Buying guide for best strapless bras
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Written by devangana
Updated July 2022
The best strapless bra is the one you forget you’re wearing, but finding the right fit is not always easy. Strapless bras are meant to provide essential support while hiding discreetly beneath strapless tops and dresses, but all too often, they slide around so much that you spend the entire day yanking it back into place. It’s a story most women know all too well, but it can be avoided.
You may not wear a strapless bra often, but that doesn’t mean you should just grab the first one you see at the store. There are a number of important factors you should consider to find the strapless bra that won’t let you down.
Here’s a guide to help walk you through these key features.
Considerations
Fit
Strapless bras are sized like regular bras with a number and a letter. The number refers to the band size, while the letter refers to the cup size. Most retailers sell bras ranging from 32A to 42DD. If you need something larger or smaller than this, you may need to do a little more research to find a strapless bra that will fit you.
Ideally, all your bras will be sized appropriately for you, but this is especially important for strapless bras, since you won’t have any straps to provide additional support. If you don’t know your bra size, it’s a wise idea to measure before shopping. You can find instructions on how to do this online, or you can visit a department store that offers free bra measurements.
If you’re buying a bra online, it’s helpful to read customer reviews to determine whether the bra fits true to size or has a tendency to run large or small. You may want to choose a size up or down from your normal size based on what others have to say about the fit.
Support
The whole point of wearing a strapless bra is support, so this should be a top priority when selecting one. This is especially true for women with large busts. Choosing a properly fitting bra will help, but there are additional considerations that impact how much support a strapless bra will provide.
The width of the band is key in how supportive the strapless bra will be, with a wider band offering more support. Bras with underwire in the cups can also provide additional support, though some women don’t find this type of bra to be comfortable.
Features
Padding: Some strapless bras include padding in the cups to help push your breasts up and together, while others don’t have any padding at all. This is more of a matter of personal preference, and it should not take priority over the fit and support the bra provides. However, it may help you to decide if you are struggling to choose between a few different strapless bras.
Anti-slip lining: To help combat the slipping problem, some strapless bras employ an anti-slip silicone lining, either along the top of the cup or on the entire inside. The lining helps keep your strapless bra in place so you don’t need to worry about it sliding down throughout the day.
Optional straps: If you don’t like the idea of purchasing a strapless bra, you may find a convertible bra more appealing. Convertible bras come with detachable straps that can be arranged in different ways so they can fit under virtually any top or dress. Convertible bras may be the smarter choice if you don’t wear strapless bras often or if you plan to wear a dress or shirt that has only one sleeve. However, if you go this route, you’ll need to take extra care not to lose the bra straps, because they can detach easily.
Style: Think about the types of dresses or tops you plan to wear with the strapless bra and be sure the bra you choose has a neckline that will remain hidden. For example, some bras have a straight neckline, which will stick out if your top has a sweetheart neckline. Go with a strapless bra that also has a sweetheart neckline if you want the bra to remain invisible.
On the other hand, there are lacy bandeau-style strapless bras that are meant to stick out a little. One of these may be the better choice if you’re interested in something you can wear under a tank top or a button-down shirt to give you a little extra flair.
Color: A nude bra is the most versatile choice if you want your strapless bra to remain hidden — it’s designed to blend in with your natural skin tone so it will go unnoticed under your dress or shirt. However, there may be times when a different color may suit your outfit. For example, if you’re going with a bandeau-style strapless bra that’s meant to be seen, you may prefer to have a number of different colors to choose from.
Washing instructions: It’s crucial to check the label on your strapless bra to see if there are any special washing instructions. Some may need to be hand washed or air dried to keep them in good condition. Follow all manufacturer instructions carefully in order to extend the life of your strapless bra.
Expert Tip
STAFF
BestReviews
Strapless bra prices
Strapless bras range in price from $10 to over $100, with most falling within the $20 to $40 price range. You may need to pay a little more if your bra size is much larger or smaller than what you normally find in stores.
There may also be some variance in price based on the bra’s color, with neutral colors typically costing less than more vibrant colors. However, this all depends on the manufacturer.
Tips
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Don’t use any oils, creams, or powders on your chest when you plan to wear the strapless bra. This will help it to stay in place better.
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Women with larger busts should choose a strapless bra with an extra-wide band that has at least three clasps in the back to provide additional support.
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Even if your strapless bra says it can be washed in the washing machine, it will probably last you much longer if you hand wash it.
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Choose strapless dresses and tops that are tight around the waist to help prevent your strapless bra from sliding down.
Other products we considered
Full-figured women should check out the Vanity Fair Women’s Beauty Strapless Underwire Bra. It’s available in four colors and a variety of sizes up to 44DD. The fabric is durable and the band is extra wide to offer maximum support. Straps are included for those who prefer to wear this as a normal bra. Many women report that this is the first strapless bra they’ve found that actually stays in place.
If you want something a little more stylish than your basic nude strapless bra, consider the DELIMIRA Women’s Floral Jacquard Non-Padded Underwire Minimizer Strapless Bra. This lacy strapless bra is not only functional but also attractive, and it’s available in three colors. There’s no underwire or padding, so it’s a smart choice for those who find those features uncomfortable. It has a non-slip silicone lining and optional straps for when you want to wear it like a regular bra.
FAQ
Q. How tight should the band be?
A. A strapless bra band should be as snug as possible without digging into your body and causing you pain. A tight fit helps the bra to stay in place without sliding down.
Q. Can I wear my strapless bra as a regular bra?
A. Yes, but you may find it more comfortable to wear a bra with straps unless your top does not allow it. Some strapless bras include straps in case you do want to wear them for everyday use.
Q. What’s the difference between a convertible bra and a strapless bra?
A. Convertible bras include straps that can be worn in a number of different ways so they can fit under almost any outfit. You can also wear them without the straps when you need a strapless bra, but they may not provide as much support as a bra that was specifically designed to be worn strapless.
