Sara Holzman
Bralettes are no longer synonymous with adolescent training bras. Today, this wear-everywhere staple is a fashion statement in its own right. And whether you're looking for a style to wear while lounging at home, for peeking out underneath a top, or as a full-on top replacement, we have bralette picks for every vibe. (For outfit inspo, check out our guide to what to wear with a bralette.)
“An everyday bralette should provide equal support and comfort, without sacrificing that feeling of being held,” says Helena Stuart, founder of Only Hearts. “It should add a little lift and be fitted well to the body.”
What should I look for in a bralette?
- Check the size. Remember that bralettes aren’t one-size-fits-all. “Most brands have conversion size charts that help you narrow down what may work,” says Stuart.
- Quality counts. “What makes it or breaks it is the tension of the elastic used in the design,” explains Stuart. “It has to be just right! Soft, but also with some lift.”
- Coverage is key. Some bralettes may be light on fabric, but fuller sizes may still want to find options that provide enough coverage, “just like in a traditional underwire,” says Stuart. However, she says, “It really can depend on the type of bralette! Some are just for fun, but for every day I would look for wider shoulder straps and lined cups, for extra support.”
The sheer mesh is a little saucy, but it also has boning at the sides to add just enough shape and support.
Celebs like Kourtney Kardashian and HoYeon Jung are obsessed with this sporty, '90s-inspired style. It doesn't have any bells and whistles, but it sure is soft and stretchy—and what else do we really need?
It can be tough to find a bralette that fits larger bust sizes—and perhaps even more difficult to find a pretty one. But this Italian-made style is both supportive and beautiful, and fits up to a size 40H.
Not only is this bralette ridiculously comfy (it’s seamless, wireless, and free of elastic), it also has convertible straps you can wear straight or criss-cross, and removable cups. Sold!
This longline lace style is a pretty option if you prefer a bit of padding, and it will look oh-so-cute peeking out of a tank top come festival season.
This sheer mesh bralette is all Savage x Fenty sex appeal, all day. And don’t worry about navigating all those straps—it has a convenient front closure.
This simple, unpadded style couldn’t be softer, and the lace band is pretty without veering into va-va-voom territory.
This silky-smooth bralette minimizes odor and wicks moisture, making it the ideal do-it-all piece.
This knit number's '70s-style stripes and halter neck style will add retro flare to any ensemble.
Pair this sky blue ruched bralette with the matching skirt for an instant outfit.
This investment bralette, made famous by Katie Holmes, is knitted from ultra-soft cashmere. Layer it under a denim jacket for all of the cool girl vibes.
This everyday triangle bralette is soft against the skin and offers a supportive elastic band.
