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The style set is currently obsessed with showing some décolletage, with strapless styles and sweetheart cuts all making their mark. The best thing about this fashion moment? It’s super easy to nail and only requires one accessory — a bandeau bra.
Along with being a comfortable, wireless bra option, bandeaus are the perfect accompaniment for layering underneath summer dresses that are strapless, backless, or low-cut. You can also utilize the strapless bra in your year-round wardrobe for lounging, everyday wear, or even low-intensity workouts if you don’t care for constricting sports bras. But if you haven’t bought a bandeau since you were a teenager (relatable), you may need a refresher on what actually constitutes a bandeau bra (as opposed to a strapless or sports bra).
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“A bandeau bra is usually just one piece of fabric, a ‘band’ around the bust,” explains Silvia Campello, VP of Finance and Planning for Cosabella. “Bandeaus are typically pull-on style with no hook and eye back closure and are wireless, designed for easy and comfortable wear.”
To help you cut down on your screen time, we did all the searching for you and found the best bandeau bras, no matter if you need a bra for large busts or a bra for small busts.
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Top Bandeau Bras for 2023
- Best Lace Style: Cosabella Never Say Never Flirtie Bandeau Bra
- Best for Large Busts: Cosabella Free-Cut Micro Curvy Bandeau
- Best with Support: Ahh by Rhonda Shear Seamless Underwire Bandeau
- Best Value Pack: Boao Padded Strapless Bandeau Pack
- Best Ribbed Style: Free People Amelia Bandeau Bra
- Best Seamless Style: Skims Fits Everybody Bandeau Bra
- Best with Straps: Parade Convertible Bandeau Bra
- Best for Plus-Size: Torrid Longline Bandeau With 4-Way Stretch
- Best for Sports: Gymshark Bandeau Sports Bra
- Best with Back Detailing: Commando Double Take Bandeau
- Best Luxury Style: Fleur du Mal Bandeau Bra
- Best for Lounging: Calvin Klein Womens CK One Mesh Unlined Wireless Bandeau
- Most Fashionable: Good American Leather Bandeau
- Aerie Smoothez Bandeau Bralette
- Lively No-Wire Strapless Bra Bundle
- Hanky Panky Signature Lace Lined Bandeau Bralette
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Cosabella Never Say Never Flirtie Bandeau Bra
Best Lace Bandeau
- Sizes: XS-XL (28A-38D), also available in Curvy Sizes (30DD – 40H)
- Materials: Made of soft, stretch scalloped lace
- Features: Silicone lining to prevent slippage
If you’re looking for a lace bandeau that you can easily style under dresses or low-cut blouses, Cosabella’s Never Say Never Flirtie Bandeau is a best-seller for a reason. The brand’s soft, stretch Italian lace (which is made in Italy) is comfortable and makes for a pretty detail when visible — and it’s available in a range of neutral and bright colors to choose from. It features a silicone lining to prevent any slippage, and side boning for extra support. The top-rated style is also available in Curvy Sizes, which range from a 30DD-40H.
What reviewers say: “This was a great purchase. Very comfortable, soft and no adjusting needed.”
Courtesy of Cosabella
Cosabella Free-Cut Micro Curvy Bandeau
Best Bandeau for Large Busts
- Sizes: XS-XL (30DD – 40H)
- Materials: 80% Polyamide, 20% Elastane
- Features: Non-padded cups lined with power mesh for extra support
For those with large breasts looking for a bandeau, Campello recommends Cosabella’s Free-Cut Micro Curvy Bandeau as the perfect everyday bra. The seamless, lightweight design is made of microfiber that gives that “no-bra feeling.” And this style has all the design details that those with a larger chest need to feel supported, including non-padded cups lined with power mesh, a supportive band under the bust, side boning, and silicone non-slip grips to avoid any slippage. It’s available in black and neutral colorways.
Courtesy of Cosabella
Ahh by Rhonda Shear Seamless Underwire Bandeau
Best Bandeau with Support
- Sizes: XS-3X
- Features: Underwire for additional support
To prevent the uniboob look that bandeau bras can sometimes cause, this Rhonda Shear style features underwire support that doesn’t sacrifice comfort. The cinched, knit-in area between the cups helps lift and define the breasts while still providing a soft fabric feel.
What reviewers say: “I have NEVER found a bandeau to work for my 34DDD bust. The band is always gigantic or the boob area is entirely too small, it just never works. I was SO skeptical ordering a medium. I was like there’s no way in h*ll this will work for me. WRONG. It’s great. Seriously. It has such stretch and the underwire actually fits too. It won’t give you much lift, but it does separate and doesn’t squish them to the sides. The band is REALLY stretchy and I have zero issues with it falling down. The fabric is thin so it won’t help you much if it’s ahem, cold. I still love it though. I’ll be ordering in every color.”
Courtesy of Ahh by Rhonda Shear
Boao Padded Strapless Bandeau Pack
Best Bandeau Value Pack
- Sizes: S-3XL
- Colorways: Comes in assorted packs of three
- Features: Removable padding
If you want to stock up on bandeaus, this assorted Boao pack is one of the highest-rated options on Amazon. Available in assorted packs of three (you can choose between six different packs of color varieties), these bandeau bras are made of super-soft, seamless fabric that molds to your body. Reviewers with larger breasts rave that these offer the amount of support they needed from a bandeau, but had trouble finding.
What reviewers say: “I’ve ordered a few different styles of these and this brand is the first one that I can actually use the pads with. I’m a larger woman with larger “girls” and all the other brands would have pads made for much smaller breasts and the pad would look like a weird tiny pita bread outline under your shirt. This brand is the FIRST one that actually took the time to make the pad a size that would correlate to the actual size of the bra that was ordered. Yay! These are not supportive bras but they aren’t meant to be. They are tube tops types which is great if you need something to wear that’s for modestly and comfort under a shirt rather than support. If you want support go with an uncomfortable underwire strapless bra.”
Courtesy of Boao
Free People Amelia Bandeau Bra
Best Ribbed Bandeau
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Material: Ribbed nylon/spandex blend
Free People’s ribbed bandeau is versatile for layering underneath clothes or wearing on its own as a bandeau top. Made of a nylon and spandex blend, the stretch ribbed fabric is flattering while adding some texture to any look. It’s available in six colors including white, gray, brown, pink, and green. And with a slightly elongated fit, it’s easy for doubling as a tube top in the summer.
Courtesy of Free People
Skims Fits Everybody Bandeau Bra
Best Seamless Bandeau
- Sizes: XXS-4X
- Available in 9 nude shade, along with a range of colors
- Smoothing stretch fabric made of polyamide and elastane
Kim Kardashian’s Skims’ Fits Everybody collection is an internet favorite for its buttery soft fabrics with smoothing technology, and this bandeau bra is proof of that. With nearly 2K ratings on the Skims website alone, this top-rated bandeau is beloved for its inclusive sizes (which go up to a 4X) and shade range (which offers nine skin tone options, as well as neutral and bright colors). One reviewer writes, “I am a 40DD and my boobs fit into this bandeau — my boobs don’t weigh it down and it fits better than a strapless underwire bra does. Which is a really strong statement. I don’t have to pull it up constantly, it keeps my girls high and dry. I literally can not wait till it restocks so i can buy 1 in every freaking color.” The seamless style is made of a smoothing stretch fabric that stays in place while supporting the bust. Though some reviewers with large chests do note that it does flatten your chest a bit.
Courtesy of Skims
Parade Convertible Bandeau Bra
Best Bandeau with Straps
- Sizes: XS-3XL
- Features: Removable and convertible straps that can be worn racerback style, halter style, or strapless, breathable mesh panel
- Materials: Recycled nylon and spandex
Instagram-favorite underwear brand Parade also makes some pretty great bras. Case in point: this Convertible Bandeau Bra that features removable straps that can be worn racerback style, halter style, or strapless. Available in a wide range of colors and sizes XS-3XL, this bandeau can be worn for lounging, low-impact workouts, or underneath a dress. Though several reviews note there are some issues with slippage on this one, so it may be best to wear with the straps if you need extra support.
What reviewers say: “Comfortable fit, looks amazing on its own and under clothing. The different strap options are perfect for different looks.”
Courtesy of Parade
Torrid Longline Bandeau With 4-Way Stretch
Best Plus-Size Bandeau
- Sizes: M-6X
- Features: Adjustable, removable straps
- Materials: Made of four-way stretch lace
Torrid’s Longline Bandeau Bra is made of a four-way stretch that’s comfortable and ultra-soft. The removable, adjustable straps allow you to tailor the bandeau to whatever outfit you’re wearing with the option of extra support. It also features removable cups and a mesh lining that’s still breathable. Several reviews also note that it can be worn as a crop top too.
What reviewers say: “I bought this specifically to wear as a strapless [bra] without the pain or hassle of underwire, this worked out amazingly! Feels comfortable and fitting. Didn’t slip down and I’m top heavy so strapless is hard to do.”
Courtesy of Torrid
Gymshark Bandeau Sports Bra
Best Bandeau Sports Bra
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Features: Adjustable straps and removable padding
- Best for: Low-impact workouts
If you’re looking for a bandeau bra that can withstand low-impact workouts, try Gymshark’s Bandeau Sports Bra. The fitness essential features adjustable straps and removable padding for a better fit and structure you can customize. Made of a polyester and elastane blend, the stretchy style offers support and comfort for walks, yoga, or stretching.
What reviewers say: “So soft and comfortable! I play competitive volleyball and this sports bra lets me move freely without pinching or the material sliding around and making me readjust the fit. I love it!”
Courtesy of Gymshark
Commando Double Take Bandeau
Best Bandeau with Back Detailing
- Size range: S-L
- Colorways: Black, Mocha, Carmel, Ivory
- Materials: Microfiber front with sheer lace back
If you’re looking for a bandeau to pair with a backless dress or top, Commando’s Double Take style was practically made for that. In the front, a soft, raw-edge microfiber provides all the comfort and support. And in the back, a sheer scalloped-lace fabric adds a pretty design detail.
What reviewers say: “Let me start by saying I have yet to find a strapless bra that is perfectly comfy. That said, this one is the closest I’ve found. Fabric is light (no lining, so consider the top you wear it with — headlights, ahem!), and the stretch isn’t binding anywhere.”
Courtesy of Free People
Fleur du Mal Bandeau Bra
Best Luxury Bandeau
- Sizes: S-L
- Features: Bone detailing in the front, lace in the back
It’s no surprise Fleur du Mal has you covered for a luxe, splurge-worthy bandeau. The brand’s Charlotte Bandeau Bra features a sweetheart neckline with boning for extra support and shape. In the back, the band is made of a pretty lace detailing. And yes, there is a matching pair of lace underwear to really complete the lingerie look.
What reviewers say: “This bra has become a wardrobe staple for me! It has great hold and lift (no slipping). It does not open in back, so you have to pull it on over your head, but it slides perfectly into place. Works great as outerwear too with a jacket.”
Courtesy of Fleur du Mal
Calvin Klein Womens CK One Mesh Unlined Wireless Bandeau
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Materials: Stretchy knit fabric
Some days you just want to be super cozy and chill, and that’s when this Calvin Klein bandeau comes in handy. Whether you’re lounging around the house, running errands, or wanting to look sporty without actually being sporty, this cozy knit bandeau is a must. It features an ultra-sleek microfiber material for a smooth finish and an exceptional performance elasticized logo band that will ensure it stays in place. Complete the look with cute and comfortable jogger.
Good American Leather Bandeau
Best Fashion Bandeau
- Sizes: 0-8 (XS-5XL)
- Materials: Faux leather
For a bandeau that’s more fashion than function, Good American’s faux Leather Bandeau is ready to serve some looks. Style this statement bandeau underneath a blazer for a night out, and you’re sure to get all the compliments. The brand’s faux leather fabric is made of lightweight, breathable, and buttery soft polyurethane for comfortable wear.
What reviewers say: “Best buy! Great fit, stays up, and works so well with so many different looks from day to night.”
Courtesy of Good American
Aerie Smoothez Bandeau Bralette
- Sizes: XXS-XL
- Colors: Sand, True Black
- Materials: 70% Nylon, 30% Lycra
- Features: Removable padding
If your biggest concern is that your bandeau bra always slides down, Aerie’s Smoothez Bralette is made for you. It consists of a stretchy, super smooth fabric with a grip along the inside, ensuring it doesn’t slide down. It also features removable padding, giving you different options on how you would like to wear it.
What reviewers say: “This is the most comfortable Bandaue bra I’ve ever tried! I tried miscellaneous wired and wireless bandaue bras from competitors & random discount stores but nothing compares to this one! Soft, comfortable, smooth & seamless fabric. With a rubber-type grip material all along the back. However occasional adjusting is necessary as there’s none of that grip material in the front, which would’ve helped it not slipping down too much. I wore this bra unbothered all at Disney! Definitely recommend!”
Lively No-Wire Strapless Bra Bundle
- Sizes: 32A-38DDD
- Colors: Jet black/toasted almond
- Materials: 85% Nylon, 15% Spandex
- Features: Adjustable, removable straps, Adjustable band with 3-level hook-and-eye closure for that perfect “you fit”
Lively’s No-Wire Strapless Bra Bundle includes the most supportive and full-coverage bandeau bras that still allow for some cleavage. They feature lightly padded foam cups and boning at the sides of the bra for extra structure and support. The best part is the no-slip strip at the top of the cups, which helps them to stay in place all day long. For a limited time, save 20% on these flexible bras that make getting dressed easier.
What reviewers say: “Oh my gosh, I haven’t wore my new bra all day but just the little time I have I love them! They got here super fast, I wanna say less than 5 days. They do not shift, perfect sizing. I have always ordered mine of vs but I needed a strapless that would actually stay up. Found one, plus their super cute!”
Hanky Panky Signature Laced Lined Bralette
- Sizes: XS-L
- Colors: Chai, Black
- Materials: 100% Nylon
- Features: Elastic around the top and bottom for a super comfortable fit
When it comes to intimates, Hanky Panky will never let you down. Its Signature Laced Lined Bralette is the perfect example and a best-seller for a good reason. It features a stretch-lace fabric for comfort and flexibility and scalloped trims for an aesthetically-pleasing finish. You’ll feel supported and stylish whether you wear it with high-waisted jeans and an oversized blazer or under a strapless top with leather pants.
What reviewers say: “No complaints – comfortable and stays up. Got an XS, usual size for HP bralettes – 32B.”
What Is a Bandeau Bra: Bandeau Bra vs Strapless Bra
A bandeau bra is a strapless bra silhouette that usually features a stretchy fabric with a band on top and bottom for support. These bras work great with strapless tops and dresses or off-shoulder tops and dresses. Plus, they provide much-needed coverage without any bra straps showing.
So how does a bandeau bra differ from a stapless bra? “A strapless bra has an underwire and a back hook and eye closure — just like a bra, without the straps,” says Campello. Thus, bandeau bras can easily be slipped on either over the head or from the feet upward. Additionally, bandeau bras usually come with removable padding and no underwire, unlike strapless bras.
How to Know Your Perfect Bandeau Bra Size
“Support in a bandeau comes from the band, so it is key that you get the right size so you have adequate support,” says Campello. She advises measuring your bust when you’re not wearing any other sports bra, minimizer bra, or padded bra. To ensure you’re holding the measuring tape parallel to the floor, Campello recommends having a friend or significant other help you (if you do measure on your own, make sure to look into a mirror while you’re measuring).
Here are Campello’s tips for measuring your bandeau bra size:
- Wrap a measuring tape snugly around your rib cage, underneath your bust. Measure in inches and round up to the nearest whole number.
- Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust and round to the nearest whole number
- Subtract your band size from your cup size. Count each inch of differences as one cup size.
How to Find the Best Bandeau Bra
- Look for slip-proof design details: “Bandeaus with side boning help it stay up and add support,” Campello says. “Silicone grips at the top and bottom help the bandeau stay in place. Invest in quality styles that are comfortable and supportive.”
- Large busts need extra support: If you have a larger chest, Campello recommends looking for “double layer fabrics and power mesh lining for added support.”
- Determine your best size: Even if you’re buying a wireless style, Campello advises you still measure yourself and follow the brand’s size chart to get your best fitting bandeau. If it’s too big, you’ll have constant slippage and won’t get the support you need. And if it’s too small, it’ll be too constricting or cause your breasts to spill over the top. For Campello’s tips on how to measure to determine your bandeau bra size, scroll to the bottom of this story.
- Determine how you plan to wear it: If you’re looking for a bandeau to layer under summer tanks or linen dresses, go for a lightweight fabric that won’t slip. If you want the bandeau to be visible, look for design elements like lace or scallop detailing that are meant to be shown off with a backless or low-cut style. If you want something with more support, make sure you go for a bandeau with padding or lining that has removable straps.
Meet the Expert
Silvia Campello is the VP of Finance and Planning for Cosabella. Founded in 1983 by husband and wife duo Valeria and Ugo Campello, Cosabella’s range of luxurious intimates are all made in Italy. Known for its top-rated underwear and bra styles, the brand recently launched new micro-cut bandeaus as its most recent bandeau bra style offering.
Meet the Authors
Lauren Alexis Fisher is a fashion writer and editor in New York with nearly a decade of experience in the fashion industry. She was previously the digital market editor at Harper’s Bazaar, where she researched and wrote fashion and trend stories on everything from apparel to the best bras and lingerie. She currently contributes to publications including WWD, Cosmopolitan, and Bustle, where she highlights all the best fashion buys online. Fisher wrote the initial version of this bandeau bra story, which was published in 2022.
Nikki Chwatt is the Style Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD, where she writes and edits stories on the latest clothing and shoe trends. She is at the forefront of all consumer trends with a keen eye for the latest, greatest, and classics of what people wear, buy, and love. As a female, she is always searching for the best bras since there are so many that suit different occasions and outfits. Chwatt has updated this best bandeau bras story for 2023 with the latest product releases and more expert shopping advice.