Traditionally, bras are defined as undergarments — as in, they're supposed to be worn under other garments. But this is 2016, people, and if you know us even a little bit, you know we don't follow the rules. Lingerie brands are all for breaking with tradition these days, too. At least, we think they are, judging by the bras they're turning out.
In all their lacey, strappy, colorful goodness, bralettes shouldn't be made to hide under blouses and chunky sweaters. Now, they're good-looking enough to be the star of the show, whether peeking out from underneath a skin-baring top, being worn on their own or layered ( u h-oh!) over a tee. And, what better time than when it's hot enough to fry an egg on the sidewalk to let your bra show loud and proud? Click on for 15 styles that lend themselves to doing just that.
The Neon Number
Combine a whimsical lace with an in-your-face neon hue, then throw it on under a sheer top to show it all off.
Eberjey Weekend Lovers Bralet, $63 $47.25, available at Eberjey.
The Retro Check
Take it back to another era with a gingham piece that's so comfy, you won't even remember you have it on.
& Other Stories Check Soft Bra, $29, available at & Other Stories.
The Athliesure Must-Have
Lively, a brand that aims to blur the lines of lingerie, active, and swim, says this is the best bra for when you feel like going braless, but can't (oh, and it looks good, too).
Lively Mesh Trim Bralette Lush Life, $35, available at Lively.
The Badass Minimalist
This one's made for peeking out from the armholes of a black muscle tee.
Lonely Edith Underwire Bra, $76.87, available at Lonely.
The Textured Top
With a bra this pretty, you'll want to let it shine through a halfway-unbuttoned top.
Huit Enchantee Demi Bra, $74 $56 available at Brooklyn Fox Lingerie.
The Back-Interest Bralette
This option not only has some seriously wild straps, but it still offers substantial support for bustier ladies.
Bluebella More Asteria Bra, $51.22, available at House of Fraser.
The Starry-Eyed Statement
Switch up your typical lace with a zig-zag, starry detail instead.
Mimi Holliday Starry Eyed Shoulder Bra, $90.81, available at Mimi Holliday.
The Next-Level Criss-Cross
Scoop-neck tanks are a must with a strap situation this legit.
Skivvies by For Love & Lemons Delicate Bondage Bralette, $92 $73, available at Azaleas.
The Red-Hot Bra
Splurge on one extra-special (and extra-sexy) hot-tamale bra, even if it's just for yourself.
Fleur of England Scarlet Boudoir Bra, $170, available at Fleur of England.
The Artsy Color Combo
Some color combinations are meant to be showcased, like this artful teal-meets-lavender variation.
Love Stories Hazel, $67.75, available at Love Stories.
The Sunshine Stunner
It's always sunny when you've got a bra this cheerful.
Toru and Naoko Marigold Bra, $55, available at Toru and Naoko.
The Amped-Up T-Shirt Bra
Take your T-shirt bra up a notch with some cutout straps that still offer the same support.
ThirdLove 24/7 Strappy T-shirt Bra, $76, available at ThirdLove.
The T-Back
Skip the sticky-boobs and try a triangle bralette with a delicate T-back detail under your next backless garment.
COS Middle Back Strap Print Bra, $39, available at COS.
The "I Woke Up Like This" Soft Cup
For lounging, no top is even necessary.
Heidi Klum Desert Mirage Soft Cup, $65, available at Heidi Klum.
The High-Neck Situation
Wear under a low-cut blazer for your next night out.
H&M Halterneck Mesh and Lace Bra, $24.99, available at H&M.
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