When it comes to style, what you wear under your clothing can matter just as much as your clothing itself. This couldn’t be more true of bras, since straps and materials can easily get in the way and distract from the finished look — which is why we can’t imagine our dresser drawers without a strapless bra. “A strapless bra is meant to support the breasts while you’re wearing strapless clothing or clothing such as tube tops, strapless dresses, and spaghetti strap tops that has unique straps that may show with a traditional bra,” Annette Bourne, a stylist and lingerie fit specialist with over 20 years of experience, tells PEOPLE.
When shopping for a strapless bra, comfort and support is important to consider, however, the fit is the most essential aspect. “A strapless bra should fully encase the breasts and fit snugly enough to stay up without the help of straps,” says Jené Luciani Sena, a bra expert and author of The Bra Book. With this in mind, we decided the only way to find the best strapless bras is to try them on and conduct real-world testing — so that’s exactly what we did.
After testing dozens of styles, we landed on 13 strapless bras that work best for a variety of specifics, including strapless bras for large busts, the most versatile strapless bras, and, for added comfort, wireless strapless bra styles.
Keep reading to learn more about the best strapless bras, according to our tests.
Best Overall
Aerie Real Sunnie Strapless Bra
Our Ratings
ProsWith its snug fit, it works well for long-wear without ever feeling uncomfortable
Full-coverage bra but the material doesn’t feel too thick and noticeable
Supports both small and larger busts
Stayed up during wear, even through a night of dancing
After testing dozens of strapless bra options, the Aerie Real Sunnie Strapless Lightly Lined Bra earned its place as the best overall strapless bra we tested. Not only does this bra comes in a fantastic nude color range, it's designed for everyday wear, thanks to its snug (yet super comfy) fit, lightweight material, and excellent support for small and large busts alike.
Upon wear-testing, we were most impressed by the level of support it provided (especially for larger busts), which can be hard to find in a strapless bra. One tester even wore it out dancing for five hours and was shocked at how well it stayed up, the support it offered, and how comfortable it was throughout the evening (with no obvious sweat stains showing through, either — she described it as "definitely sort of sweat-wicking"). We also loved the removable straps, which add to the overall value and allow for lots of styling potential when we want some strap support. Plus, it holds up in the washing machine without stretching or losing any of its shape or color. Overall, this bra exceeded our expectations in what we can expect in a strapless bra — and the affordable price is just the icing on the cake.
Size Range: 32A-40D | Materials: Recycled nylon, spandex | Features: Removable straps, full coverage
Runner Up, Best Overall
Spanx Up For Anything Strapless Bra
Our Ratings
ProsBand is made from ultra-soft material that feels comfortable against the skin
Added grip technology helps keep the bra band in place and prevents any slippage
After hours of wear, we didn’t have to adjust the bra once
Stretches a little with wear, so keep that in mind when looking at sizing
Depending on preference, the extra padding and molding might not be ideal for larger busts
The Spanx Up For Anything Strapless Bra is specifically designed with Spanx SmartGrip technology and With Me tape to keep the bra band in place for long wear. While testing this strapless bra out, we found that both features worked really well and we never had to adjust the bra — even after hours of wearing it. The material was also a standout and helped provide support and comfort without any rubbing or digging. We also love that it has removable straps so you can get lots of wear out of this bra, whether you want it strapless or need a racerback, halter, or one-shoulder style instead.
Depending on preference, the extra padding and molding can be viewed as a downside, especially for larger busts, since it makes breasts look a couple of sizes bigger. We also found that this bra stretched a little with wear, which is important to keep in mind when deciding on size. Ultimately, though, we were super pleased with this option, especially because of its stay-put technology and high-quality feel.
Size Range: 32A-40DD | Materials: Nylon, elastane | Features: Memory foam cups, removable straps, Spanx SmartGrip technology and With Me tape
Best Budget
Maidenform Ultimate Stay Put Strapless Bra
Our Ratings
ProsSuper comfortable for all-day wear
With the right size and fit, the bra doesn’t budge, so you don’t have to worry about slippage
Underwire and padding add excellent support and shape
Band can feel a little snug, so you may need to size up
There is a lot of padding, which isn't ideal for every bust size
When testing budget-friendly strapless bras, we found that the Maidenform Self Expressions Strapless Bra was the best option. Not only is this bra super affordable (and currently on sale for less than $15), but it’s also high-quality and comparable to many other options on our list. When testing it out, we found that it was comfortable enough for all-day wear, and with the right size, the bra fits really well. It also features comfort grip technology, which helps it stay in place (it never once slid down when testing, which is super impressive).
For a strapless bra, it also had a decent amount of support, thanks to its underwire and extra padding. While we love that the bra doesn’t budge, it can fit a bit snug, so we recommend sticking to your true bra size or sizing up rather than sizing down. Or because it's so inexpensive, buy a few different sizes to find the correct fit, and then return the rest.
Size Range: 34A-40DD | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Features: Comfort grip technology, lifting technology based on bra size
Best Lightweight
Intimissimi Giada Bandeau Bra
Our Ratings
ProsWe appreciate the good band size range
Bra never stretched out or lost its shape during the testing period
Bra camouflages well under clothing
Silicone band helps keep it in place all day long
For a lightweight bra that still boasts excellent shape and fit, we recommend the Intimissimi Giada Microfiber Bandeau Bra, which has a full-coverage silhouette that camouflages well under clothing and a silicone band that helps it stay in place all day long. While the boning is a little uncomfortable and the bra fits a little snugly, we loved this bra as a strapless option since it provided great support and didn't ever slip and slide around the ribcage during the testing period. Its microfiber material also provides a more seamless look and the removable straps adds more versatility, giving you several bras in one.
Plus, it's conveniently machine-washable (on cold with like colors); the bra maintained its structure and shape with no stretching of the material after multiple wears and washes, making it durable enough for longtime use.
Size Range: 32A-44DDD | Materials: Polyamide, elastane, polyester, cotton | Features: Removable straps, silicone backed band, microfiber material
Best for Small Busts
Pepper MVP Multiway Strapless Bra
Our Ratings
ProsDesigned specifically with small busts in mind, so there is no cup gap
Wide band for added support and to help it stay in place for longer
Full coverage that shapes and supports small busts
In a lot of ways, strapless bras work really well for small busts. However, slipping can become a major issue. With sizes 30AA through 40B, the Pepper MVP Multiway Strapless Bra was specifically designed with small busts in mind. We love that it has a thicker strap that, despite getting in the way of some tops and dress styles, actually works really well at keeping the bra in place without sliding around the ribcage or slipping down. While the bra doesn’t have a lot of padding, its full coverage design works well to shape and support breasts in the same way that a traditional bra with straps would. The best part, though, is that you never have to worry about the inevitable cup gap, which is all too common for those with small busts.
Size Range: 30AA-40B | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Features: Convertible straps, silicone no-slip strip
Best for Large Busts
Curvy Kate Luxe Strapless Bra
Our Ratings
ProsDesigned with vertical seams for lift and soft boning for added support
Band fits snugly around the chest and doesn’t move
Offers excellent coverage
If you’re shopping for a strapless bra for large busts, we were most impressed by the Curvy Kate Luxe Strapless Bra, which comes in sizes 28D to 40J and features vertical seams for lift and soft boning for extra support. Upon testing out this bra, we found that the coverage was excellent and the ribcage band fit super snug around the chest, which makes it easier for it to stay in place.
Speaking of the band, we loved the thicker style, which worked well with the cups and also provided ample support; it also has silicone lining for added slip prevention, which worked really well. The cups are also noteworthy as they resemble a T-shirt bra with lightweight padding, which is ideal for large busts in a strapless bra.
Size Range: 28D-40J | Materials: Nylon, polyester, elastane | Features: Vertical seams for added lift, soft boning, silicone lining
Best Versatile
Victoria's Secret Sexy Illusions Strapless Bra
Our Ratings
ProsWe appreciate the inclusive size range that goes up to 44G
Removable and convertible straps, so you get several bras in one
Cups are a little more plunging that others we tested, so they work well with a variety of necklines
Good range of nude colors available
Sides feature a raw-cut design so it’s virtually seamless
Underwire and boning can take some getting used to, but it’s not necessarily uncomfortable
Band stretches a little after washing
The best versatile bra is the Victoria’s Secret Sexy Illusions Lightly-Lined Strapless Bra. This bra comes with removable convertible straps that allow you to go strapless as well as halter, one-shoulder, and racerback, giving you plenty of styling options. In addition to the straps, the cups are a little more plunging, which allows it to work with a variety of necklines. The bra also comes in a good range of nude colors and has excellent size options ranging from 32A to 44G.
During the testing period, we were mostly drawn to its versatility and inclusive design; however, we also loved how well the bra actually worked as a strapless bra. The band and cups have non-slip technology so they stay up well, and while the underwire and boning can take some getting used to, they provide fantastic support and lift. Despite its snug fit, we found that the band stretched a little when washing, so we recommend keeping in mind when considering sizing.
Size Range: 32A-44G | Materials: Polyamide, elastane | Features: Convertible straps, raw cut wings, non-slip band and cups technology
Best Size Range
ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Strapless Bra
Our Ratings
ProsComes in sizes 32A to 44H, plus half-cup sizes
Bra has a wide band which makes it feel more supportive
Designed with comfortable foam cups
Only comes in one nude color
Slips a little throughout the day, but it isn’t too noticeable or frustrating
For the best size range, we recommend Thirdlove 24/7 Classic Strapless Bra, which comes in sizes 32A through 44H, plus half cup sizes. In addition to its impressive sizing, this bra has a wide band with silicone lining that makes it feel more supportive and doesn’t slip around as well as foam cups that are super comfy. During testing, we found that it mostly stayed in place; there were times when it slipped slightly, but it wasn’t too noticeable nor a deal-breaker. We do wish this bra came in more nude color options though — right now it's only available in black and beige.
Size Range: 32AA-44H | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Features: Silicone lining on top and bottom edge, foam cups
Best Plunge for Small Busts
Natori Feathers Strapless Bra
Our Ratings
ProsBra has a silicone trim on the top of the band to help prevent slipping
Full-coverage cups help shape and support breasts, despite a plunging neckline
Bra band stays put throughout the day and is super comfortable
Virtually seamless under clothing
When wearing a more plunging neckline, you’ll need a strapless bra option with a lower cut so that it doesn’t show. This Natori Feathers Strapless Bra combines smooth cups with a stunning lace band for a stylish and chic yet ultra-functional design. During the testing period, we found this was one of the most comfortable strapless bras we tried. We loved that the band has silicone trim to help it stay in place and thought this feature did exactly as promised. Despite a plunging neckline, the strapless bra has full coverage cups which worked well to shape and support the breasts, too. While it does have a lace band, we found the bra was actually completely seamless under clothing, so it would work for a variety of garments.
Size Range: 32B-36DDD | Materials: Nylon, lycra, polyester, spandex | Features: Convertible straps, silicone trim on top band
Best Wireless
Soma Enbliss Stay Put Strapless Bra
Our Ratings
ProsMaterial and wireless style makes it extremely comfortable
Full-coverage style helps shape breasts with a natural lift
Virtually invisible under clothing
After testing several styles out, the Soma Enbliss Multiway Stay-Put Wireless Strapless Bra earned its spot as the best wireless bra. The durable material coupled with the wireless design makes this bra comfortable for all-day wear. We also love that the full coverage helps give the breasts a nice shape with a natural lift and that the bra is practically invisible under clothing — we even wore it under a bridesmaid dress and didn't have to adjust it at all. In addition to these details, we found that the spandex on the band worked really well at keeping it in place and we loved that the bra has removable straps, which adds more versatility.
One thing we noticed during testing is that the larger bra size (32DD) featured a silicone band around the cup edge to help prevent slipping, but this silicone strip wasn't present in the smaller bra size we tested (34C). While the entire cup interior (on both bra sizes) is made from a silicone-like material which hugs the breast to keep bra from falling down, the tester with the smaller cup size didn't think it did enough to keep it from slipping, wishing her bra size also included the added silicone strip on the band for added function.
Size Range: 32A-42G | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Features: Full coverage contour cups, spandex on the band, wireless, removable straps
Best with Convertible Straps
Wacoal Red Carpet Strapless Bra
Our Ratings
ProsFor a strapless bra, it lifts and supports breasts well
Virtually seamless under clothing
Cups provide full coverage and excellent shaping
While most bras on our list feature removable and convertible straps, we loved the Wacoal Women’s Red Carpet Strapless Bra the most because the straps were so comfortable and easy to style, depending on our needs. Additionally, the bra works really well on its own as a strapless bra. We also love the wider bra band, which allows for further support but also helps keep the bra in place when worn as a strapless style.
While boning and underwire might feel uncomfortable for some (especially those who prefer wireless designs), these features allow the bra to provide excellent lift and support. The full-coverage cups also boast excellent shaping abilities and the lightweight material helps the bra go completely undetected under clothing.
Size Range: 30D - 44I | Materials: Polyamide, spandex | Features: Boning on the sides, non-slip rubber on the band edges
Best Lace
Cosabella Forte Convertible Strapless Bra
Our Ratings
ProsSnug fit helps it stay in place without feeling uncomfortable or restricting
Side boning provides additional support without causing discomfort
Despite its lacy material, the bra boasts good coverage and shaping
With the Cosabella Forte Convertible Strapless Bra, you get a functional strapless bra and pretty lace lingerie. Despite its lace material (which can often feel a bit itchy), this bra is super soft and comfortable with a snug fit that prevents it from slipping without restriction. The side boning provides additional support without causing any discomfort, too. Although it might not look like it at first glance, we found the bra’s cups to boast good coverage and shaping. Fit-wise, we’d consider trying a size down if you plan to wear it often, since the bra stretches a little bit after wearing it for several days. One thing we would change is the color options — we wish there were more nude options available so we can match our different skin tones.
Size Range: 32B-36G | Materials: Polyamide, elastane | Features: Removable straps, scalloped lace
Best Plunge for Large Busts
Cosabella Never Say Never Plungie Strapless Bra
Our Ratings
ProsComes in an excellent size range for a strapless bra
Features soft and flexible side boning for additional support
Band is comfortable and stays in place well without slipping
Only one nude color option
Lace can wear when washing, so we recommend hand washing
Band stretches by around 0.25 inches with regular wear
The best plunge bra for large busts is the Cosabella Never Say Never Plungie Strapless Bra, which comes in sizes 30C to 36F and features flexible side boning for additional support, plus smooth full-coverage cups for shaping and a more seamless look under clothing. Despite its plunging neckline, the bra does a fantastic job of staying in place around the ribcage without slipping.
While testing this bra, we were most impressed by its level of comfort and how well it stayed in place considering its low neckline and strapless style. We also found it easy to wash, though we recommend hand washing because ours ended up with some extra wear after cleaning it. The band also stretches around 0.25 inches with regular wear, so keep this in mind when looking at sizing. Like several others we tested, we did wish it came in more nude color options.
Size Range: 30C-36F | Materials: Polyamide, elastane | Features: Smooth cups for a seamless look, side boning for support, removable straps
Things to Consider Before Buying Strapless Bras
Material
When shopping for strapless bras, it always helps to consider the different types of materials. “The stronger the material, the more support and lift you get,” says Bourne. She explains that, sometimes, softer materials can squish the breasts together (especially in a strapless style), and as a result, can impact the overall shape of the breasts.
In addition to support, Luciani Sena says the material matters if you are looking for something specific. She says, for example, those who tend to sweat in the bust area might want something more breathable like cotton or opt for a sweat-wicking material while those who want a completely smooth look might prefer a foam cup and microfiber material, such as the Intimissimi Giada Microfiber Bandeau Bra or the Spanx Up For Anything Strapless Bra.
Grip
One of the most important aspects of a strapless bra is the grip — without it, a bra could easily slip and slide down your back which is the exact opposite of what you want. When considering which strapless bra to purchase, Luciana Sena says to check for “extra features to help it grip to the body like silicone around the inner sides of the band.” Band size also helps ensure that a strapless bra fits snugly (yet still comfortable) under the busts and a wider band can also add an additional layer of grip and support.
One of the best strapless bras with grip is the Spanx Up For Anything Strapless Bra, which is a runner-up for our best overall category. This bra features Spanx SmartGrip technology and With Me tape on the bra band so that the strapless bra stays in place and never slips.
Shape
According to Bourne, shape also matters for a more seamless effect. With this in mind, she says to ensure a bra doesn’t sit above a shirt or dress’ neckline. She also says to avoid options that are too far below the neckline “because then you’ll see the top of the bra cup through the shirt.” If you’re shopping for a specific occasion, it helps to try on the strapless bra under the garment you plan to wear, that way you can get a good idea of how it looks underneath.
Versatility
For a more cost-effective option, Bourne says to go for something more versatile. “If you need a strapless bra, try one with removable straps that can be used in many ways,” she explains, noting that a convertible bra can go from strapless to one strap to racerback, to traditional tank straps, giving you multiple uses in one bra.
After testing dozens of options, we found that the best strapless bra with convertible straps is the Wacoal Women's Red Carpet Strapless Bra, which has comfortable straps that can easily transform into a range of bra styles. Our top pick for the best strapless bra overall, the Aerie Real Sunnie Strapless Lightly Lined Bra, also features removable straps which are easily manipulated depending on your styling needs. The Cosabella Forte Convertible Strapless Bra, is another excellent choice for a strapless bra with removable straps, plus we love the lace detail and color options.
How We Tested
To find the best strapless bras, we researched dozens of styles, considering options with the best size ranges, grip features, materials, support, and more. After compiling this list of products, we sent each of these products to at least two testers of different cup sizes in order to determine how each bra fits on different body types. To fairly evaluate each bra, we tested each one for a minimum of two weeks under a variety of different garments to get a good idea of the support provided, comfort level, and fit. We also followed each bra’s wash instructions to see how well they held up when washing as well as how easy they are to clean.
After the testing period was over, we rated each strapless bra on a 1 to 5 scale against the following testing categories: fit, comfort, support, quality, and adjustability. The strapless bras with the highest average ratings earned a spot on this PEOPLE Tested list.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you keep a strapless bra from falling down?
There’s nothing more annoying than a strapless bra that keeps sliding down. To prevent this from happening, Bourne says it’s essential to wear the correct size. “It’s best to get measured and get something that fits around the ribcage properly,” she explains. Our top pick for the best size range is the Thirdlove 24/7 Classic Strapless Bra because it not only has impressive cup sizes but also comes in a band size range of 32 to 44, making it easier to find an option that fits around the ribcage.
Depending on the bra and your band and bust size, some bras can still slide around. Luciana Sena says the trick to keeping a strapless bra in place is to “go down a band size and also look for silicone lining the inner side of the band.” She also recommends staying away from lotions and oils on the chest and ribcage as this can lubricate the skin and cause even the best bras with grips to slip.What’s the difference between a strapless bra and a bandeau?
“A bandeau is generally soft, has no wire, and is something you casually slip on — it doesn’t offer shape or lift and it’s normally used for comfort,” says Bourne. While a bandeau is technically a type of strapless bra, they’re also popular undershirt options for those who want some coverage but don’t want to wear a full camisole or tank top. Additionally, Bourne says some people might even use strapless bras under bandeaus because they like the look of it but still want the shape and support from a strapless bra.
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Jessie Quinn is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON, and more. When covering the best strapless bras, Jessie carefully reviewed the PEOPLE Tested team’s insights, looking for options that were most comfortable, had the best fit, and featured additional specs like grip and convertible straps. She also reached out to top bra experts Annette Bourne and Jené Luciani Sena to learn more about what to look for in strapless bras, what makes a strapless bra the best, and for their expert insights on how to prevent strapless bras from slipping.
What Is PEOPLE Tested?
We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.
In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.
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