Members of the Itty Bitty Titty Committee don't have it so bad. Some of us can forgo bras entirely, and when we do opt for a support garment, it can be a tiny, lacy, and delicate bralette. For busty women, unfortunately, that's usually not the case.
To wit, when we asked our self-proclaimed busty R29'ers what bralettes they wear, they scoffed: "Um, I WISH," "Busty girls can't wear bralettes," and "That just doesn't exist!"
Their reactions make sense: Those who are larger-chested need legitimate support. But believe it or not, that can come in the form of a bralette. While people might typically think of the item only as a pair of teeny-tiny lace triangles, there are actually a variety of other builds and silhouettes that also work for large-busted girls.
To determine just what those are, we enlisted the help of Jenny Altman, style and fit expert at I Love A Good, who offered pointers for how large-chested women can best find a bralette that works for them. For starters, it's important to keep several factors, like fabric, closure, and overall construction, in mind. She also adds that even if you don't feel a bralette will offer enough support, you can always wear one as a layering piece over your more supportive bra for an added bit of visual interest, while also doubling the support.
Ahead, five cute bralettes that work for large-chested ladies, along with tips for how to select the perfect one for you. Read on for our picks, take the plunge, and let us know how it goes.
The Bralette: Never Say Never Sweetie Soft Bra
Why It Works: This bralette's soft, stretchy lace and wide range of sizes make it a go-to. "This bra is comfort, support, and fashion in one," says Altman. "I usually recommend bralettes with a clasp in the back for large cup sizes, but this is my one exception."
One of the most important elements of a bralette for busty women is support under the bust. This particular bra has strong underbust seaming, as well as seaming throughout for great shaping. It may not have any wires, but it's still supportive, and it's stretchy enough to eliminate the need for an actual closure in the back.
Never Say Never, $55.00, available at Cosabella
The Bralette: Wolford Clair Bustier
Why It Works: Aside from major comfort, thanks to its silky-soft woven lace and tulle, this non-wired bra offers amazing coverage and adjustability.
"This soft bra has a rigid underbust and separation between the breasts," adds Altman. "You need that underbust support, as well as separation, so that there is no touching in the middle. Uniboob is the worst for looks, as well as for comfort!"
Wolford, $180.00, available at Wolford
The Bralette: Aerie Boho Bralette
Why It Works: This lace is just as soft and comfortable as a silkier variation, but it has major strength. You've got your wide band for sturdy underbust support, and it's also cotton-lined for extra comfort and smoothing power. It offers full coverage, which is key.
The reviews for this Aerie garment should speak volumes: "Just because you are bigger (size D or DD) doesn't mean that you can't enjoy this bra!...I can't believe how comfortable they are with the support, and that I didn't have to pay $80 for them."
Shop similar styles here.
The Bralette: Fortnight Lingerie Mira Long-Line Bra
Why It Works: "If you're looking for a stunning long-line soft bra that hugs curves, stays anchored, and gives serious oomph all with no wire, then this is the piece for you," says Altman. Its lace is deceivingly delicate, and the long-line silhouette is ultra sturdy, while still being soft on the skin.
Available up to size E, Journelle says this bra is great for petites and larger cup sizes alike — and you can't forget the magic of an adjustable strap. Wear tighter for an extra lift or looser for laid-back days.
FORTNIGHT, $98.00, available at Journelle
The Bralette: Wacoal Sport Wire Free Bra
Why It Works: Lace isn't the only option for wire-free bras — this is still a great alternative to your daily full-support bra, but it's practical and not overly showy. "Look for fabrics that are rigid, which offer support, versus something that’s barely there," explains Altman. "The lace triangles may look nice, but without rigidity, there is no strength."
This bra's racerback offers strong support and is even adjustable, which you don't see much in this shape. "The straps are not your main source of support — that comes from the band — but the straps do play backup," Altman says. And this one's available up to DD.
Wacoal, $48.00, available at Wacoal
The Bralette: Yandy Plus-Size Eyelash Lace Bralette
Why It Works: Sure, this one's got underwire, but that added support is vital when it comes to wearing a bra without actual padded cups. Combined with the hook fastening in the back, this super-sexy bra is still comfortable and supportive enough to wear all day, not just on special occasions. And, it's available up to size 4X — talk about a win, win.
Yandy, $23.95, available at YandyLike what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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