crisscross
- Adjustable straps
- Very soft
- Hook is hard to reach
Size range: 34 to 40; A to D | Shades: 5 | Material: Modal and spandex | Type: T-shirt
Everything about this bra is all about being functional. Although we love the cozy modal fabric, the real stars are the adjustable straps.
"The straps are the main player offering a convertible option to wear it crisscross," says SEO writer Jannely Espinal. "It’s a great feature that offers wardrobe versatility and the ability to hide the straps when wearing tank tops or sleeveless tops.”
For no-bra days: Bali Breathe Wireless T-Shirt Bra
- Wireless
- Convertible straps
- Non-traditional sizing for bra
Size range: S to 3X | Shades: 7 | Material: Cotton, modal and spandex | Type: T-shirt
Production associate Audrey Ekman previously said she doesn't enjoy wearing a bra because she usually finds underwires "restrictive and pokey." But for the days she needs some support, she's been reaching for this full-coverage bra from Bali.
"The the collection is literally called 'Bali Breathe,' and it earns its name with its lightweight construction and soft lining that keeps me feeling comfortable, cool and dry, even on 90+ degree days." she explained.
A wireless bra for bigger busts: Shapermint Essentials Smoothing Comfort Wireless Bra
- Smoothing on sides and back
- Customizable fit
- Comfortable material
- Straps can fall down
Size range: S to 4XL | Shades: 4 | Material: Polyamide and elastane | Type: Wireless
Senior SEO editor Jess Bender recommends this bra and says, "This wireless bra from Shapermint (which was given to me as a sample) is the closest thing I’ve found so far that works as a go-to for everyday wear."
She also raves that the bra gives her "just enough lift and support to avoid the dreaded sagging look" and enjoys that she can customize "the straps, cups and closure to make it fit exactly how I like." For instance, the cups and removable, and the straps and adjustable and convertible.
For true coverage: Soma Embraceable Perfect Coverage Bra
- Soft fabric
- Supportive
- True to size
- Reviews mixed on straps
Size range: 32 to 42; B to DDD | Shades: 14 | Material: Nylon and spandex | Type: T-shirt
Soma's Perfect Coverage bra is true to its name, based on reviews and associate editor Shannon Garlin's experience with it. According to the brand, it has stretch contour underwire cups and a wide and seamless band for a fit that feels true to your bust.
"After hearing great things about Soma, I tried on a few in the store and was in awe!," boasts Garlin. "I never had a bra that fit so perfectly and comfortably; I feel like a new women and ended up buying two and planning on buying more."
Editor’s note: Although our expert Holly Ann Wilson is affiliated with Soma, the decision to include this bra in our roundup is because they were independently recommended by our team.
A sports bra for smaller busts: Splits59 Loren Seamless Bra
- Lightweight and breathable
- Soft fabric
- Little support for large busts
Size range: XS/S to XL/XXL | Shades: 5 | Material: Nylon and spandex | Type: Sports bra
"I never thought that a sports bra would become my daily go-to, but in the two years of me having it, I’m pretty sure I’ve worn it on a weekly (if not daily) basis," claims trends editor Vivien Moon. "Not only is it made from the softest material ever, so I feel comfortable all day long, but it’s breathable and non-constricting." She also recommends the bra for those with smaller busts, especially for low-impact days.
For a bit of lift: Etam Bra No. 5 The Lightly Lined Plunge Bra
- Great size range
- Lightly lined
- Very comfortable
- Ships from Europe
Size range: 30 to 40; B to DD | Shades: 6 | Material: Polyamide, polyester and elastane | Type: Plunge
"I’ve struggled to find a bra that fits me properly because I have an unusual size (30DD) and have had to get sister sizes from US brands for years," says Ekman. "Enter: This bra. I was so shocked by how comfortable and supported I felt — no wires digging or uncomfortable band riding up, and my chest actually felt lifted and supported, rather than suppressed or spilling over in the cups. I finally found a bra that fits!"
A sports bra that lasts: Girlfriend Collective Paloma Racerback Bra
- Supportive and stretchy
- Longline silhouette
- Lots of colors to shop
- Band has sticky material
Size range: XXS to 6XL | Shades: 21 | Material: Recycled water bottles and spandex | Type: Sports bra
Commerce writer Emma Stessman said she's talked about this bra "so many times" and "won't stop raving about it" because to put it simply: "It's the perfect bra for working out," she adds.
"It was my go-to bra while marathon training," Stessman boasts, adding that the sports bra is highly supportive without being constricting. "I’ve owned the bras for years and don’t take very good care of my bras (I always throw them in the dryer, sorry), and they’ve held their shape very well."
Loved by experts and editors: ThirdLove 24/7 Classic T-Shirt Bra
- Comfortable
- Big size selection
- Lots of colors to shop
- May take a few tries for size
Size range: 32 to 44; A to H | Shades: 11; lace available | Material: Nylon and spandex | Type: T-shirt
"I classically only wear bras with no underwire. But this T-shirt bra is so comfortable and is the only bra I have that keeps me fully secure and covered," raves social media editorial assistant Annie Shigo. "For reference, I am a DD. It does not dig into my back and has really strong straps so that your chest does not droop." The size range also goes up to an H for bands 32 to 44. According to reviews, the support is equal across all sizes.
When asked about her favorite T-shirt bra, stylist Bernay also recommended this style from ThirdLove.
Most innovative: EBY 3D Precision Bra
- Wireless wire; from silicone
- Wide bands
- Molds to your figure
- Non-traditional bra sizing
Size range: XS to XLDD | Shades: 3 | Material: Nylon and spandex | Type: T-shirt
When it comes to traditional bras, I sacrificed a few (or many) things — a tight band, loose straps, to name a few — to avoid a wire. But Eby's recent launch changed the way I viewed how a bra should fit, and it might make you wonder, too.
Eby's Precision 3D Bra is a true first of its kind, seemingly offering the world's very first wireless wire. In essence, it's a T-shirt bra that eliminates the discomfort of traditional wires through a 3D printed silicone wire (which is coated with slip-proof nylon flocking) and molded cups for maximum support and coverage without the poke. I love how subtle the lift is, too, without doing too much. There won't be any spills here.
What's also unique about the launch (and one of my favorite features) is the 3D Wing Suspension band that acts as a supportive layer, so you should expect support all around, including no side bulge. Say goodbye to conventional bras!
What bra type is best for everyday wear?
“Every day can mean a lot of things for lots of different women,” says Holly Ann Wilson, the Vice President of Design at Soma Intimates. “Some love the simplicity of a bralette or soft wireless, and some love the support of a full coverage high support bra. Figure out what your goal and comfort level is and make that your benchmark for what everyday means to you.”
But to start, Wilson adds that “Understanding your breast shape and size is important when picking the best styles for your shape.”
How to measure your bust at home
Digging straps, unsupportive cups and a tight band are some of the trial and errors you might’ve come across during your journey to finding the right bra. You might even be dealing with one (or more!) of those now.
To help find the correct bra size, both Bernay and Helmeid say you can easily measure at home with just a few steps:
- Band size: "Measure around your ribcage, right under your bust," Bernay recommends to start. Helmeid adds that you should be without a bra (or you can wear a unlined and unpadded bra) while standing up straight for most accurate results. Then, "Make sure the tape measure is snug but not tight,” says Bernay. “This measurement (in inches) will be your band size.” But if you land on an odd number, Helmeid suggests to “round up to the nearest whole number," (meaning an inch more). For instance, if you land on 33 inches, round up to 34.
- Cup size: “Measure around the fullest part of your bust (the tape measure should be level around your back),” notes Bernay. “Subtract your band size from this measurement to get your cup size.” This should also be the loosest measurement, according to Helmeid. She adds that if the measurement falls in-between inches, to “round up to the nearest whole number.”
Again, after writing down these numbers, "you will subtract the band size from your bust size, and the difference in inches denotes the cup size," says Helmeid. "A 1-inch variance means an A cup, 2 inches a B cup, 3 inches a C cup and so on, to an L cup and beyond."
Frequently Asked Questions
"Depending on how you carry your weight and breast tissue, a few options might be a balconette that lifts and pushes forward —slimming your sides, or a minimizer if you are looking for a bra to wear under shirts or blouses to eliminate gapping," says Wilson.
If you need a little bit of lift, "push-up bras are great for anyone that wants to enhance their natural shape or cleavage," notes Woodrow. And of course, a classic underwire bra is a great option, too.
"Cup size is determined by the difference between your band size measurement, and the measurement around the largest part of your bust," explains Helmeid. She also notes that your band size is "strictly the measurement around the ribcage under the bust — so if someone has a wider torso they will have a larger band size."
Even if two people have the same cup or band size, "slight variances in these measurements can lead to very different sizes," Helmeid notes.
The right bra should be both supportive and comfortable — not the other way around. That's way finding the right size, quality of bra and more are important features for a bra fitting correctly.
Helmeid mentions a few things to be mindful of, if you're concerned that your current bra isn't a right fit:
Bands: "Bands will stretch after a few wears, and if the bra is on the looser side to begin with it will not support you as it should," she explains. "The band should be straight and level across your back, the center gore should lay flat against your chest, and the straps should stay in place without digging."
Cups: "If the cup size is too small, breasts could spill out of the top or sides and the underwire could pinch causing discomfort," Helmeid says. "You will want to have several options to try in order to find your perfect fit!"
"If you wear outfits that have a deep neckline, it is ideal to have a plunge bra in your lingerie collection," advises Woodrow. "Perfect for parties and special occasions, plunge bras are made for low-cup top and deep V-necklines."
But if you're wearing something strapless, Woodrow loves multiway and strapless bras because they're one of the most versatile options out there. "Not only do they work under strapless clothing, or clothing with awkward necklines or straps, but many feature straps that can be removed and re-attached in multiple ways," she adds.
How we chose
We leaned on the expertise of fashion experts and stylists and got their recommendations on the best bra types to own (and the best ways to measure your bust). We also tapped into the knowledge of Shop TODAY editors, asking them to share the tried-and-true bra styles they love for everyday wear.
Meet the experts
- Holly Ann Wilson is the Vice President of Design at Soma Intimates.
- Nicole Helmeid is a Senior Buyer at Zappos.com.
- Lindsey Bernay is a fashion expert and stylist based in New York, and the author of the book, “You Can’t Leave the House Naked.”
- Maddy Ciccone is a master instructor at SoulCycle, and a mindset and confidence coach.
- Emma Woodrow is a Buyer for Lingerie at Pour Moi.
- Juanita Carmet is a fashion expert and stylist. She also consults for fashion brand Dona Jo.
