Underwire Bras? We Take a Hard Pass.
BY BETHANY HEITMAN
Along with jeans and high heels, underwire bras were tossed out the proverbial window during the pandemic. While some people let their girls hang free, others turned to wireless options for support. There’s even data to back this up! The market research group NPD reported that in 2020 and 2021, wireless bra sales shot up by 14 percent and pull-over bra styles (think sports bras) increased by 31 percent.
Interestingly, even as the world has opened back up, many women aren’t eager to return to their former go-to bras. From digging to pinching and chafing, underwires can be so painful. But can wireless options really provide enough support for day-to-day wear? The short answer is yes. Even better, to get that wireless support you don’t have to put up with that unattractive uni-boob that sports bras so often give you.
Here, five women share their biggest bra struggles—and we suggest the best wire-free options that still offer adequate lift and support.
“I have DD boobs—I just can’t imagine there’s a bra without a wire that will give me the support I need without smooshing and flattening my chest. But, if there is one, I’d sure love to know about it!” —Ann F., Dallas, Texas
Best for Bigger Chests: Knix WingWoman Contour Bra, $60
True story: The average cup size used to be a B—now it’s a DD! So, that means there are plenty of women out there who need support. Knix goes all the way up to a 42H. Molded cups help you keep a nice, rounded shape and the plunging neckline nicely shows off your cleavage.
Photo curtesy of Knix
“I don’t need a bra for support, my breasts are on the small side. But I do like something that gives me a bit of shape. I feel like most bralettes for small chests are flimsy and do nothing.”
Best for Small Chests: Pepper UltraFine Bralette, $45
This semi-sheer bralette has a deep plunging neckline that adds shape and looks great under a similar style top.It is also crafted from super stretchy material to give even the smallest of boobs a bit of added perkiness.
“So many bralettes have seams or are made from textured material. I’d love to find a super smooth one that I can wear under my everyday wardrobe of a t-shirt.” —Vickie S., Montclair, New Jersey
Best Seamless Option: Parade Triangle Bralette, $30
Buttery soft and completely seamless, this wireless bra will disappear under whatever you’re wearing. It also comes in nine different colors, so you can choose the shade that will go best with your wardrobe.
Photo by Taisiia Shestopal
“I love the idea of a wireless bra, but the ones I find always look so utilitarian. I want to find a lacey one that is sexy and makes me feel feminine and pretty.” —Carmen R., New York, New York
Best Lace Bra: Cosabella Never Say Never Sweetie Bralette, $65
Cosabella is the O.G. of bralettes—and with good reason! Not only do their styles lift and support, they look great. This bralette comes in pretty navy lace that has enough stretch to give you good shape and a flattering sweetheart neckline.
“I find that with wireless bras, I tend to need to get a smaller size to make sure it supports the girls—but then it digs into my back and causes rolls.” —Sarah L., Seattle, Washington
Best Back-Smoothing: HoneyLove CrossOver Bra, $69
A thick back band glides over your back, smoothing the area. Adjustable straps also allow you to create a customized fit, so you can ensure you get plenty of lift without having to go down in size. Oh, and this bra is S-E-X-Y thanks to peek-a-boo mesh in the front.
Bethany Heitman, Contributor
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