The best strapless bras, at a glance
Strapless bras have a reputation for being the worst—and for years, I agreed. Every single one I owned gaped at the top, dug into my ribs, or slid down the second I moved. Still, I wore them anyway, tugging and adjusting my way through weddings and holiday parties because I didn’t think a better option existed.
Earlier this year, I set out to finally find a strapless bra that actually lived up to its promises. Since the last update to this story, I’ve tested 21 styles in total, wearing them under everything from formal gowns to sleek tops. Along the way, I found a few genuinely comfortable bras—rare in the strapless world—and the SpanxSmooth Suit Your Fancy Strapless Bra still stands out for its lightly compressive feel, secure fit, and smooth, lifted shape—something I appreciate as a mom of four approaching 40. Because fit preferences vary, I also tapped fellow Glamour editors, stylists, and trusted friends to share the strapless bras they rely on, including supportive options for small and large busts and wireless and push-up styles that don’t make you count down the minutes until you can take them off.
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Best Overall: Spanx SpanxSmooth Suit Your Fancy Strapless Bra
| What we love | What could improve |
|---|---|
| Ample silicone grippers to help the bra stay up; breathable and quick-drying fabric; cups provide a very natural and desirable shape | It’s not convertible |
I didn’t expect to love shapewear brand Spanx’s strapless bra as much as I did. The material feels smooth and doesn’t cinch, crease, or dig in. The soft fabric lies flat and gives a natural shape with light compression. There’s no shelf effect or visible lines—even under thin, fitted bodysuit tanks. It’s also breathable and quick-drying.
What really stands out is its staying power. The wings have more silicone strips than any other bra I tested, and silicone dots along the cups keep it from slipping or gaping. I wore it through a full day of walking more than four miles in the city—and later, several hours of dancing—with only minor adjustments. The one concession: The bra doesn’t have convertible straps, so it can only be worn strapless.
Specs
- Sizes available: 32B–40DD
- Material: 51% elastane, 49% nylon (cups); 55% elastane, 45% nylon (wings)
- Colors: Beige, black
Best Convertible: ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Strapless Bra
| What we love | What could improve |
|---|---|
| Inclusive sizing; poke-free flexible underwire; supportive memory-foam cups; includes clear and matching-color removable straps | Some reviewers report inconsistent sizing |
Get some good grip and full coverage with ThirdLove’s classic bra. Glamour reviewer Emily Rodriguez praises this bra’s comfort. “I wore this strapless bra all day, and (a) it stayed in place, but (b) it didn’t make me feel like I was constricted by intense underwire,” she says.
I had a similar experience with this option but did find it ran a bit small. Even the cups looked and felt smaller than some other brands I tried, which may make this a better pick for those with small chests. The underwire didn’t dig in but offered a nice little lift. I also appreciated the shape of the molded cups—they aren’t too padded yet add some shape. The garment sat nice and flush with my skin, too, so I didn’t experience that awkward shelf you often get with other strapless bras—great for clean lines under your favorite tee.
Specs
- Sizes available: 32AA–44H
- Material: 76% nylon, 24% spandex
- Colors: Black, taupe
| What we love | What could improve |
|---|---|
| Breast-enhancing; versatile; adds lift | Excess padding means the bra isn’t comfortable for extended periods of time |
The cups on this Victoria’s Secret style have a nonslip band that actually keeps them in place all day, plus padding that noticeably boosts volume. I truly couldn’t believe how much volume it added to my relatively small bust (hello, cleavage!). “This is a game changer, especially for someone who hates padded bras,” says Glamour contributor Brittany Romano. “It also provided the necessary support for my scoliosis but didn’t dig into my skin or leave me reaching for my back roller.”
Another notable feature of this strapless push-up bra is its convertible design. The adjustable, removable straps let you wear it strapless, halter, crisscross, or one-shoulder. It stays secure and works with most necklines, though it’s not the most comfortable for long days since the padding can feel a bit stiff—but that’s true of most push-up bras.
Specs
- Sizes available: 32A–38E
- Material: Polyamide, elastane
- Colors: Black, white, praline, ganache, caramel
Best for Plus Sizing: Skims Fits Everybody Strapless Bra
| What we love | What could improve |
|---|---|
| Wide range of colors to suit more skin tones; size inclusive | Slightly flattening |
TBH, there wasn’t much I didn’t love about the Skims Fits Everybody Strapless Bra. The fabric is very soft, but most importantly, it stays up without digging in or creating awkward lines under a shirt or strapless dress. Not to mention, in classic Skims fashion, it comes in eight colors to suit more skin tones and extended bra sizes up to 46H. I also appreciate that it’s a convertible strapless bra—it comes with matching straps that can be worn any which way.
I wore this strapless bra with a racerback-style shirt for more than 12 hours straight on a busy day of errands and rarely had to make adjustments. I did, however, think there was something to be desired in the shape department. I felt like my boobs looked a little flatter than they did in other styles.
Specs
- Sizes available: 30A–46H
- Material: 80% polyamide, 20% elastane
- Colors: Ochre, sand, mica, clay, sienna, jasper, cocoa, onyx
Best Underwire: Wacoal Red Carpet Convertible Strapless Bra
| What we love | What could improve |
|---|---|
| Breathable mesh sides; solid size range; convertible straps for versatility | Fabric isn’t as soft as others |
The Wacoal Red Carpet Convertible is a wildly popular strapless bra (with thousands of Amazon reviews averaging 4.2 stars) designed for reliable support and all-day wear. It features three rows of hook-and-eye closures for a customizable fit, silicone on the top and bottom edges to help it stay securely in place, and mesh sides for improved airflow—perfect for hot summer events. Convertible straps add versatility, letting you wear it in multiple ways depending on your outfit.
The fabric isn’t as buttery soft as some other bras I’ve tested, but it was still comfortable enough to wear for more than six hours while attending a wedding. I also noticed the underwire provided consistent lift without digging in, and the lightly lined cups provided a smooth shape under a body-hugging dress—minimal adjustments required throughout the evening.
Specs
- Sizes available: 30D–44G
- Material: 91% nylon, 9% spandex
- Colors: Black, roebuck, natural nude
Best Bandeau: Aerie Smoothez Bandeau Bralette
| What we love | What could improve |
|---|---|
| Incredibly soft; easy pull-on style; removable pads | Not the best support for big busts; pads may move around |
Aerie’s bandeau delivers that true second-skin feel you want in a wireless, strapless bra. The fabric is soft and stretchy, it pulls on easily, and the removable pads give you options (I ended up wearing it without them, since they shifted a bit). Sizing down creates a more secure fit, and while it won’t offer the lift of a traditional strapless bra, it’s an excellent pick when comfort and a smooth look matter more than structure.
Specs
- Sizes available: XXS–XXXL
- Material: 70% nylon, 30% Lycra
- Colors: Black, sands
Best Backless: Cakes Cleavage Bra
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| What we love | What could improve |
|---|---|
| Two shapes and two grips; smooth under clothes; reusable | Not the best support for big busts; pads may move around |
These silicone covers from TikTok-viral brand Cakes have become my go-to backless bra because they offer real shape and coverage—not the flimsy, paper-thin feel of the disposable versions we’ve all tried. They’re thicker and more durable, which gives a smoother look under fitted tops and dresses, and you can choose between a “grippy” style without adhesive or a “sticky” one with a firmer hold. I like both, but I choose the grippy pair most often since there’s no cleanup involved and they’re gentle on my sensitive skin. They stick on easily and stay in place under low-cut tight clothes and even swimsuits; if I’m planning to dance or move a lot, I’ll switch to the sticky version. The brand also makes a triangular shape for deep V-neck silhouettes.
Specs
- Sizes available: AA–A, B–DD, DDD+
- Material: Silicone
- Colors: Honey, caramel, cocoa
Best for Small Breasts: Pepper MVP Multiway Strapless Bra
| What we love | What could improve |
|---|---|
| Lightweight fabric with no extra bulk; seamless design; secure silicone strips; convertible design | Designed only for smaller busts |
Designed specifically for smaller busts, the Pepper MVP Multiway Strapless Bra is a best-selling option for small busts that offers a supportive fit without extra bulk. The barely there underwire provides a gentle lift, while the no-gape cups and grippy silicone band help everything stay in place. Convertible straps give it extra versatility—you can wear it strapless, halter-style, one-shoulder, or as a traditional bra.
I was immediately drawn to the lighter-than-air design. The fabric is almost meshlike, so it truly feels like second skin the way it sits on the body—even though it’s a strapless underwire bra. It’s also among the more seamless I’ve tried. There’s no shelf or lines anywhere, even under a very clingy tank top. Still, the silicone band on the bottom keeps everything super secure while you move about. I got through an entire day without any adjustments and have found myself reaching for the straps to wear this convertible option as a regular bra on the days I don’t need a strapless.
Specs
- Sizes available: 30A–40B
- Material: Polyamide, elastane
- Colors: Black, espresso, buff, fawn, sand, ecru
Best for Large Breasts: Panache Alice Strapless Bra
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| What we love | What could improve |
|---|---|
| Underwire and full cups provide more support; great lift and shaping; convertible straps | May show through thinner fabrics |
This balconette-style option is designed with larger busts in mind, offering lift, shape, and reliable support. It features two rows of silicone along the top and bottom edges for extra staying power and comes with convertible straps for versatile wear.
Because of its larger profile and the characteristic stitching of balconette styles, it’s not quite as discreet under thinner fabrics as some other strapless bras. That said, the balconette cut is a great choice for strapless dresses or tops where you want both support and a flattering silhouette, since it naturally lifts and rounds the bust. In testing, I was impressed by how much more shape this bra provided than your average strapless style, and found it works best with structured or medium-weight fabrics—think taffeta or cotton blends—with slightly higher necklines where the stitching stays discreet and the lift enhances the silhouette.
Specs
- Sizes available: 30D–40J
- Material: 45% polyester, 28% cotton, 21% polyamide, 6% elastane
- Colors: Honey, black
How we tested strapless bras
We researched the market for the most popular and well-reviewed strapless bras from brands both big and small, plus asked stylists which ones they recommend to their clients and even use themselves. Then I tried the most widely recommended styles, plus tapped other editors with different body types to weigh in on the ones they love and rely on.
Over the course of five months, I tested a total of 21 styles. I considered the design of each bra. What kind of materials was it made of? Was it a wire bra or wireless? I also considered other features like molded cups and padding, as well as the profile. Could I wear it under a plunging dress, or was it better suited for more standard garments like tube tops and tanks with spaghetti straps? Of course, I also assessed long-term comfort and, perhaps most importantly, how well each bra stayed up. Because, well, it’s just not cute to constantly be hiking up your bra while you’re trying to tear up the dance floor at a wedding—who’s with me?
We’re confident the final list contains only the best strapless bras on the market. These are the bras that feel like a second skin (read: don’t dig in), sit seamlessly under clothing (no awkward shelf), and won’t require constant tugging (phew!).
Other strapless bras we tested
These picks aren’t our absolute favorites—more on that below—but they are still worth mentioning on your search for the best strapless bras.
The OG Natori Feathers Bra has a cult following and is considered one of the best bras out there, but we weren’t as impressed with the brand’s strapless version. “Though it offers plenty of support and has a wide band that kept the bra up even during 12 hours on a wedding dance floor, it’s very uncomfortable,” says Glamour contributor Brie Schwartz. “It left some marks after many hours of wear.” Despite being a regular wearer of the regular version, I had a similar experience. The whole thing dug in a bit, but the real problem for me was the way the cups creased in the center. Unfortunately, this made my boobs look rather misshaped. And while it does go up to a DDD cup in sizing, it’s important to note that the band size only goes up to 36, and we thought the item ran small overall.
Soma is known for having some of the most comfortable undergarments out there in sizes suitable for both petite and plus-size frames, but their Bodify Strapless wasn’t one of my top picks for a few reasons. It was one of the tightest around my chest, it didn’t sit flat against my sternum, and the boning on the sides was very rigid and prevalent. I did like the shape I got from the molded cups but ultimately couldn’t get past the comfort issues for extended wear. The lingerie does, however, have overwhelmingly positive reviews and wins praise from influencers, so it’s possible it runs small or just doesn’t fit my body type quite right.
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This bra impressed us with its ultrasoft, breathable fabric and seamless, stretchy design that offers comfortable support without digging in. It’s ideal for long wear and molds nicely to the body. However, the thin outer layer can wrinkle under clothing, and we noticed a slight shelf effect at the top of the cups after extended wear. It’s also not convertible. While it’s a great pick for anyone looking for a comfortable strapless bra, these drawbacks kept it from making our top list.
Made from soft, smooth materials, this strapless bra sits comfortably on the skin and features lightly padded cups that provide a natural shape without adding bulk. The slightly fuller cups offer solid support and help prevent spillage, while the seamless design and silicone band kept the bra in place during testing. On the downside, the size range isn’t quite as expansive as some other brands, and ultimately, we found the brand’s Red Carpet style to be the superior option for all-day comfort and longer wear.
This push-up adhesive bra is a backless, strapless solution ideal for low-back, strapless, or off-the-shoulder tops and dresses—including evening and wedding gowns. The lightly padded cups give the look of one added cup size, while the medical-grade silicone adhesive keeps it securely in place for all-day wear. It’s also reusable for 50-plus wears with proper care—hand-wash and air-dry only—meaning each wear costs about $1. Sizing is a little trickier than standard strapless bras, since you choose just your cup size, and is more limited, since options only extend from A to D.
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The Gatherall Backless Strapless Bra uses a gentle adhesive to stay in place and is both water- and sweatproof. It offers subtle lift, a seamless finish, and is easy to clean and reuse after rinsing. Overall, it’s a workable option for backless styles, but we’ve found that other sticky bras—including the ones from Knix and Cakes—perform better over long-term use.
Frequently asked questions, answered
What should I look for in a strapless bra?
When shopping for a strapless bra, it’s important to consider your bust- and band-size needs above all, as well as how snugly it fits. Look for bras that have strong, nonslip grip along their outline to keep them in place—and while we recommend ordering your usual size (see below), go down from your standard fit if you’re between sizes or have experienced slippage in the past. Make sure your breasts are contained along the top of the cup and near your arm, which is where you often see spillage (meaning your bra fits poorly and will show through your clothing). “A band that’s too big is the most common reason for slipping—no matter your bust size,” Alicia Miller, director of merchandising and fit specialist at lingerie brand Chantelle, tells Glamour. Sena notes that you should avoid wearing lotions or oils under your strapless bra, as they can cancel out the grippiness.
How do I measure for a strapless bra?
To measure your bra size, use a soft, flexible measuring tape (often called tailor’s tape), following these steps:
- Measure the circumference around your rib cage, right under your breasts, keeping the tape level and snug against your body. Mark down the number in inches, which is your band size. If you get an odd number—say, 35—round up to 36.
- While wearing a well-fitting unpadded bra, measure the fullest part of your bust in line with your nipples without pulling too tight on the measuring tape. It should just sit flush with your skin and not press in. Mark down the closest round number (i.e., 40 instead of 39.5).
- Now you’ll have to calculate the difference between the two measurements to get your cup size. Using the numbers above, there is a four-point difference between 36 and 40, and each point corresponds to a cup letter—A is 1, B is 2, C is 3. So in this example, the cup size would be D.
- Finally, combine your initial band size with your cup size. In our example, the final bra measurement would be 36D.
Do I need to size down in a strapless bra?
No, you generally do not need to size down in a strapless bra. Strapless and sports bras are designed to fit a little firmer than regular bras, so your usual band and cup size is typically correct, says Helene T. Delince, founder of The Fitting Curve in Rockville Center, New York.
How do I wash a strapless bra?
To take care of your strapless bra, you should generally wash it by hand using cold water and a gentle detergent, then lay it flat or hang it to dry. Softer styles, like bandeaus, are often machine-washable on a cold, gentle cycle—preferably inside a mesh laundry bag—but avoid the dryer to maintain shape and elasticity.
Meet our expert
- Helene T. Delince, founder of The Fitting Curve in Rockville Center, New York
