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Picture this: you’ve found the perfect dress or top, but your bra straps are ruining the polished effect. Thankfully, the best strapless bras can lift, smooth, sculpt, shape, and, most importantly, stay up so you can feel secure and polished in your favorite outfit.
“Racerback tops, halter tops, strapless tops, one-shoulder tops, cut-out tops, camisole tops, tube tops…all of these styles look better with a strapless bra that directs attention to where it should be — on the top itself, not on your bra,” says Sapna Palep, the Co-CEO of Journelle. Celebrity stylist Jacqueline Zenere, who works with Ashley Benson and Olivia Palermo, agrees. “There isn’t anything worse when the appearance of underpinnings breaks up a gorgeous look.”
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Though bandeau bras are great, they’re not your only option — strapless bras have come a long way over the years. “Today’s options often have removable straps and/or convertible straps so that you can make them a multi-purpose bra solution,” Palep notes. They’re also more comfortable, thanks to added details. “Often silicone grips are added to improve staying power, and side boning is sometimes added for more support,” Palep adds. Not only are strapless bras an obvious choice for shoulder-baring garments, but they’re also incredibly flattering. In fact, Zenere calls them “a go-to when décolletage is taking center stage in a look.”
The good news is it’s never been easier to find a strapless bra for every body type. To fast-track you to the best strapless bras, we’ve done the hard work and research for you. So, keep reading to find the best strapless bras that don’t skimp on support or comfortability.
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Related:
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Best Push-Up Bras
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Best Bras for Large Busts
Best Bralettes
Top Strapless Bras for Women of 2023
- Best Overall: Savage X Fenty Strapless Bra
- ThirdLove 24/7 Strapless Bra
- Best for Small Chest: Intimissimi Gioia Bandeau Bra
- La Perla Lycra Strapless Brassiere With Chantilly Lace
- Best Wireless Bra: Soma Intimates Enbliss Wireless Stay Put Multi-Way Strapless Bra
- Best for Sports: Lively The Smooth Strapless Bundle
- Best Non-Molded Strapless Bra: Wacoal Halo Lace Convertible Underwire Bra
- Best Convertible: Victoria’s Secret Body by Victoria Lightly-Lined Strapless Bra
- Best Lace Bra: Cosabella Sicilia Strapless Bra
- Best Lace Bandeau for Small Breasts: Hanky Panky Signature Lace Bandeau Bralette
- Best Bandeau: Skims Fits Everbody Bandeau Bra
- Best for Large Breasts: Wacoal Red Carpet Strapless Underwire Bra
- Best for Full Figure: Elomi Smooth Full Figure Strapless Underwire Bra
- Best Sticky Bra: NuBra Silicone 3D Bra Cups
- Best to Wear With Plunging Necklines: Fashion Forms Seamless U-Plunge Bra
- Best for Lounging: Cosabella Never Say Never Curvy Flirtie Bandeau Bra
- Best Convertible, Runner-Up: Felina Body Luxe Convertible Strapless Underwire Contour Bra
- Best Non-Padded: Skims Mesh Strapless Underwire Bra
- Best Silicone Stickies: Fashion Forms Self-Adhesive Backless Strapless Bra
- Best Minimizer: Commando Double Take Bandeau
- Also Consider Best Bandeau: Free People Nina Neo Bandeau
- Best Strapless Bodysuit: Spanx Suit Your Fancy Strapless Cupped Mid-Thigh Bodysuit
- Natori Bliss Perfection Strapless Contour Underwire Bra
- Best Breast Tape: Brassybra Second Skin Invisible Adhesive Bra
- Best Lightly Padded: Lively The No-Wire Strapless Bra
- Best Backless: Fashion Forms Lift It Up Plunge Backless/Strapless Adhesive Bra
Savage x Fenty Strapless Bra
Best Strapless Bra Overall
- Size range: 30A to 44DD
- Colorways: Honey Butter Nude, Black Caviar, Brown Sugar Nude, Tobacco Nude
- Materials: 89% Nylon, 11% Spandex
- Special features: Hook-and-eye back closure; rose gold tone hardware
- Pros: Molded foam cups
- Cons: Runs small
- Retailer availability: Amazon, Savagexfenty.com
This high-shine neutral option has over 400 glowing reviews, and we wouldn’t expect anything less from Rihanna’s brand. This underwire bra has a smooth feel that hugs your curves and is size inclusive (it’s offered in everything from 30A to 44DD). It’s even a top pick to wear under a wedding gown or wedding guest dress. Rest easy knowing the molded foam cups offer ample nipple coverage and the silicone lining on the interior top and bottom ensure zero slippage.
What reviewers say: “If you’re big-breasted, this is a must,” raves one shopper. “It stays up no matter what movement you’re doing (bending, stretching, cleaning, relaxing) and doesn’t budge.”
Related: Best Bras on Amazon
ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Strapless Bra
- Size range: 32AA to 44H
- Colorways: Taupe, Black
- Materials: Nylon/spandex
- Special features: Flexible nickel-free wires
- Pros: Smoothing, double layer back for zero lines
- Cons: Expensive
- Retailer availability: ThirdLove
ThirdLove’s 24/7 Classic Strapless Bra was given its name for a good reason. The fit is secure and comfortable, and thanks to the no-slip silicone edges, this strapless comfortably stays in place for as long as one chooses to wear it. It’s made of a nylon and spandex blend and has flexible nickel-free wires and gold alloy hardware. Many shoppers love how this bra has a foam padded hook and eye closure and a tagless printed label that’s scratch-free.
What reviewers say: “This bra is very comfy! I bought both the nude and black colors. This bra provides all the support I need but at the same time, I can barely feel it. Throughout the day, I never become aware of any pinching, or tightness. No adjustments needed throughout the day.”
Intimissimi Gioia Bandeau Bra
Best Strapless Bra for Small Chest
- Size range: 32B to 38D
- Colorways: Dark Beige, Medium Beige, Silk Pink, Soft Beige, Black
- Materials: 84 % Polyamide, 16 % Elastane
- Pros: Great for enhancing cleavage
- Cons: Not best for big busts
- Retailer availability: Intimissimi
Intimissimi’s Gioia Bandeau Bra is a do-it-all strapless bra. Since it has convertible straps, it makes a great purchase for those who rarely find themselves needing a strapless bra but still want to get a lot of wear out of a purchase. It has a super-padded unwired bandeau bra in microfiber and cotton-lined cups.
La Perla Lycra Strapless Brassiere With Chantilly Lace
- Size range: 32A to 38DD
- Colorways: Black, white, nude
- Materials: LYCRA Beauty, Chantilly Lace
- Special features: Made in Italy
- Pros: Can double as a top
- Cons: Pricey
- Retailer Availability: La Perla
Although a splurge, La Perla’s Lycra Strapless Brassiere With Chantilly Lace makes a stylish addition to any wardrobe. The best part is that it can be worn under a flowy tank top or alone as a fashionable summer top. It has smooth, lightly lined cups and a Chantilly lace hem. What’s more, it has a silicone band that ensures it stays and place and detachable straps in case you need more support.
Soma Intimates Enbliss Wireless Stay Put Multi-Way Strapless Bra
Best Wireless Strapless Bra
- Size range: 32A to 42G
- Colorways: Pale Sand, Warm Amber, Warm Sienna, Party Pink, Black
- Materials: 71% nylon, 29% spandex
- Special features: Removable, adjustable straps so you can wear it 5 ways: strapless, halter, crisscross back, traditional, and one shoulder.
- Pros: Wireless yet still supportive
- Cons: Band fits tight
- Retailer Availability: Soma Intimates
A bra that’s strapless and wireless can be hard to find, but thanks to Soma Intimates, you can have the best of both worlds. This Enbliss Wireless Bra has contoured cups that give your chest a naturally lifted shape. The inside of the bra has a sticky texture that provides extra grip, while the smooth, seamless design sits nicely under all kinds of clothing. The removable, adjustable straps that you can wear five ways are what make shoppers re-purchase it time and time again.
What reviewers say: “I’m a 32dd and I have always struggled to find a strapless bra that actually works, and isn’t horribly uncomfortable. I feel like I’ve found a unicorn with this bra! It works brilliantly and is so comfortable, both with and without straps.”
Lively The Smooth Strapless Bundle
Best Strapless Bra for Sports
- Size range: 32A to 38DD
- Colorways: Jet black/toasted almond
- Materials: 85% Nylon, 15% Spandex
- Special features: Hook-and-eye back closure; rose gold tone hardware
- Pros: Flexible underwire
- Cons: Color looks different in person than online
- Retailer availability: Lively
This strapless bundle from Lively comes highly recommended by Zenere. The set has a nude and black strapless bra of the same design. Each has a classic balconette shape with lightly padded, smooth cups for a fit that feels and looks great under your favorite tees. Many reviewers laud the style’s wide band and supportive boning at the sides, which keeps the girls lifted and in place. A few reviewers even rave this bra was supportive enough for them to wear while playing sports, in lieu of an actual sports bra. Pro tip: If you’re between band sizes, size up.
What reviewers say: “I was in desperate need of a new strapless bra And somehow stumbled across this site. After reading many of the reviews I decided to try this and the no wire strapless. I ordered two of each style, one black and one tan. As soon as I tried this one on I couldn’t believe that what a perfect fit this was. True to size and unbelievable comfortable!!! I will definitely be buying a third color!”
Related:
Best Sports Bras
Best High-Impact Sports Bras
Wacoal Halo Lace Convertible Underwire Bra
Best Non-Molded Strapless Bra
- Size range: 32B to 40DD
- Colorways: Sand, Black
- Materials: 82% nylon, 18% spandex
- Special features: Hook-and-eye back closure; Underwire cups and boned side seams
- Pros: Nonslip rubber binding
- Cons: Runs small
- Retailer Availability: Saks Fifth Avenue, Shopbop, Amazon, Wacoal, Nordstrom
This romantic lace bra from Wacoal has a robust online following. Many reviewers write about the super-soft brushed interior fabric and how comfortable it feels on bare skin. They also note how well the silicone band on the top helps to keep the bra in place for hours. Just note: It has non-molded cups and is not a pushup bra. Wacoal’s bras run tight, so a lot of reviewers recommend sizing up.
What reviewers say: “If you don’t like the natural shape of your boobs under clothes, don’t get it, but if you do, it’s one of the best strapless bras for bigger girls,” shares one buyer.”
Victoria’s Secret Body by Victoria Lightly-Lined Strapless Bra
Best Convertible Strapless Bra
- Size range: 30A to 40G
- Colorways: Caramel, Marzipan, Beige, Mousse, Toffee, Black, Praline, White
- Materials: 67% Recycled Polyamide, 33% Elastane
- Special features: Partly made with recycled polyamide
- Pros: Can be worn classic, halter, crossback, one-strap or strapless
- Cons: Runs small
- Retailer Availability: Victoria’s Secret
In addition to being strapless, this Victoria’s Secret bra can be worn in a classic, halter, crossback, or one-strap style. The super soft material and light memory fit lining look great under any fabric. In fact, this smooth finish bra is the perfect option to wear under warm-weather clothing and can even pass for a cami under very low-cut shirts.
What reviewers say: “I like that it can be worn as a regular bra, which makes it ideal for trips. You can wear it normal style as needed, and convert it later for special occasions.”
Cosabella Sicilia Strapless Bra
Best Lace Strapless Bra
- Size range: 32B to 36D
- Colorways: Canvas, Mandorla, Vino/India
- Materials: Lace is 100% polyamide, body is 68% polyamide, 32% elastane
- Pros: Removable, adjustable straps.
- Cons: Best for small busts
- Retailer Availability: Cosabella
With sexy, underwire bra sales surging, there’s no better time than now to get your hands on a strapless bra that screams romantic and classy. This Italian-made underwire lace bra from Cosabella is the perfect example. “It has eyelash trim detailing which can peek out from your top or be worn under a sheer top,” Palep notes. It feels right that a bra this beautiful is meant to be seen. Just note that it works best for smaller busts, as it’s not particularly supportive, and the sizing is limited.
Hanky Panky Signature Lace Bandeau Bralette
Best Lace Bandeau for Small Breasts
- Size range: XS to L
- Colorways: White, Black, Chai
- Materials: 100% Nylon
- Pros: Well-made
- Cons: Not the most supportive
- Retailer Availability: Hanky Panky, Nordstrom, Net-A-Porter, Amazon
This sexy lace bralette by Hanky Panky is most ideal for small breasts. Although the brand calls the soft cups lightly supportive, reviewers note otherwise. Many suggest wearing it at home when you want to feel cute. If you can go without support, the style is long enough to double as a top — perhaps layered under a pantsuit for a night out. It’s made of Hanky Panky’s signature stretch-lace fabric that feels heavenly against skin. Whether you go with the beige or black hue, it’s a classic staple you can reach for over and over again.
What reviewers say: “Perfect fit – very comfortable to wear!”
Courtesy of Amazon
Skims Fits Everbody Bandeau Bra
Best Bandeau Strapless Bra
- Size range: XXS to 4X
- Colorways: Over 5 limited edition shades and over 7 classic shades
- Materials: 76% Polyamide / 24% Elastane
- Special features: Max-Stretch Technology
- Pros: Lightweight
- Cons: Runs small
- Retailer availability: Skims, Nordstrom
Kim Kardashian’s Skims brand can do no wrong, and this Fits Everybody strapless bandeau bra is another winner in the lineup. The soft buttery fabric is made of Max-Stretch technology that hugs your curves tightly, without uncomfortably squeezing, to offer a subtle lift. The pullover style is also seamless, so the smoothing fabric lays flat underneath the clothes. It comes in nine nude tones as well as a few colorful seasonal options to spice up your underwear drawer.
What reviewers say: “I am a 40DD and…my boobs don’t weigh it down. It fits better than a strapless underwire bra does.”
Courtesy of Skims
Wacoal Red Carpet Strapless Underwire Bra
Best Strapless Bra for Large Breasts
- Size range: 32C to 44G
- Colorways: Sand, Black, Roebuck, Brush, Peca
- Materials: 91% polyamide, 9% spandex
- Pros: Non-slip rubber binding at edges
- Cons: Runs small
- Retailer availability: Amazon, Wacoal, Nordstrom, Shopbop
Wacoal calls this undergarment the Red Carpet strapless bra, and it’s not hard to see why. The 91% nylon bra is smooth and virtually invisible under clothing thanks, in part, to the seamless cups. Ideal for plus-size women, it has a supportive underwire that holds up all larger cup sizes. Purchasers also praise the side boning that keeps the bra from collapsing, as well as the four back clasps, which help it feel very secure and prevent it from slipping down.
What reviewers say: “It was true to size, held everything in its proper place, and didn’t shift over the course of the day and night (including dancing).”
Courtesy of Amazon
Elomi Smooth Full Figure Strapless Underwire Bra
Best Strapless Bra for Full Figure
- Size range: 32GG to 44J
- Colorways: Black, Sahara
- Materials: 38% Polyester, 37% Nylon, 25% Elastane
- Pros: Non-slip rubber binding at edges
- Cons: Runs small
- Retailer availability: Bare Necessities, Nordstrom, Victoria’s Secret
Here is another solid pick for the well-endowed. Available in sizes 32GG to 44FF, this Elomi bra is made of a smooth fabric that can be worn under thinner tops with no detection and has a whopping four hook-and-eye closure system on the backside. Not only are the molded cups firm and sturdy, but reviewers also note how they offer a little lift as well.
What reviewers say: “As a 34HH, this bra feels amazingly supportive,” writes one shopper. “My boobs felt completely held in place. I can’t believe I can finally wear tank tops and spaghetti straps.”
NuBra Silicone 3D Bra Cups
Best Strapless Sticky Bra
- Size range: A to D
- Colorways: Pale Peach
- Materials: 100% polyurethane
- Pros: Backless
- Cons: Not supportive
- Retailer availability: Shopbop, Revolve
If the occasion calls for a strapless, low-cut, backless dress, NuBra’s sticky silicone bra is an excellent solution. Its cup sizes are a bit limited (A to D), but that stands to reason since this bra is not highlighted for being supportive. The style is a top seller at Revolve, often purchased with the site’s slew of low-cut cocktail dresses. It’s made with medical-grade adhesive, so you don’t have to worry about it moving around. While it’s on the expensive side priced at $65, it also has the benefit of being washable and reusable.
Courtesy of Revolve
Fashion Forms Seamless U-Plunge Bra
Best Strapless Bra to Wear With Plunging Necklines
- Size range: A to D
- Colorways: Almond, Black
- Materials: 84% nylon/16% elastane
- Pros: Reusable
- Cons: Silicone adhesive
- Retailer availability: Shopbop, Bloomingdales, Net-A-Porter
Fashion Forms is one brand celeb stylist Zenere points to as a staple in her kit. Complete with removable straps, this U-Plunge bra is perfect for any plunging neckline moment. And coming in sizes 34A to 38D, it accommodates a range of cup sizes. The padded cups sculpt and define the bust and the tight seamless construction ensures edges will disappear under the most curve-hugging of gowns. Should you choose, you can also wear the straps in a halter or cross-over manner.
Courtesy of Shopbop
Cosabella Never Say Never Curvy Flirtie Bandeau Bra
Best Strapless Bra for Lounging
- Size range: XS to XL
- Colorways: Black, Himalayan Sky, Sette, and five other colors
- Materials: 93% Polyamide, 7% Elastane
- Pros: Pull-on
- Cons: Not supportive for large busts
- Retailer availability: Amazon, Cosabella, Zappos
This Cosabella Curvy Flirtie bra has a cult following for good reason. Many laud the wireless bandeau as “beyond comfortable,” which is all thanks to the brand’s signature soft, stretchy and sheer scalloped lace material. It’s specifically designed for fuller busts. The cups are not padded, but the bra is lined at the front with power mesh for support.
What reviewers say: “I’m not sure how Cosabella did it, but this is a mid-support bandeau. It’s not skimpy but not overly constructed either.”
Courtesy of Amazon
Felina Body Luxe Convertible Strapless Underwire Contour Bra
Best Convertible Strapless Bra, Runner-Up
- Size range: 34C to 38DD
- Colorways: Black, Warm Nude
- Materials: 82% nylon, 18% spandex
- Pros: Silicone stays are hypoallergenic and dermatologist-approved
- Cons: Band fits snug
- Retailer availability: Nordstrom, Amazon
This underwire option from Felina is one of the most comfortable strapless bras, even being dubbed by one reviewer as “strapless nirvana.” It’s made of a soft, semi-lustrous nylon material that’s undetectable and layered under delicate fabrics such as silk or clingy knits. It’s also convertible, so you can wear it with or without straps. Keep in mind some reviewers mention it runs slightly snug in the band, so go for a size up in width and a cup size down.
What reviewers say: “This is the only strapless bra I have ever felt comfortable wearing all day,” writes on buyer. “I’m telling you — I totally forgot I’m wearing it.”
Courtesy of Nordstrom
Skims Mesh Strapless Underwire Bra
Best Non-Padded Strapless Bra
- Size range: 30A to 46H
- Colorways: White, Bronze, Mahogany, Onyx, Poppy, Petal
- Materials: 84% Nylon / 16% Spandex
- Pros: Brushed back elastic straps for ultimate comfort
- Cons: Runs small
- Retailer availability: Nordstrom, Skims
For those who prefer more support without the padding, Skims also has an underwire strapless option. Buyers agree that this lightweight mesh option is just as comfortable as it is supportive. It consists of two layers of power-stretch mesh that suck everything in and wick away sweat at the same time.
What reviewers say: “Make the purchase if you love thin and mesh. It’ll meld right into you into your body ‘like a second skin.'”
Courtesy of Nordstrom
Commando Double Take Bandeau
Best Strapless Minimizer Bra
- Size range: S/M to M/L
- Colorways: Nude, Black
- Materials: Nylon/spandex
- Pros: Lace back
- Cons: No support
- Retailer availability: Bloomingdales, Commando, Amazon
This Commando bra has a practical seamless front side and a sexy sheer, scalloped-lace backside. It’s wire-free but still supportive (one reviewer describes it as “reasonably thick and compressive enough”). It’s a good in-between bra, meaning you can wear it when you’re not comfortable enough to go braless but don’t want to commit to an underwire option. The style is available in two sizes: small/medium or medium/large.
What reviewers say: “Many [other] strapless bras are overly padded and structured, or the lace texture shows through.”
Courtesy of Bloomingdale’s
Free People Nina Neo Bandeau
Also Consider for the Best Bandeau Strapless Bra
- Size range: XS to XL
- Colorways: Optic White, Sepia Tone, Cayenne, Latte, Army Aura, Black
- Materials: 15% Spandex, 85% Polyester
- Pros: Pull-on
- Cons: Can ride down
- Retailer availability: Free People
Buyers are most impressed with the fabric on this Free People bandeau. The fabric marries Free People’s signature scuba-inspired material (a supportive neoprene) with a lightweight, second-skin feel. The pull-on style is made with stretchable elastic hems that perfectly adhere to your unique shape. You can get it in a handful of colors from nude to pink and in sizes XS to XL.
What reviewers say: “It’s a little thicker than I expected, almost like a thin neoprene, so no worries about it being see-through,” writes one shopper.
Courtesy of Free People
Spanx Suit Your Fancy Strapless Cupped Mid-Thigh Bodysuit
Best Strapless Bodysuit
- Size range: XS to XL
- Colorways: Champagne Beige, Very Black
- Materials: 51% elastane, 49% nylon
- Pros: Single-layer shaping fabric offers a lightweight, yet firm hug
- Cons: Cups are large
- Retailer availability: Amazon, Spanx, Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, Bergdorf Goodman
When you’re wearing a bodycon dress, you want more than just your boobs to feel lifted and secured. This Spanx strapless bodysuit, which comes in sizes XS to XL, is the ultimate supportive undergarment. The cling-free, single layer fabric is lightweight yet still firmly hugs your shape. The clean-cut leg openings are invisible under clingy dresses, and these even have an easy-access gusset for when nature calls. Pro tip: Buy per your bra size, but make sure to check the brand’s sizing first.
What reviewers say: “This was exactly what I was looking for. It’s a less expensive Spanx line but good quality.”
Courtesy of Amazon
Natori Bliss Perfection Strapless Contour Underwire Bra
- Size range: 34B to 36DDD
- Colorways: Cafe, Black
- Materials: 62% nylon, 38% spandex
- Pros: Wide hidden elastic at the bottom band and top back to minimize shifting without silicone
- Cons: Six closures in back makes it hard to put on
- Retailer availability: Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, Amazon, Natori
Palep likes this Natori bra for its practicality. Crafted for larger chest sizes, it’s unique in that its wide band clings to the ribcage for security. However, it’s not too tight thanks to the hidden elastic layer. The underwire bra utilizes stretchable fabric and stretch foam pads to gently contour to your body. Should you choose to use them, the bra also comes with adjustable straps that you can wear in a classic, crisscross or halter style.
Courtesy of Journelle
Brassybra Second Skin Invisible Adhesive Bra
Best Breast Tape
- Size range: A/B, C/D or DD/DDD
- Colorways: Vanilla, Licorice, Cocoa, Caramel, Chocolate
- Materials: 97% Cotton, 3% Polyurethane
- Pros: Backless
- Cons: No support
- Retailer availability: Lulus, Nordstrom
These Brassybra stick-ons are also recommended by Zenere. “You have to get the hang of [breast tape], but you can kind of forge your own bra using it,” notes the stylist. “I use it on all my clients.” They’re a new, more durable take on the silicone nipple cover. They’re made from thin, stretchy medical-grade adhesive fabric that offers invisible shape and support. They’re also water-resistant, so they’ll last even through dancing or swimming. Each box comes with three one-time bra sets and three nipple covers. Have your pick from a range of skin tones in sizes A/B, C/D or DD/DDD.
Courtesy of Lulus
Lively The No-Wire Strapless Bra
Best Lightly Padded Strapless Bra
- Size range: 32C to 38DD
- Colorways: Umber, Black, Toasted Almond
- Materials: 85% Nylon, 15% Spandex
- Pros: Wirefree – no poking or digging!
- Cons: The side “wires” can sometimes dig into the skin
- Retailer availability: Lively
One reviewer is not alone when she calls this hook-and-eye closure bra from Lively “a game changer.” It offers soft, flexible support without any wires, but it’s the non-slip silicone strip at the top of the cups that has people talking. The cups are also lightly padded, offering just enough nipple coverage for you to feel comfortable.
What reviewers say: “It’s my new favorite and provides all of the support necessary — not to mention I don’t have to consistently readjust and pull it up throughout.”
Courtesy of Lively
Fashion Forms Lift It Up Plunge Backless/Strapless Adhesive Bra
Best Strapless Backless Bra
- Size range: A to DD
- Colorways: Almond
- Materials: 100% silicone
- Pros: Backless
- Cons: No support
- Retailer availability: Shopbop, Nordstrom
Fashion Forms’ Lift It Up adhesive bra is another celeb stylist staple. It covers a wider range of sizes from A to DD. It’s a game-changer for anyone who wants a pushup effect without all the material. The pads are larger than your usual stickies and the unique shape offers full coverage. The thick, gel-like pads look natural under clothing and offer a comfortable fit designed to mirror the sensation of going braless.
What reviewers say: “I’ve been wearing sports bras since my double mastectomy and reconstruction 2 years ago. I needed to get back to wearing regular bras again but I was worried I wouldn’t find something comfortable with good support. I’m so excited that I found this bra! Sooooo comfy and plenty of support. I bought it in 3 colors and will likely buy more! I did size down as they seem to run big.”
Courtesy of Shopbop
The Different Types of Strapless Bras
Classic strapless style: “This is your basic underwire strapless bra, wearable under just about every strapless, halter, one-shoulder, cut-out or thin strap option,” Palep says.
Strapless bandeau bra: “These wireless styles usually have no hook-and-eye closure, are simple to pull on and wearable under anything,” Palep explains. “[They’re] especially great under low-back tops and tanks or backless styles.”
Convertible strapless bra: “This type of bra is incredibly versatile, like three bras in one,” Palep says. “These have straps that can be removed or added to give you a regular bra, halter bra or strapless style.”
Removable strap strapless bra: These are also versatile, like having two bras in one. “They have straps that can be removed or added to give you a regular bra style or strapless style,” Palep explains.
Plunge strapless: “These have a low front and are designed to be worn under plunge-front tops so your bra doesn’t peek out,” Palep describes.
Seamless strapless: “These are strapless with smooth cups so they disappear under tops and clothes,” Palep notes.
Sticky bras: “I always have sticky bras for A-B cups,” Zenere says. “They offer the most seamless option and allow for an open back look.”
What to Consider When Shopping for the Best Strapless Bras
With skin-baring necklines on trend this season, finding the best strapless bra is a must. So consider these pointers, and you’ll be able to find the one that’s best for you.
Sizing: A strapless bra has to do a lot: stay put, support you, stay comfortable, and look smooth under your cocktail dress, tube top, and many more garments. So first, experiment with strapless bras of different sizes. This is because “your normal bra size may be different for a strapless bra as it needs to have a stronger cinch in the bodice,” Zenere explains. While finding the correct cup size is crucial, try strapless bras with different band widths. Strapless bras rely heavily on the bands, so you must make sure your strapless bra has a band width that’s comfortable and supports your chest. Additionally, when figuring out your strapless bra size, pay close attention to the number of hooks on the band. This is important because those with large breasts need more support, especially when straps aren’t around, and a wide band with many hooks can ensure a snug and comfortable fit.
Special features: Not all strapless bras are built the same, so paying attention to the intricate features of the bra is important. First, look for a strapless bra with a non-slip grip. Everyone can agree that the best strapless bras are the ones that stay put. Having to shimmy your bra back into place constantly can take all the fun out of showing off a bit more décolletage. So, opt for a bra with good silicone elastic at the cup edge since that will prevent slipping. Also, seek out a strapless bra with boning, as this is what gives the chest support. Since the boning in a bra can quickly become uncomfortable, choose a bra with boning that’s softly encased with quality padding. Palep’s biggest tip: “If the strapless bra isn’t comfortable, don’t get it,” she says. “Don’t buy one you’ll never wear because you hate how it feels.”
Versatility: For many of us, our strapless bra sits around waiting for a special occasion to be worn, so when shopping for a strapless bra, go for one that’s versatile. “An option with convertible, removable straps, and one that comes in basic tones like black or nude gives you more bang for your buck,” Palep adds. In addition, having a bra with the option to add or remove the straps allows you to wear it with all types of clothing and for many different occasions.
How We Selected/Researched the Best Strapless Bras
To find the best strapless bra on the market, we assessed several different factors and design elements of every strapless bra on this list. Some key elements we looked at were fit, comfort, style, materials used, and how well they stay in place. To narrow our selections of the 26 best strapless bras, we looked to online consumer reviews and interviewed bra experts in the fashion industry, including a fashion CEO and a celebrity stylist. Additionally, we looked for strapless bras that were best for a variety of body types and bust sizes — from petite to tall to curvy and plus-size. You’ll find a price range that stems from affordable, budget-friendly finds from brands like Cosabella and La Perla to Commando and Spanx, all of which have become tried-and-true favorites in the space.
Meet the Experts
Sapna Palep, MD, MBA, is CEO of Journelle, where the priority is to create a safe space for women to explore the world of intimates – somewhere women feel understood and catered to, so they can embrace the joys of designing a beautiful lingerie wardrobe. Sapna understands that at some point, we’ve all felt the physical and emotional impact of wearing a bra that doesn’t fit right. That needs to change – she is striving to marry her experience in wellness and medicine to Journelle so that change can be felt here.
Jacqueline Zenere is a stylist, content creator, and creative director. She began her career at W Magazine where she pitched, wrote, edited, and styled all front-of-book fashion content: full-page features, trend stories, and well-feature stories. Jacqueline’s market expertise spanned designer womenswear, menswear, accessories, bridal, and fine jewelry markets. Later, Jacqueline joined the creative force behind launching Olivia Palermo’s namesake e-comm and editorial platform, styling each feature. Jacqueline has since relocated to Los Angeles, continuing to work closely with the Olivia Palermo team, while extending client list to Ashley Benson, Kyra Sedgwick, Devery Jacobs, Cobie Smulders, Britt Lower, Michelle Gomez, and more. Advertising clients include Piaget, LG, and Prada.
Meet the Authors
Taylor Jean Stephan previously held the beauty and style editor title at E! News for 5 years where she oversaw the shopping vertical and appeared as an on-air correspondent. Her writing can be found in The Zoe Report, Bustle, Cosmopolitan, Elle, Oprah, Shape, Women’s Health, and more. Stephan wrote the initial version of this strapless 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 strapless bra story for 2023 with the latest product releases and more expert shopping advice.