We’ve all been there on the dance floor, meeting the in-laws for the first time, or on a date when the unimaginable happens. Your strapless bra starts sliding down, heading for your stomach, and soon enough, it’s dangerously close to ending up around your ankles.
Why is it so tough to find something secure and well-fitted that stays in place without riding up over your dress? To solve this mystery, we decided to embark on a mission to find the best strapless bras so you never have to face that awkward moment again.
We reached out to Jane Newman, chief design officer of Global Innerwear at Hanesbrands Inc., who brings over twenty years of experience designing women’s clothing, specializing in intimates.
Her expertise has given her a keen understanding of what to look for when shopping for a bra, with fit being the number one priority but finding the correct bra size can be challenging.
“To determine your band size, take a measuring tape and wrap it comfortably around your ribcage, just below your bust, ensuring it is snug but not tight,” Newman said. “To find your cup size, measure around the fullest part of your bust. Then, subtract your band size from your bust measurement in inches. Each inch of difference corresponds to one cup size, so a 1-inch difference equals an A cup, 2 inches equals a B cup, and so on.”
She told us that if your bra is riding up, it’s a sign it’s too small, and if it’s too big, the bottom of the cup near the wire won’t be filled out.
Materials matter, so if you have sensitive skin or chafe easily, Newman recommends looking for a “non-foam bra style.” This means two layers of soft fabric, also known as a “2-ply option,” like this convertible racerback. But if you prefer a bit of padding, there are options that give you that desirable volume with softer, stretchier foam, like this seamless foam wireless bra lined with nylon and spandex.
Below are numerous options we’ve tested to find a fit for all bust types. This will keep your special moments focused on the event, after all, bras are meant to support you, not concern you.
Learn more about bra sizing and fit in our FAQ.
Bras we’ve tested
Pros:
- Versatile convertible 6-way strap bra
- Lightly padded cups
- Great price point and best budget option on sale
- Provides a neo-knit back powerband
- Very comfortable to wear with breathable material
Cons:
- Limited sizing for women with larger breasts
- Handwash only
Maidenform is known for delivering top-quality bras at great value, and I was truly impressed by how well-made this bra was. It made me question why I’ve spent money on pricier brands when everything I needed was here all along.
The material is silky smooth, the design is stylish, and the straps are convertible, making it the only bra you’ll ever need. It was an unexpected and pleasant surprise to win our pick for best overall, but it provided everything I needed, from comfort to fabric that’s gentle on sensitive skin. My only con is that the sizing is limited for women with fuller breasts.
If you want another Maidenform option, we tested the Maidenform Women’s Custom Lift Strapless Underwire Bra, which can be worn six ways and has a comfortable, secure grip around the band to help you stay securely in place.
Size Range: 32-40, A-DD | Color Options: 3 | Material: Cup: 67% Nylon/33% Spandex; Back: 63% Nylon/37% Spandex | Convertible: Yes
Pros:
- Excellent fit for larger busts
- Versatile: classic, halter, one strap, crossback, or strapless
- Risk-free shipping and returns on full-price bras
Cons:
- Materials didn’t seem as luxe as some of the other brands we tried
Large Bust Review: “This is one of the more unique strapless bras I’ve tried, and I’m obsessed! The fit is perfect with my slightly uncommon and harder-to-shop-for size (44C), with no gapping in the cups or pinching with the underwire or anywhere else.
Other strapless bras I’ve worn only have a silicone outline on the top or bottom band to keep it up, but this one is lined completely with a grippy (but not uncomfortable!) fabric that keeps everything in place.” – Angela Tricarico, commerce reporter
Read our round-up for more large bra options per experts.
Small Bust Review: “What I loved the most about this bra was the unique Bodify fit that didn’t cut into my ribcage. It sat comfortably and smoothly around my underarms, avoiding underboob in the armpits. The materials didn’t have the same sheen as Spanx or Victoria’s Secret, but it felt soft against the skin, and that’s what matters.” – Emma Sutton-Williams, commerce reporter
Size Range: 32-44, A-DDD | Color Options: 3 | Material: 70% Nylon, 30% Spandex | Convertible: Yes
Pros:
- Best for small busts that need a boost
- Has a silicone no-slip strip to keep it in place
- Comes with multi-way convertible straps
- Best for small busts
Cons:
- Not inclusive for larger busts
This bra quickly became my absolute favorite because it perfectly met my needs. As a 34B, I wanted something that would lift me up and offer a low-cut design for a revealing red velvet dress I wore on a recent date night.
It stayed locked in place all night without any worry of shifting. Honestly, I didn’t even think about it once after putting it on. That’s how comfortable and reliable it was. The fit is lower than most strapless bras, with a solid structure that sits firmly at the bottom, giving me the support I need without sacrificing style. This is my top pick for anyone with a smaller chest, who wants that extra lift — hands down the best and most comfortable strapless bra for small busts.
Check our our push up bra roundup for more options.
Size Range: 30-42, A-B | Color Options: 3 | Material: Body: 75% Polyamide, 25% Elastane, Cup Lining: 75% Polyamide 25% Elastane, Silicone no-slip strip | Convertible: Yes
Pros:
- Absorbs moisture into a quick-drying fabric
- Has a stay-in-place band to keep it from slipping
- Full coverage cups, great for larger busts
- Has light compression for a strapless bra shapewear
Cons:
- Not made for smaller A-size cups
The material is luxurious, well-made, and silky smooth against my skin. The fit offers light compression, providing a smoothing effect. It absorbs moisture, helping keep me dry during the day, making it a great choice for outdoor summer weddings. The band didn’t dig into my back, leaving a smooth surface all around, ideal for form-fitting dresses.
These full-coverage cups are perfect for everyday wear, but personally, they feel a bit bulky. I prefer my strapless bras to have a deeper V-cut or balconette style. But if you’re not trying to show the girls off front and center, this is a modest, conservative choice.
Size Range: 32-40, B-DDD | Color Options: 2 | Material: Cups: 51% Elastane, 49% Nylon. Wings: 55% Elastane, 45% Nylon | Convertible: No
Pros:
- Best for as a low-back strapless bra or a great wireless option
- Strapless, backless bra
- Reusable stick-on
- Great for sensitive skin
Cons:
- This bra is reusable but will need to be swapped out over time because the adhesive will eventually wear out
I’ve tried countless sticky bras ( I’ve even had one fall to the floor beneath my dress), and we all know they never hold up to marketing promises — except this backless stick-on.
Lightly-lined padding creates a seamless, smooth front, but the best part is the inside. One of my breasts has been severely scarred with third-degree burns, so I’m extremely sensitive to materials.
Most stick-on bras are sticky everywhere, but this one sticks everywhere except your nipples, allowing the foam to gently press against them without causing that painful removal at the end of the day.
It’s reusable, though the adhesive will lose its stickiness over time. I find during the summer that the sweat and humidity cut down the lifetime of my stick-on bras, so plan accordingly.
Size Range: AA-DD | Color Options: 1 | Material: 100% Polyester | Convertible: No
Pros:
- Best for volume in front
- Versatile wear: classic, halter, one-strap, crossback or strapless
- Soft, smooth fabric, creating a seamless strapless bra
- Great plunge strapless bra neckline option
Cons:
- It doesn’t lift your breasts upward unless you already have naturally larger breasts, but it does fill them out up to two cup sizes bigger
As a woman with a 34B bust size, sometimes I love volume. This very sexy bombshell goes up two cup sizes and can create the appearance of a larger bust. However, the smaller your breasts are, the more likely it will give you volume in the front but not riding over the top of the bra where some women want to show off the girls.
It was very comfortable to wear, and I loved the deep plunge cut in front for low-cut tops. It’s a convertible strap that can be worn as a classic, halter, one-strap, crossback or strapless so if you can only afford one bra to do it all, I suggest buying the Victoria’s Secret Very Sexy Bombshell Add-2-Cups Push Up Strapless Bra.
Size Range: 32-38, AA-E | Color Options: 2 | Material: Body/Wing: 65% Recycled Polyamide, 35% Elastane, Wing Lining: 64% Elastane, 36% Polyamide, Cup Lining: 100% Recycled Polyester | Convertible: Yes
Other bras we can’t wait to try
Pros:
- Easy to slip into without extra help, thanks to the side zipper
- Stylish and versatile as a corset top or strapless bra with extra lift because of the functional lace in the back
- Not a longline strapless bra but a nice option if you want more coverage
Cons:
- Adore Me is so popular right now shipping has momentarily slowed down
There are printed satin and mesh panels that show off this cheeky silhouette with boning for extra support in the bust. It’s a great option as a boudoir favorite or an alternative top if you’re feeling spicy.
There is a side zipper for convenience to slip in by yourself (no partner required) with a lace-up back designed to make it tighter for a bigger lift in front. Plus, it comes with a matching thong! It’s a great value for what you get and right now it’s on sale if you’re seeking some discounted but sexy lingerie.
Customers are saying: “So comfortable and so sexy! I live alone and was able to put this on and tighten it with no problem. I’m big-breasted and this held my girls in and also made them look beautiful. Didn’t cause my extra pounds to smush out the bottom of the corset either.”
Size Range: XS-XL | Color Options: 3 | Material: Satin: 100% Recycled Polyester, Tulle: 88% Polyester / 12% Spandex | Convertible: No
Pros:
- Comes in the most generous shade and size variety among all options tested
- Feels like second skin
- Most inclusive sizing we’ve seen so far
- Offers more support than most
Cons:
- Price point may be unreachable for some
Kim K, thank you. The SKIMS Fits Everybody Strapless Bra is one of the best splurge bras for anyone who wants a feel-good option with a bit more support. It’s revolutionary in that it’s offered in a span of shades that resemble actual skin tones, making it an inclusive purchase should it peek through a little.
Aside from its shade range, you’ll find this garment running from 30 to 46, and from an A cup to an H cup. It truly feels like a second skin (picture two cotton rounds with straps). They’re true to size without gapping at the cups, too. As a whole, it’s a worthwhile investment for your drawer.
Size Range: 30-46, A-H | Color Options: 8 | Material:80% Polyamide / 20% Elastane | Convertible: Yes
Pros:
- Comfortable, wireless design
- Breathable
- Stretchy
Cons:
- May not last as long over time due to its stretch
The SMOOTHEZ Bandeau Bralette is a lightweight and stretchy option for those who hate traditional bras. Similar to a sports bra, it’s less constricting and is made with breathable nylon to keep sweat at bay.
New York Post Review: “The second Aerie came out with the SMOOTHEZ Bandeau Bralette, I knew the brand was speaking my language. For one, it glides right on. It doesn’t fall down, either, yet I’d say it’s best for those with larger busts because of how it performs well over time.
This bra has a somewhat sticky, thin lining that won’t irritate the skin but has some give when worn month after month. Because it’s very stretchy, it offers the comfort you crave. It’ll be breathable for large and small busts but, holistically, is best for larger busts. If anything, larger cup sizes.” — Victoria Giardina, commerce writer and content strategist
Size Range: XS-L | Color Options: 2 | Material: 70% Nylon, 30% Lycra | Convertible: No
How We Tested
To test the effectiveness of strapless bras, we wore them out on multiple occasions, including dates where we most definitely wanted to avoid the embarrassing slippage of the bra.
Each one was evaluated for its comfort and fit throughout the day. We closely examined the materials used, considering how they felt against the skin and their breathability. We paid attention to how well each bra stayed in place, checking for slipping, discomfort, or irritation.
We also tested the support by assessing the cup and band sizes, ensuring they provided a secure fit without digging in. Flexibility, support, and overall style were key factors in our review, determining which strapless bras delivered before sharing them with you because not all of them made the cut.
FAQ
What key things should I look for when trying on bras?
Band Fit: The band should be snug but comfortable around your ribcage, sitting level across your back without riding up. If the band feels too tight or too loose, it might need adjustment. As Newman suggests, “People often wear their bra bands too loose, which can cause the back of the bra to ride up.”
Wire Position: The underwire should sit flat against your chest, following the natural curve of your body, and should not dig into your skin or ride up. If the wire is lifting or not sitting flat, the bra might be too small.
Cup Fit: The cups should fully contain your breasts without spilling over or leaving gaps. If the bottom of the cup near the wire isn’t full, it likely means the bra is too big, while any overspill could mean it’s too small.
Comfort: When you move, bend, or raise your arms, the bra should stay in place without shifting or causing discomfort. Newman emphasized that “the wings of your bra should sit flat against your back” for a comfortable and secure fit.
When should I wear an underwire bra vs. a non-wire bra?
Underwire bras are often chosen for their added support, shaping, and containment, making them a popular choice for more structured outfits. However, non-wire bras have made significant strides in design, offering supportive padding and under-bust constructions that provide a similar level of shaping. According to Newman, “Choosing between an underwire bra and a non-wire bra is a personal preference, often influenced by the outfit you’re wearing, the look or shape you want to create, and/or your individual style.”
Looking for more styles and brands to choose from? Consider Wacoal, Target, Walmart, Amazon, Calvin Klein, Lane Bryant, Natori to find wireless strapless bra options.
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