The Best Strapless Bras

Buying Guide for Strapless Bras

Why buy a strapless bra? 

Sometimes a loose strap or cross-back bra can be just the right finishing touch on an outfit, but when it’s less intentional, it may look a touch sloppy. A strapless bra is in order when you want to have your arms, back, or décolletage bare and strap-free. If you’re tired of constantly tucking your bra straps in or having them fall to your elbows by lunchtime, it’s time to invest in a strapless bra. We’ve collected the best of each in this list, from traditional strapless bras to bandeaus and sticky bras.

What should you look for in a strapless bra?

• Size: A strapless bra must be the correct size to stay in place and cover everything correctly. The best way to find your fit is to measure around your chest and consult the product’s size charts with those numbers in mind.
• Style: Some strapless bras offer full coverage, acting as a type of wrap-around. Others will be sticky, clinging to only the areas that need to be covered and leaving the back open. These sticky bras are excellent for backless dresses.
• Colors: Most strapless bras offer three basic colors—beige, black, and white. Carefully consider the color of the shirt going over the bra before purchasing to make sure it’s not seen through the fabric. Other strapless bras are almost created to be seen, acting as a sort of “mini top” that adds an extra layer of texture to an outfit.

Are strapless bras true to your standard size? 

This varies a lot from bra to bra and can depend on what style you’re going for. A bandeau bra will often size from small-large, while traditional strapless bras will use the standard alphabetical cup and band size model. It’s important to read the brand’s sizing guide before purchasing.

Our Picks for the Best Strapless Bras

Pros: Available in multiple colors, styles, and sizes, this comfortable bra is made of nylon and spandex blend with soft four-way stretch. The fabric and construction also provide a smoothing effect across the back to avoid showing texture beneath your clothing. The bra offers lightly lined cups for a modest shape and nonslip silicone along the underwire and sides for a secure hold that won’t irritate your skin. Equipped with removable and adjustable straps that can be worn in five different ways, this bra can handle any outfit while giving you the right amount of coverage and support.

Cons: Like any wire bra, this strapless bra can cause discomfort on the rib cage. If you struggle with pain from standard wired bras, this is not the right choice.

Bottom Line: This is a great traditional strapless bra at a great price, made better with removable, convertible straps, but may be more constrictive than you’d prefer in a strapless brassiere. Pro tip: hook it on the last set of hooks so you can tighten it as it inevitably stretches out.

 

Pros: This 100% silicone adhesive bra comes with a classic front clasp closure and is available in a great range of sizes in cup sizes A to F. The clasp opens and closes easily and can be adjusted to provide you with lift and cleavage as desired. With ultrastrong body-grade adhesive, you won’t feel this bra shifting or falling around your waist when you get out on the dance floor. It also lays beautifully and edge-free beneath your clothes. This is an excellent buy for backless dresses or tops. Plus, you can reuse this bra multiple times if cared for properly, and it comes with two bonus nipple covers.

Cons: Be ultra-gentle and patient as you peel it off as the adhesive is strong.

Bottom Line: Providing light, natural lift, and support without any straps or a painful bra make this bra hard to beat.

 

Pros: We love this super-stretchy bandeau bra pack for tank tops, athleisure, and off-the-shoulder looks. These seamless, strapless bras can go from yoga class to beach parties. They can also provide modesty coverage if you don’t want the exposure from a push-up strapless bra. They come in three- and four-packs in a variety of color combos. Bonus: there are no fasteners, so you won’t need to try to strap into this bra awkwardly, making this a great bra for women with back, shoulder, and arm pain.

Cons: This isn’t the bra to reach for if you’re looking for maximum perkiness and cleavage. It offers minimal support and maximum coverage. Additionally, sizing is slightly off, so you’ll want to go with your typical shirt size rather than bra size conversion.

Bottom Line: We love this as the ultimate comfy bra, great for lounging at home, going to Pilates, or wearing under your favorite Bardot top.

 

Pros: This corseted bra offers a new twist with an ultra-low back and only three hooks. This makes it easier to get yourself into without an extra pair of hands. This is ideal for backless gowns and would make for fabulous bridal lingerie thanks to its structured frontal support and alluring lower-back band. Corseted bras often have uncomfortable bones that can jut and cut, but this model has a spandex bodice for maximum comfort and stretch. It is available in black, white, and two shades of off-white.

Cons: While this corseted bra provides considerable frontal support and shaping, it does not go to the top of the hip. This can cause some odd weight distribution and bulging, so you should try it on with your outfit before wearing it out.

Bottom Line: A corseted bra is a great, structured, and sexy undergarment. The Noemi is ideal for special events and bridal lingerie and much easier to put on than many other corsets.

 

Pros: This is for all the ladies who can’t stand a jutting wire or overly structured bra. Yummie specializes in curve-hugging, body-shaping undergarments that make you feel supported, not squeezed. The band also falls lower down the waist than most strapless bras, which gives you a smoothing effect without awkward bulging.

Cons: The band may be too tight on the waist and ribcage, leading to extreme discomfort. It’s recommended to size up so you can move freely and comfortably.

Bottom Line: Yummie has created a great wire-free strapless bra with a similar shape to more traditional designs.

Final Thoughts

Bra shopping can be intimidating, especially online, but there’s no need to get overwhelmed. Measuring tape is your best friend, and there is a strapless bra out there for you and your unique body type and style. Don’t let straps or uncomfortable bras ruin your new favorite outfit, and use this guide to find the right fit for you.